Danish Dairy Farmers Face Sudden End to Stocking Rate Derogation
Source: The DairyNews
In a sudden policy shift, the Danish government has announced that it will not extend the derogation allowing dairy farmers a maximum stocking rate of 230 kg of nitrogen per hectare. This derogation will expire on July 31, 2024, as stated by the National Association of Danish Milk Producers, catching the agricultural community off guard after 22 years of implementation.
The Danish Ministry of Environment issued a press release on April 10, revealing the decision without prior consultation with farmer organizations, providing just over three months for the sector to adjust. Typically, transitions of this nature are phased in over two to four years to mitigate the impact on farmers, but this abrupt change offers no such grace period.
Minister Magnus Heunicke cited the need to reduce nitrogen emissions into Danish inland waters as the reason for not seeking an extension from the European Commission. This move aligns with tighter controls observed in other EU countries, though usually with more notice and preparation time allowed.
The unexpected revocation of the derogation is anticipated to impose significant burdens on Danish dairy farmers, who will now need to acquire 20-25% more land to comply with the new maximum stocking rate of 170 kg N per hectare. This requirement is to ensure adequate land for spreading manure and slurry under the new regulatory framework.
Additionally, industry stakeholders argue that the previous measures taken under the 230 kg N/ha derogation—such as maintaining a minimum of 80% grassland—had already effectively mitigated some environmental impacts. They contend that the new changes could paradoxically lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions due to more extensive transportation of manure and the need for additional fertilizer application.
Minister Magnus Heunicke cited the need to reduce nitrogen emissions into Danish inland waters as the reason for not seeking an extension from the European Commission. This move aligns with tighter controls observed in other EU countries, though usually with more notice and preparation time allowed.
The unexpected revocation of the derogation is anticipated to impose significant burdens on Danish dairy farmers, who will now need to acquire 20-25% more land to comply with the new maximum stocking rate of 170 kg N per hectare. This requirement is to ensure adequate land for spreading manure and slurry under the new regulatory framework.
Additionally, industry stakeholders argue that the previous measures taken under the 230 kg N/ha derogation—such as maintaining a minimum of 80% grassland—had already effectively mitigated some environmental impacts. They contend that the new changes could paradoxically lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions due to more extensive transportation of manure and the need for additional fertilizer application.
