The Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC) requires Member States to identify areas where groundwaters have nitrate concentrations of more than 50 mg/l nitrate or are thought to be at risk of nitrate contamination. Areas associated with such groundwaters are to be designated as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) within which, Member States are required to establish Action Programmes in order to reduce and prevent further nitrate contamination
The Directive requires us to identify waters where nitrate levels exceed, or are likely to exceed, the levels set in the Directive. Any land draining to these waters must be designated as an NVZ and legally binding rules, known as Action Programmes, must be put in place. Four areas of Scotland were designated as NVZs in 2002-03: 
NVZ areas in Scotland
(click on the area name for a detailed parish map of designated areas)
1, Lower Nithsdale
2, Lothian and Borders
3, Strathmore and Fife
4, Moray, Aberdeenshire / Banff and Buchan
Further Information & Guidance
Information and guidance on all aspects of the Action Programme for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (Scotland) Regulations 2008 can be accessed via the link on the left hand column of this page.
*** NEW (15/05/2013) Amendments to the Action Programme for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones ***
NEW NVZ GUIDANCE AND NEWS
Any new guidance or news concerning NVZs will be published in the "Latest NVZ News and Guidance" section. Check back regularly to keep informed.