Agricultural farmers in Europe are facing a multitude of challenges today: climate change, soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and economic pressure. However, there is hope – and it lies right beneath our feet. Adaptive Multi-Paddock (AMP) grazing, a regenerative grazing system that mimics the natural grazing patterns of wild herds, offers compelling answers to many of these challenges.
What exactly is AMP grazing?
AMP grazing uses many small parcels that are intensely grazed for only a short time before receiving a longer regeneration period. This method avoids selective overgrazing and ensures a rapid recovery of vegetation, resulting in ecological and economic benefits. In short: AMP grazing aims to mimic the natural dynamics of ecosystems [1].
Soil fertility and CO₂ storage
Investigations in several farms in the southeastern USA have shown that AMP management has significantly positive effects on the soil:
- AMP increases carbon storage in the soil by an average of 13% compared to conventional grazing, making a significant contribution to climate protection [1].
- The nitrogen content also increases significantly, which improves the nutrient supply to the plants and thus contributes to higher productivity [1].
- The soils showed improved structure, increased water retention capacity, and reduced nutrient loss, which mitigates erosion and flood risks [4].
Biodiversity as the Key to Resilience
AMP grazing has shown remarkable positive effects on biodiversity:
- Willows managed according to AMP principles exhibit a significantly higher diversity of plant species, which in turn creates habitats for numerous insect and bird species [4].
- Arthropods, including beneficial insects such as pollinators and natural pest controllers, are more numerous and diverse in AMP systems. At the same time, no increase in pest populations has been observed [3].
- The increased biodiversity enhances the resilience of ecosystems to stress factors such as extreme weather events and pest infestations [2].
A paradise for birds and insects
Birds and insects particularly benefit from AMP grazing:
- Research showed a significant increase in grassland birds, including rare species such as the Eastern Meadowlark. This is a clear indication of the quality of habitats created by AMP [2].
- The diversity of insects in the soils, on the plants, and even in the dung is significantly higher. These insects play a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter and in maintaining healthy soils [3].
Productivity and profitability
In addition to the ecological benefits, economic reasons also clearly support AMP grazing:
- Pastures under AMP management achieved up to 300% higher biomass production than conventionally grazed areas [4].
- Due to the higher nutrient efficiency and lower demand for external inputs such as fertilisers and pesticides, production costs decrease in the long term [1].
- The improved soil quality and water retention capacity reduce risks from extreme weather and promote long-term yield stability [4].
A holistic approach for Europe's farmers
For European farmers, the transition to AMP grazing offers an opportunity not only to sustainably improve their environment but also to become more economically successful and resilient to climate change. The integration of AMP grazing into existing farming systems could be a crucial step in making agriculture future-proof.
Conclusion
AMP-Grazing is not a passing trend, but a scientifically validated approach to sustainable and regenerative agriculture. It offers a practical solution to address many urgent challenges of our time. By restoring healthy soils, improving biodiversity, and achieving long-term higher profitability, AMP-Grazing provides European farmers with the opportunity to lead in sustainable agriculture.
Take the first step towards a more sustainable future – with AMP-Grazing.
Quellen:
[1] Mosier et al., Journal of Environmental Management (2021)
[2] McGraw et al., Ecosphere (2024)
[3] Schmid et al., Rangeland Ecology & Management (2024)
[4] Apfelbaum et al., Journal of Environmental Management (2022)
[5] Wang et al., Landscape Ecology (2021)