Research shows the potential of Dutch cattle breeds for sustainable, nature-inclusive agriculture.
Nature-inclusive dairy farming, where food production goes hand in hand with biodiversity and nature management, offers many opportunities for making the sector more sustainable. A recently completed research project looked at which type of cow would be the best fit for this type of agriculture, with a special focus on Dutch dual-purpose breeds such as the MRIJ, Friesian-Dutch cattle, and the Groninger Blaarkop. The study shows that Dutch dual-purpose breeds, although declining in numbers, can fit well within extensive, nature-inclusive farming. These breeds are often described by farmers as robust, self-reliant and good at utilising grass and roughage. Characteristics that fit well with the principles of nature-inclusive farming.
Wide variation in systems and breeds
A nationwide data analysis based on studbook-, milk control- and KringloopWijzerdata from 490 dairy farms with dual-purpose cows showed that these breeds are kept in a variety of farm systems. Animal performance varied per breed and farm type: although Holsteins scored the highest on milk production, the dual-purpose breeds performed better on other traits - such as fat and protein content and somatic cell count - in some situations. However, no breed proved to be the best on all traits. It was striking that many farmers use crossbreeding, combining desirable traits of different breeds. Only a small proportion of farmers still breed with completely purebred animals.
Robust cows that fit the system
Besides the data analysis, 31 livestock farmers actively participated in the study. They provided extensive information about their farms, and the researchers made farm visits to 15 farms to interview the farmers. On average, the participating farms were more extensive than mainstream dairy farming, with a strong focus on grazing, roughage utilisation and low concentrate feed use. A large proportion of these farms were also certified organic or biodynamic.
The farmers indicated that their ideal cow must be healthy and productive under varying conditions, must cope well with a variable roughage ration, and must provide good quality milk as well as meat. The use of grass and biodiverse pastures was considered essential. They also indicated that biodiversity often requires extra effort, which is not always financially rewarded.
Livestock farmers participating in the survey stressed the importance of robust, trouble-free animals that perform well on roughage and fit within an extensive management. They described their ideal cow as 'self-reliant', 'robust' and 'productive under varying conditions'. The dual-purpose breeds appeared to match these desires well in terms of traits.
Key role for animal breeding
The researchers stress that breeding can play a crucial role in developing cows that fit well in nature-inclusive systems. It is important to capture and measure traits such as robustness and forage utilisation. The current breeding goals partly match the wishes of nature-inclusive dairy farmers, but there is room for more customisation per breed and farm type.
Opportunities for breed conservation and biodiversity
The researchers conclude that there is no 'best breed' for nature-inclusive farming, but that it depends on the type of farm, the ration composition and the specific goals of the farmer. However, Dutch dual-purpose breeds do offer clear starting points for future-proof dairy farming, in which biodiversity and food production go hand in hand. Using dual-purpose breeds in nature-inclusive systems can give these breeds new perspective. To achieve this, cooperation between farmers, breeders and organisations is essential.
