Factsheet 5 Houtwal 2.0: Maximising biodiversity: Re-evaluating multifunctional planting schemes in dairy farming

Multifunctional hedgerows in the Achterhoek enhance biodiversity by providing food, shelter and nesting sites for insects, birds, mammals and soil organisms. Selected plant species such as hawthorn, gorse, wayfaring tree, dog rose, goat willow, hornbeam, hazel, wild service tree, silver birch and wild cherry support pollination, food production and corridor functions. These ecologically oriented hedgerows promote biodiversity, are tailored to climate change and environmental quality, and are supported by agricultural subsidies and collaboration with dairy farmers and the De Marke Agro-Innovation Centre.