In the Netherlands, with its diverse landscape of polders, forests, dunes, and river valleys, significant challenges can sometimes arise between humans and wildlife. One example is the growing conflict between farmers and wolves—especially in areas where farms border wilderness. Fortunately, there are solutions that not only protect livestock but also support the preservation of wild animal populations. One such solution is the wolf-proof fence, and to support Dutch farmers and livestock owners in building these fences, funding is available.

Why Wolf-Proof Fences Are Important

Wolves are impressive animals, but their return to the Netherlands also brings challenges—particularly for farmers and livestock owners whose livelihoods depend on their animals.
An effective way to prevent wolf attacks is the installation of wolf-proof fencing. These fences are made of durable materials such as metal or plastic and are often electrified to keep wolves at bay. This allows farmers to protect their livestock while still allowing wolves to inhabit their natural territory.

Subsidies for Wolf Fencing

Of course, installing such fences involves costs. Fortunately, several provinces now provide subsidies to support affected farmers. These subsidies can take various forms, such as financial grants, tax breaks, or discounts on the required materials.

To qualify for such support, certain criteria must be met, which are defined by the respective province—these may include the location of the fence, its size, and construction details.

How to Apply for Funding

Applying for subsidies may differ by region, but typically involves the following steps:

Research: Farmers must first check what subsidies are available and what the specific requirements are.

Planning: Next, they should plan how the fence will be constructed, what materials are needed, and what the costs will be. To simplify these calculations, an obligation-free quote an be requested from Nedlandic.

Application: Once the plan is complete, farmers can apply for the subsidy. This usually involves filling out forms and sending them to the relevant organization.

Approval: The organization will then review whether the plan meets the criteria. If everything is in order, the farmer will receive the funds to construct the fence.

Conclusion

Subsidies for wolf-proof fences are essential to ensure that farmers and livestock owners can protect their animals without harming wolves. With this kind of support, both people and wolves can continue to thrive together in the beautiful landscapes of the Netherlands.