Royal A-ware is strengthening its Dairy Academy knowledge platform in the Netherlands with a new strategic knowledge partner. With effect from 1 June, the environmental and agricultural research agency Dumea has entered into a multi-year partnership with Dairy Academy Netherlands. The environmental and agricultural research agency is thus one of Dairy Academy’s 11 knowledge partners, sharing knowledge with Royal A-ware’s affiliated dairy farmers in the Netherlands through workshops.
Using data to drive sustainability and higher returns
Dumea co-owner Remco Woertman: ‘By analysing land, soil, crops, manure and water, we can provide every dairy farmer with data to optimise soil and crop quality and extract more milk from forage.’ Co-owner Dumea Niek Hesselink adds: ‘We translate the research results into a clear and concise report that a dairy farmer can put to use immediately. No matter how unique or specific the question may be. We simply adapt the research method accordingly.’
Royal A-ware believes it is important that the dairy farmers with whom it works can keep pace with developments in the sector. Dairy Academy was established to support them. Dairy Academy brings dairy farmers together to learn from knowledge partners and from one another. Royal A-ware COO Klaas de Jong on the new partnership: ‘Based on soil and crop analyses, Dumea can advise our dairy farmers on land fertilisation, improving feed value for cows and working more sustainably. This advice can contribute to greater efficiency and a healthier, more profitable dairy farm.’
Knowledge sharing via workshops and the Oenkerk Demonstration Farm
Dumea’s first workshop is scheduled for this autumn as part of the Dairy Academy programme. Anneke Jorritsma-van der Zijl, Manager of Dairy Academy Netherlands: ‘Knowledge sharing on optimising soil and crops is an essential part of the Dairy Academy’s workshop programme. We are organising the workshop at one of our dairy farms. In addition to theoretical knowledge, Dumea shares tips that can be applied directly in daily practice.’
