EIP Project Mountain Dairy Cattle

Small-scale dairy farming in mountain regions faces significant challenges. A major EIP project, "Mountain Dairy Farming," developed, comprehensively evaluated, and documented innovative barn conversion solutions specifically for small mountain farms. Furthermore, the project also explored alternative farm development strategies for those wishing to discontinue dairy farming in mountain regions. The project aims to make a significant contribution to supporting smallholder farms in disadvantaged areas and preserving the multifunctionality of mountain agriculture.

The project, led by the Austrian Chamber of Agriculture and the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein, involved BIO AUSTRIA, the regional chambers of agriculture, the Austrian Association for Agricultural Engineering and Biodiversity Conservation Union (ÖKL), the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Tirol-Milch, the Upper Styrian Dairy, and 42 working farms from mountainous regions. The aim was to find innovative structural solutions for dairy barns and forward-looking alternative farm development strategies for grassland farms in mountainous areas.

A total of 32 innovative barn conversion solutions for small dairy farms in mountainous regions were identified, developed, and documented as part of the project. In addition, an evaluation was conducted with regard to construction costs, animal welfare, emissions, and sustainability criteria. The results reveal tailored solutions for mountain farms facing structurally challenging and economically demanding situations. Many of the implemented and well-documented details and construction options will significantly support future barn planning.

Furthermore, the project also explored farm development strategies that could offer an economically viable alternative to grassland management when dairy farming in mountainous regions is discontinued. To this end, a survey was conducted on 10 farms undergoing conversion to grassland farming, documenting the before-and-after situation. The range of alternatives extended from mountain vegetable cultivation to mountain hay production for small animals.

The project results can be accessed via the project website . The two comprehensive advisory brochures ("Innovative Building on Mountains" - 124 color pages; "Alternatives to Dairy Farming" - 40 pages) are also available for free download on the project website. Printed copies of the brochures are available from the Austrian Chamber of Agriculture (Ms. Anna Schreiner: Tel. +43 1/53441-8533 or email), subject to postage costs.