Keeping shepherded sheep flocks in Drenthe

Five sheep flocks with their shepherds are involved in this tradition. Belonging to every flock are assistant-shepherds and a large group of volunteers, performing all kinds of activities on behalf of the preservation of the flocks. Area managers, like the Drenthe Landscape, the Forestry Commission and private persons, let the flocks graze on their grounds. The provincial government of Drenthe and various municipalities in Drenthe conduct a policy that is directed at the preservation of the sheep flocks.

The shepherded sheep flocks of Drenthe fit into the agricultural system of the so-called ‘es’-villages (village on sandy, elevated soil). Moreover, the sheep were important suppliers of wool and meat. Ages ago already the farmers of a village collectively employed a shepherd to herd their sheep on the heath. In the evening the shepherd returned to the village with the sheep. Every year the manure from the folds was spread over the es-grounds. Rye was grown on these grounds, which was used for baking bread. After the arrival of chemical fertiliser at the beginning of the twentieth century there was no more need for sheep manure. By extractions the heath area became smaller. The number of flocks rapidly dropped. When their significant role in the agricultural system had phased-out, various foundations and associations started to endeavour for the safeguarding of sheep flocks. The role of sheep flocks in nature conservation was now more emphasised. Partly thanks to the commitment of various foundations and associations in the field of nature conservation, local communities and many volunteers, sheep flocks can be maintained.

2022-2024

• Draw attention to the role of sheep herds as an effective measure to maintain the typical heathland biotope through grazing and to support biodiversity.
• Creating awareness of the special Drenthe character of the herd on the heath, and the added value as cultural heritage for residents and visitors.
• Maintain good contact with local officials, 'go into the field' together, to strengthen knowledge and involvement.
• Use heritage status to encourage land managers to give grazing concessions in favor of traditional herds.
• Consultation with the Governement about an extra European contribution for recognized rare breeds of sheep.
• Have damage by wolfs compensated by participating in relevant committees and arranging realistic compensation.
• Stimulate the exchange of knowledge between the shepherds, part-time shepherds and volunteers. Also generate attention for the role of sheep herds in nature management via the shepherd training in Velp.
• Organizing educational activities at schools, sometimes in collaboration with herds, especially for children around 10 years of age.
• Organizing Lamb Days and Sheep Shearer Parties to involve the public in this form of cultural heritage.