The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced that the 2024 grazing season will run from May 15 to October 15. This initiative aims to regulate grazing activities to protect pastures and promote sustainable grazing practices in the region.
Context and Goals of Grazing Regulations
The EAD introduced a regulated grazing season to enable natural regeneration of pastures, ensuring their availability for future generations. This initiative is part of the Executive Regulations under Law No. (11) of 2020 concerning grazing regulation in Abu Dhabi. The primary goal is to preserve the local ecosystem while supporting the region’s agricultural economy.
Process and Criteria for Obtaining a Grazing License
To qualify for a grazing license, applicants must be nationals of the United Arab Emirates, over the age of 21, and possess a valid livestock inventory certificate approved by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA). They must also adhere to various environmental requirements and maintain a distance of two kilometers from reserves, forests, residential areas, military zones, oil fields, and private properties.
Guidelines and Restrictions for Responsible Grazing
License holders are required to avoid introducing exotic plants, animals, or harmful substances into grazing areas. They must not damage biodiversity or harm the local environment. Furthermore, they are obligated to observe grazing suspension periods determined by the EAD and refrain from using vehicles or machinery in ways that could affect plant cover.
In summary, the measures implemented by the EAD for the 2024 grazing season are crucial for the preservation of pastures and the promotion of sustainable grazing practices. These efforts contribute to environmental protection and the sustainability of natural resources in the region.
By adopting these new rules, Abu Dhabi demonstrates its commitment to a more sustainable and harmonious future with nature, allowing for the coexistence of pastoral economy and the preservation of natural resources.
