Sustainability is becoming more important every year. Farmers and others who rely on a stable climate, healthy soil, and a balanced environment know how important environmental stewardship is to our livelihood and global food production. With this in mind, what steps can we take to make dairy farming more sustainable?

Here are some sustainable dairy farming practices that can help:

Grass-fed Grazing

Dairy cows that graze on pasture rather than being fed on concentrated feed have a more natural diet, fewer health problems and produce less methane. Grass-fed dairy farming also reduces the reliance on intensive grain production, which has a large environmental footprint.

Rotational Grazing

Rotational grazing or cell grazing, where cows are rotated between smaller grazing areas, increases yields, uses 100% of the pasture by avoiding selective grazing, and improves soil health and pasture regrowth. It also helps to sequester more carbon in the soil, further reducing the footprint of dairy farming.

Effective Waste Management

Manure can contribute to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions when not managed properly. Using manure to make biogas for energy is a good way of stopping these gases from going to waste. Farmers can also use manure as an organic fertiliser when stored correctly – DEFRA grants are available for improving slurry storage facilities on the farm.

Nutrient Management Plans

Having a nutrient management plan can help dairy farms to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Soil testing and analysis can show nitrogen levels and help farmers plan for future fertilisation without wasting or losing nutrients to the air or water.

ESUS Agri can help dairy farmers and others to manage their environmental footprint, reduce waste, keep livestock healthier and save money. We have over 28 years of experience in agricultural consultancy and are here to help – get in touch with our team of experts by calling us on 01398 392011 or email us at contact@esusagri.co.uk.