Sometimes wild animals cause damage to crops or livestock. This is called wildlife damage. The Province of Drenthe has updated the rules for compensation for wildlife damage. The new rules apply from November 1, 2025.
Adjustment better aligned with practice
The main change concerns damage to crops on nature reserves. Until now, farmers could not receive compensation for lands with restrictions on agricultural use. New court rulings clarify that this is no longer allowed. Farmers on such plots can now apply for compensation. However, the damage calculation takes into account the lower yield these lands often have.
Farmers now have three working days to apply for an environmental permit to combat the damage, instead of only the day the damage is discovered. Also, the requirements for low-productive crops, such as clover and grassland, have become more flexible.
Preventing damage
Farmers are responsible for preventing or limiting wildlife damage. To qualify for compensation, taking non-lethal preventive measures is usually required.
Animal owners currently receive compensation for damage caused by wolves, even if there is no wolf-proof fence. This will remain the case.
More information
Farmers and other land users can find more information or submit an application at BIJ12: www.bij12.nl/onderwerpen/faunaschade (links to another website).
