Court Invalidates Parts of 'Red Zones' Nitrate Pollution Designation, Farmers Seek Recognition
The Higher Administrative Court (OVG) in Lüneburg has ruled parts of the 'red zones' designation for high nitrate pollution invalid, affecting farmers in the Heidekreis region. The Landvolk, the largest interest group for rural areas in the Heidekreis, seeks more appreciation for agriculture, planning security, and reduced bureaucracy. Meanwhile, the Bioland Federal Association demands rewards for environmental services provided by agriculture.
The OVG's ruling does not immediately impact current practices, and existing rules continue to apply. Farmers from the Heidekreis region, operating within 'red areas', are directly affected by this decision. The judgment is not final, and the Land can appeal, with a decision expected from the Federal Administrative Court within one to one and a half years.
The Düngeverordnung, a contentious issue, has been criticized by farmers and their associations for its excessive use of prohibitions and regulations. The ban on nitrogen-rich fertilizers ended on January 1, 2023, as per the Düngeverordnung. Last year, nationwide farmers' protests with tractor convoys demanded a sustainable reduction in bureaucracy, not the removal of the traffic light government. Their goal was a better agricultural policy.
The OVG's ruling has sparked discussions about the future of agricultural policy in the region. The Landvolk-Kreisverband Lüneburger Heide had hoped for the support of the CDU party in the Bundestag election on February 23, 2023, in the electoral district 35 Rotenburg I - Heidekreis. As the judgment is not yet final, all parties involved await the outcome of the potential appeal.
