The 75% Rule: Regulation or Hindrance? Bureaucracy Discourages

A project is the perfect opportunity to scrutinize existing rules and opinions. Take the current condition for the pasture premium: 

During an inspection at farms with a milking robot, at least 75% of the lactating cows must be in the pasture. Additionally, there is a requirement of at least 120 days of grazing for 6  hours per day. But how practical is that in reality?

For many dairy farmers, this feels like a straitjacket – especially for those who milk with a robot or respond to changing conditions. In this project, we address that tension. We explore alternatives to the 75% standard – for example, by looking at daily averages, flexible bandwidths, or a stepwise system. We also explore other forms of registration, such as working with more than 120 days but fewer hours per day. Because support for grazing does not grow with strict numbers, but with rules that fit the daily and dynamic farming practice.

Anyone who wants to contribute ideas about practical grazing is warmly invited to email us at info@robotweiden.nl.