Goal grazing already achieved

The percentage of dairy farms grazing cows rose again in 2018. Of all Dutch dairy farms, 82% let the cows walk outside. That is the highest percentage since 2011.

The sector has been promoting outdoor grazing since 2012. This now seems to be paying off. Initially, the percentage still decreased (2012), but that trend has reversed over the past 4 years.

The percentage came out last year at 78%, meaning it is up 4% this year. The increase is mainly caused by new pastures. This year there have been more dairy farmers who have let their cows graze outside. 

Grazing Agreement
The 'Grazing Agreement' initiative was established in 2012 to encourage outdoor grazing. It is a collaboration of 82 companies and institutions involved in the sector. Various initiatives of the covenant include: the logo for meadow milk and an extra premium for meadow milk.

Tim Roetman

Tim Roetman has been working as a junior editor at livestock farming since November 2018 Boerenbusiness† He mainly writes about (price) developments in the pig and dairy market.

t.roetman@boerenbusiness. Nl

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