EAD Announces 2024 Grazing Season In Abu Dhabi To Boost Biodiversity
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has set the dates for the 2024 grazing season, spanning from May 15 to October 15. This initiative is aimed at fostering the recovery of vegetation and supporting the sustainability of biodiversity in the region. The establishment of a designated grazing period is a strategic move to allow natural regeneration of pastures, ensuring their availability for future generations.
This development falls within the Executive Regulations of Law No. (11) of 2020 concerning the regulation of grazing in Abu Dhabi. The regulations, issued under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of EAD, designate EAD as the authoritative body for environmental affairs in Abu Dhabi. The law's primary objective is to regulate grazing activities, safeguard natural pastures, and promote sustainable traditional practices through coordination with relevant authorities.
To regulate grazing activities effectively, EAD is responsible for issuing licenses to eligible livestock owners and breeders in Abu Dhabi. Applicants must be UAE citizens, at least 21 years old, and possess a valid livestock inventory certificate approved by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA). Upon meeting these requirements and paying the application fees, individuals can apply for a grazing license through EAD.
License holders are permitted to graze in designated open wild areas, maintaining a distance of 2 km from reserves, forests, residential, military, petroleum and private areas, as well as all prohibited roads and places. They are also required to comply with environmental regulations, such as avoiding the introduction of exotic species or harmful substances into grazing areas and adhering to specified grazing periods.
Furthermore, licensees must not engage in activities that could damage local biodiversity or the environment within grazing areas. This includes prohibitions on uprooting or destroying pasture plants and using vehicles or machinery that could affect vegetation cover. Transferring grazing licenses to others is also not allowed.
Applications for a grazing license can be made through EAD's website by selecting the "Knowledge Centre" followed by "Resources," where the "Grazing License Application Form" is available for download. After submitting the required documents via email to [email protected] and paying a fee of AED 250, applicants will receive an electronic copy of their grazing license.
This systematic approach to regulating grazing activities underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices. By setting clear guidelines and requirements for grazing licenses, EAD aims to protect natural habitats and ensure the longevity of pasture resources for generations to come.
With inputs from WAM
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