Permanent grasslands on peat soils managed for dairy production and biodiversity

The management of permanent, species-rich grasslands is key to dairy grass production, while at the same time it is an important driver of biodiversity and the provision of ecosystem services. An integrated understanding of the effects of current practices along an intensive – extensive management gradient on herbage yield, grass quality and biodiversity on Dutch dairy farms is, however, still lacking. The combined effects of mowing intensity, stocking density and fertilization intensity (Land Use Intensity (LUI)) had a positive effect on dry matter and protein yield and a negative effect on plant species richness in the Alblasserwaard, our case study region. Farming at moderate management intensity reaching moderate plant diversity allows for adequate yield production while protecting biodiversity and enhancing ecosystem services outcomes. Highly species-rich grasslands with a unique plant and soil biodiversity are rare in this region and need to be protected.