Drenthe implements new environmental and livestock policies

The Province of Drenthe is implementing several measures to manage its rural environment, focusing on nitrogen reduction, livestock management, and wildlife protection.

As part of updates to the Environmental Ordinance, the province aims to reduce ammonia emissions from dairy farming by 30 percent by 2035 compared to 2019 levels. This target is part of the 'Future-Oriented Rural Area Drenthe' program. While the province sets the desired outcome, farmers will have the autonomy to choose their own methods, such as technical innovations or adjusting herd sizes.

To support the transition, Drenthe has allocated an additional 20 million euros to its voluntary cessation scheme for livestock farms. This brings the total subsidy ceiling for the Area-Oriented Termination Measure (MGB) to over 30 million euros, aimed at farmers located near Natura 2000 areas or stream valleys.

Additionally, the province is continuing a practical trial involving mobile wolf-proof wire fences for sheep farmers. Supported by an additional 1.29 million euros from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, the project will run until September 2028 to gather data on the effectiveness and maintenance of these barriers.