Friesian farmer Durk Breeuwsma receives the Golden Grutto 2026

Breeuwsma started an organic farming business three years ago, focusing on nature and meadow birds. He now manages an area in Sandfirden that has become a valuable habitat for meadow birds and has plans to further develop the area in the coming years. This success was made possible thanks to the Rijke Weide Vogelfonds and the Andla Fonds, which leased their land to Breeuwsma under favorable conditions. The soil is improved with natural minerals, compost, and rough stable manure, while a high water level and puddle marsh areas on the land contribute to a healthy habitat for meadow birds. Thanks to the measures Breeuwsma took on his land, the number of breeding pairs of lapwings has already increased spectacularly, and the number of black grouse has also risen. The herb-rich grassland attracts many insects and also provides habitat for species such as water rail and oystercatcher. Breeuwsma has also created small breeding islands for species like the common crane and kingfisher. His ...