Policy Text:
To ensure that existing and future application and handling and storage of commercial fertilizer do not become or cease to be a significant drinking water threat where these activities are or would be a significant threat, these activities shall be designated for the purpose of Section 58 of the Clean Water Act, 2006 and a Risk Management Plan shall be required in the following areas and for the following activities:
a. Existing:
i. Application;
i. In Wellhead Protection Areas A and B where the vulnerability is equal to ten (10);
ii. In Intake Protection Zone One (1);
In Wellhead Protection Area E where the vulnerability is equal to nine (9);
iii. Where a Nitrate Issue has been identified, in all Issue Contributing Areas where the vulnerability is greater than or is equal to six (6).
ii. Handling and Storage;
i. In Wellhead Protection Area B, where the vulnerability is equal to ten (10);
ii. Where a Nitrate Issue has been identified, all Issue Contributing Areas except Wellhead Protection Area A where the vulnerability is greater than or equal to six (6).
b. Future:
i. Application;
i. In Wellhead Protection Areas A and B where the vulnerability is equal to ten (10);
ii. In Intake Protection Zone One (1);
In Wellhead Protection Area E where the vulnerability is equal to nine (9);
iii. Where a Nitrate Issue has been identified, in all Issue Contributing Areas where the vulnerability is greater than or is equal to six (6).
ii. Handling and Storage;
i. In Wellhead Protection Area B, where the vulnerability is equal to ten (10);
ii. Where a Nitrate Issue has been identified, in all Issue Contributing Areas except Wellhead Protection Area A where the vulnerability is greater than or equal to six (6).
For the application of commercial fertilizer, the Risk Management Plan shall include, as a minimum, measures to ensure application rate, timing and location are appropriate for uptake of nitrogen on an annual basis and that reduce potential for surface water run-off and increase groundwater infiltration.
For the handling and storage of commercial fertilizer, the Risk Management Plan shall include, as a minimum, measures to reduce the likelihood of spills and leaks and contain and respond to spills.