This publication presents the findings of a study on the current state of pastures and hayfields in Ukraine, based on interviews with stakeholders — primarily farmers and land managers — as well as a cartographic analysis of specific case studies at the level of individual villages.

Since the end of the 20th century, the number of cattle and small ruminants grazing on open pastures in Ukraine has declined significantly, and with it, the demand for perennial forage lands, such as pastures and hayfields. Despite the regulated status of these lands under land legislation, various schemes—both entirely legal and involving certain abuses—are widespread for reclassifying them into economically more attractive categories, primarily arable land.

A GIS analysis of regional case studies from nine regions of Ukraine confirms a large-scale transformation of these lands, primarily into arable land. Other documented threats to pastures include encroachment by shrubs and urban development.

Stakeholder surveys and GIS analysis reveal certain differences between regions. For example, the south and center are characterized by intense pressure to convert pastures into arable land, while in the north and west, the encroachment of shrubs and forests on pastures is more widespread, occurring in parallel with the plowing up of pastures. As for the eastern region, since it has been most severely affected by the russian full-scale invasion, the issue of access to pastureland has come to the forefront. At the same time, regional analysis provides only superficial results, and the main differences lie at the level of individual communities, which are currently the primary managers of pasture and hayfield lands.

The problem of shrinking pasture and hayfield areas cannot be solved by bans or financial support alone. A comprehensive policy is needed that combines various tools for support and control.

The main findings of the study can be found in the publication.