Dutch agriculture – dairying in particular – will be the focus for the European Network of Agricultural Journalists’ first press trip of 2023.
Taking place from March 23-26, the visit to the Netherlands marks the return of ENAJ’s popular low-budget press trip programme, following its suspension during the pandemic.
“Our colleagues in the Dutch Guild of Agricultural Journalists, NVLJ, have put together a programme that promises to give participants a clear insight into the political and social pressures facing agriculture in the Netherlands,” says Adrian Bell, the Guild’s ENAJ representative.
“The radical interventions and proposals for emissions reductions in the sector, put forward by the Dutch government, have prompted considerable farmer disquiet.
“NVLJ says the press trip will demonstrate emission control innovation in the dairy sector – approaches that have measurable positive effects from an environmental perspective, without strangling the producers and the industry.”
Meetings with farmers, policy makers, researchers, scientists and other stakeholders will allow participants – no more than 25 – to come away with a detailed grasp of the situation. Visit venues will include the Dairy Campus, part of Wageningen University; the Lely Customer Centre; and three farms, including a supplier to dairy co-operative Friesland Campina and a customer of Dutch feed co-operative Royal Agrifirm.
In keeping with the low-budget philosophy, the participation fee is €185 (£165), which includes three nights’ bed and breakfast, meals and transportation. Travel to and from the Netherlands is not included.
There is a maximum of two participants from each ENAJ member country. BGAJ members with an interest in the trip should send an email to Adrian Bell (Adrian.bell@agromavens.com), before February 17.
