A European Commission staff working document published on 23 July 2026 evaluates Lithuania's implementation of the Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC) for the 2020-2023 period, finding that while surface water nitrate levels remain low, groundwater quality is deteriorating and coastal eutrophication is widespread. The document recommends reinforcing the national action programme, aligning it with the Water Framework Directive, and introducing phosphorus fertilisation limits.
The assessment covers agricultural pressures, water quality monitoring, and the effectiveness of Lithuania's whole-territory action programme, which has been in place since 2003 without designated Nitrate Vulnerable Zones. Mandatory measures are embedded in national regulations rather than a standalone programme. The monitoring network density stands at one station per 1,000 km² for groundwater and five stations per 1,000 km² for surface freshwater.
Key findings show that 4.5% of groundwater monitoring points exceed the 50 mg/l nitrate limit, and 42.4% show increasing trends. No surface freshwater points exceed 50 mg/l, but 29.6% are eutrophic or at risk. All saline water monitoring points are eutrophic. Inspections revealed high non-compliance: 732 out of 1,230 checks found inadequate storage capacity, and 55 out of 145 checks found violations of land application periods.
The document recommends reviewing and reinforcing measures to address high and increasing nitrate concentrations in groundwater and surface waters, as well as eutrophication of coastal and marine waters. It calls for better alignment of the Nitrates Action Programme with the Water Framework Directive and the 4th River Basin Management Plan. Potential introduction of phosphorus fertilisation limitations is suggested. Enhanced cooperation among agricultural, water, and other competent authorities, as well as with stakeholders, is urged. The Commission also advises simplifying measures without compromising results, based on the Nitrates Directive evaluation, and promoting dissemination of best practices, scientific knowledge, and innovation to improve water quality forecasts and climate resilience.
Lithuanian farmers face potential new restrictions on phosphorus fertilisation and stricter enforcement of storage and application rules, increasing compliance costs. National authorities must strengthen monitoring and coordination across sectors. Environmental groups may welcome tighter measures to address groundwater degradation and coastal eutrophication. The agricultural sector could benefit from simplified rules and better knowledge transfer, but may resist additional regulatory burdens. The Commission's recommendations are non-binding but may influence future infringement proceedings or funding conditions under the Common Agricultural Policy.