Yes, and much more than you might imagine.
For decades, scrubland has been seen as an obstacle to extensive livestock farming. However, thanks to new research and the focus of projects such as LIFE Scrubsnet, we now know that proper management of scrubland can be an economic and ecological advantage for livestock farms.
Here we explain why scrubland can improve the profitability of your farm:
- Savings on feed: A well-preserved scrubland provides natural forage resources throughout the year, especially in times when grass is scarce. This reduces the need to buy feed or supplement the livestock’s diet, lowering operating costs.
- Lower fertiliser costs: The decomposition of organic matter in the scrubland enriches the soil naturally, improving its fertility and reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers. This not only saves money, but also improves the long-term health of the soil.
- Greater resilience to climate change: Scrubland acts as a natural sponge, improving water capture and retention. This protects the soil from erosion and reduces productivity losses in periods of drought, helping to maintain a stable basis for livestock farming.
- Access to agri-environmental aid: Good scrubland management practices can be recognised by public administrations through agri-environmental subsidies, aimed at promoting sustainable production models that are compatible with environmental conservation.
Do you want to know how to integrate scrubland into your livestock system without losing profitability?
Consult the LIFE Scrubsnet Livestock Management Protocol, a practical guide based on real experiences for more profitable and resilient livestock farming.
📩 Download it here 👉 https://lifescrubsnet.eu/project-material/
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