Improved fertilizer recommendations and the replacement of fertilizers by manure have led to a 30 per cent reduction in fertilizer use over recent years. In 1998, the Netherlands introduced a minerals accounting system. Livestock farms over a certain density are required to register the nitrogen and phosphate input used in fertilizers and animal feeds, and the nutrient output in the form of products and manure. A levy is applied on nutrient losses greater than the allowable standard. Apart from the levy, the accounting system is similar to Manitoba's Manure Management Plan requirements for large-scale livestock producers.
Nutrient management requires careful planning every year to prevent environmental problems.
Correcting excessive nutrient application after environmental damage has occurred is very expensive and difficult. Denmark Denmark is one-fifth the size of Manitoba but produces approximately the same number of hogs as all of Canada.