Farms with open and varied landscapes accommodate most plant and bird species. This is stated in a new report from Norrmejerier.
– The report shows that milk production where cows are allowed to graze in fields with varied landscapes benefits many plants and animals. If we are to slow down the climate crisis and safeguard biological diversity, we must ensure that the agricultural landscapes are kept open, Anna-Karin Karlsson, Norrmejerier’s sustainability director, says in a press release.
In order to increase knowledge about the biological diversity Norrmejerier has commissioned the environmental consulting company Ecogain to take stock of the flora and fauna on eight of its farms in Norrbotten, Västerbotten, Jämtland and Jämtland. Västernorrland County. The results show that the species richness is greatest on natural pastures that have not been plowed or fertilized. Up to 54 different plant species and 41 different bird species were identified on these soils, compared with overgrown areas that only housed about twenty plant species.
The management of roadsides and ditches as well as the proximity to lakes and other water also have a positive effect on species richness. In environments with open ditches and watercourses, such as pastures that provide feed for grazing cows, a remarkably large diversity of birds was discovered.
– A large biodiversity can slow down the effects of the climate crisis. Our dairy farmers keep the landscapes open and also contribute to a long-term sustainable and vibrant Norrland by creating jobs and maintaining the domestic food supply, Anna-Karin Karlsson says.
The report “Normejerier & biological diversity. A knowledge base about plants and birds on Norrland’s dairy farms” is part of Norrmejerier’s sustainability program that aims to meet the UN’s global sustainability goals. Read more HERE