The Dutch Society for the Protection of Birds (Vogelbescherming Nederland) is participating in a new pilot project that explores how farmers who wish to do more for meadow birds can be given greater scope to demonstrate their professional expertise—while also receiving fair compensation for it. Bernard de Jong of the organization explains why this is urgently needed to halt the decline of meadow bird populations.
The Netherlands has set an ambition to reach a population of 50,000 breeding pairs of black-tailed godwits by 2050—roughly double the current number. Farmers play an indispensable role in achieving this goal; after all, they manage a large portion of the landscape that serves as the godwits' habitat. Many farmers who are already committed to protecting meadow birds are reaching their limits. For this reason, the Dutch Society for the Protection of Birds (Vogelbescherming) is participating in the 'Meadow Bird-Friendly Farm Certification' pilot. In collaboration with partners including BoerenNatuur and seven agricultural collectives, we are exploring ways to better support and reward farmers who wish to increase their efforts for meadow birds. This pilot will run through 2029 and is funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN) as one of nine pilot projects exploring the future of agricultural nature management in the Netherlands. We must consider not only what meadow birds require, but also what farmers need in order to sustain the necessary conservation measures.
Delayed mowing
Bernard de Jong, a senior policy officer, explains why the Dutch Society for the Protection of Birds is taking part in this pilot. “Many farmers are already making a significant commitment to meadow birds by implementing extra measures, such as maintaining herb-rich grasslands, raising water levels, and timing mowing to better align with the breeding season. However, given the limited compensation currently provided, farmers can only dedicate a small portion of their land to this intensive type of management. They are compensated for individual measures on specific plots, but for species like the black-tailed godwit, it is far more effective if a farmer can tailor their entire farm operation to the needs of these birds. It is about the big picture: how can a farm be structured so that meadow birds have a place—a space where they can nest, find food, and safely raise their chicks? This places heavy demands on a farming operation. For instance, delaying mowing results in lower-quality grass, which in turn leads to a reduction in milk yield. Currently, this type of lost income is not compensated. It is therefore essential that farmers receive sufficient support to make these kinds of choices possible.”
What exactly are you investigating?
“We are looking into whether farmers who focus their operations heavily on meadow birds can be certified—a process that would include fair, long-term financial compensation. You can think of this certification as a form of recognition for these agricultural businesses. We are examining the necessary criteria, how to verify compliance, and what level of compensation would be appropriate. We are also exploring ways to give farmers more flexibility to apply their own knowledge and professional expertise; after all, no two farms are the same, and different situations require different approaches. In this way, we are working toward a farming model that is both better for meadow birds and viable for the farmers themselves. We are also looking at what farmers need to take this step—whether that be financial support, access to knowledge, guidance, or practical agreements.”
Is such a transition feasible for many farmers?
“That is precisely one of the questions we aim to answer with this pilot project. Some farmers have already been managing their land extensively for years, providing ample space for meadow birds. Others may have the desire to do so, but lack the financial flexibility or the right support schemes to make the necessary changes. By working alongside farmers to see what works, we hope to gain a better understanding of the conditions required to implement meadow bird conservation on a larger scale.”
When will the black-tailed godwit benefit from this?
“This pilot won’t lead to an increase in the black-tailed godwit population overnight, but it should clarify how we can support more farmers in creating the right conditions for these birds. In doing so, we are laying an important foundation for the recovery of the species.”
What do you ultimately hope to achieve?
“We hope to demonstrate that sound farming practices and the proper care of meadow birds can go hand in hand. Farmers have shown that they are genuinely committed to supporting these birds. If we provide better support and rewards for this dedication, it creates the scope to do even more for species like the black-tailed godwit and the common redshank. Therefore, we must consider not only what meadow birds require, but also what farmers need in order to sustain such measures. Ultimately, we aim for a situation where nature restoration is rewarding, farmers have a viable future, and meadow birds once again have more room to thrive. That represents a win for the birds, for the farmers, and for a beautiful, healthy countryside.”
Source: https://www.naturetoday.com/intl/nl/nature-reports/message/?msg=35988