Feasibility of Permanent Grassland Management Options Across Europe

This policy brief evaluates the feasibility of eleven permanent grassland management options across five European biogeographic regions, assessing implementation ease, uptake potential, and ecosystem service delivery. Based on input from 62 experts and 50 farmers via a modified Delphi method, findings show rotational grazing as most feasible in the Mediterranean, while sward renewal and virtual fencing rank lowest, especially in the Alpine region. Farmers face barriers including low awareness and insufficient evidence for new technologies. Experts and farmers alike stress the need for financial compensation when productivity is reduced for ecosystem benefits. Recommendations include periodic technology reviews, field trials, training, improved rural ICT access, and upfront grants for precision tools. The assessment supports evidence-based policy development to enhance sustainable grassland management through knowledge, training, and incentives.