Farmers will receive more time to decide whether to reduce their cattle herds in exchange for state subsidies. The subsidy scheme was originally set to close at the end of this month. However, the ministry has extended the deadline until the end of January 2027. Over the past few months, only 42 farmers applied for the program, reducing the national herd by 700 cows.
In a press release, the ministry stated that the extension aligns with the cabinet’s broader approach to nitrogen reduction. Former Agriculture Minister Femke Wiersma launched this extensive farming scheme in June. Current Minister Jaimi van Essen calculated earlier this year that the subsidy could shrink the national livestock population by 64,000 animals if farmers fully utilize the available budget.
Three-year compensation offered for shrinking herds
Dairy farmers who reduce their cow herds by 10 to 20 percent will receive a three-year financial allowance for every animal they give up. Authorities will permanently revoke the corresponding production rights required to keep those cows. The government will also provide direct financial compensation to cover the value of those cancelled rights.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
