Dutch offer cash to retire farmers

The Dutch government has set aside $1.2 billion to pay farmers to retire.

The fund aims to reduce nitrogen manure pollution.

The measure is open to micro, small and medium-sized livestock farms raising dairy cattle, pigs, chickens, turkeys, veal calves, dairy goats, rabbits, meat ducks and other cattle. 

Priority will be given to farms located in areas where nitrogen levels are high.

Eligible participants will receive direct grants covering between 100 and 110 per cent of eligible costs, providing a strong financial incentive for producers who decide to cease operations permanently. The programme will remain in force for five years.

I know some farmers who have moved to Canada because they were frustrated by changing environmental regulations mainly related to manure.