At Lely, we are always looking for ways to support a sustainable and profitable future for dairy farming. That’s why we’re excited to share our newest initiative: a partnership with ReGeNL, a Dutch consortium dedicated to advancing regenerative agriculture.

This collaboration is all about exploring new, data-driven ways to care for our soil, climate, water, and biodiversity, while also helping dairy farmers strengthen their long-term earning potential.

 What is regenerative agriculture?

Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming that goes beyond sustainability. It actively improves the health of the ecosystem through practices that build soil fertility, increase biodiversity, and enhance natural water cycles. For dairy farmers, this can mean healthier herds, lower input costs, and a more resilient business.

 Lely’s role: research projects for the Farm of the Future

As part of this collaboration, Lely is leading two research projects within ReGeNL. These projects align closely with our Farm of the Future vision and will explore:

• How regenerative practices can work in dairy farming

• Their impact on biodiversity, climate, water, and soil health

• The business case for farmers adopting these methods

We started by inviting Lely farmers to join a pilot program. After an initial information session, 42 farmers have already signed up and will begin implementing regenerative practices over the next four years.

 How does it work?

Each participating farm starts with a baseline measurement, tracking soil health, organic matter, water retention, and more. From there, farmers receive training and personalized plans to help them adopt regenerative methods in a way that fits their operations.

Starting this summer, on-farm visits and coaching will help farmers monitor progress and refine their strategies.

 Why this matters

This isn’t just research. It’s hands-on learning with real impact. Together with ReGeNL and partners like Wageningen University & Research, we’re creating a roadmap for regenerative dairy farming in the Netherlands, and potentially around the world.

By gaining practical experience and sharing learnings, Lely aims to equip farmers with the knowledge, tools, and technology needed to embrace more climate-smart and economically viable practices.

 Want to learn more?

To read more about the ReGeNL consortium (in Dutch), visit: www.regenl.nl