The Consistory of La Orotava recalls that the development of agricultural activity entails the use of all kinds of fertilizers to obtain production, which is sometimes used for own consumption, and in others it has a professional exploitation character, destined for commercial sale. “The problem arises as a result of the inconvenience generated by the use of these organic fertilizers, especially at certain times of the year. The neighborhood complaints manifest when these lands used for cultivation are near residential areas, either due to the expansion of urban centers or by building on rural land. Hence the need to create the ordinance. The infractions can be minor, serious and very serious with economic sanctions depending on the type of non-compliance, so they range from 100 to 3,000 euros“, details the local government in a statement.
This document regulates the storage, deposit and incorporation of organic fertilizers (waste of animal or plant origin) on farms, excluding domestic pens. It is established that the stacking and subsequent use of fertilizers of agricultural origin may only be carried out on farms, for their burial with a plowing or similar task. Nevertheless, yes, storage is allowed in other farms different from those that are going to be used the same, in order to facilitate the logistics of the distribution of materials. But this action is only allowed in places where there is no risk of contamination by surface runoff and in the case of products that can form piles.
The deadline for the use of chicken manure on a farm is reduced to 24 hours
The manure must be previously treated before application to the ground and their stacking may not be extended beyond 48 hours. Chicken manure should be used within 24 hours. In both cases, those responsible for the crops must take into account that weather conditions are favorable for its immediate incorporation into the land and its subsequent burial. If land application is delayed, the material should be covered with an impermeable cover. In case of prolonged piling of organic matter to produce compost, this must be done in compliance with the controlled aerobic and thermophilic biological transformation processes without causing bad odors or putrefaction.
Farmers in the municipality must be aware of the prohibitions contained in this ordinance. The Local Police or the authorized Technical Service may stop the application or handling of organic fertilizers when inconvenience to the population is appreciated. The council plans to carry out information campaigns on this ordinance and the proper use of organic fertilizers.
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