EDF Structure
Our Story: Celebrating Generations of Dairy Passion in Europe!
EDF Foundation and History
European Dairy Farmers (EDF) e.V. stands as a community of forward-thinking dairy farmers. We provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and knowledge on an international scale, directly from farmer to farmer. EDF operates as a non-political, impartial, and independent organization, fueled by the progressive spirit of farmers. Our club conducts its activities primarily in English.
EDF owes its origins to two prominent German institutions: the German Agricultural Society (DLG) based in Frankfurt/Main, and the Thünen Institute (TI), formerly known as FAL (Federal Research Institute for Rural Areas, Forestry and Fisheries), situated in Braunschweig. In collaboration with esteemed European dairy farmers, EDF was founded in Stoneleigh, UK, in 1990.
Our Story: Celebrating Generations of Passion for Dairy in Europe
Mission
Empowering European Dairy Farmers to Thrive in a Dynamic Industry
Vision
We want to be a club of most innovative and progressive dairy enterpreneurs in Europe.
Values
EDF offers a unique platform for learning and inspiration through its network and CoP Benchmark.
Our Core Principles and Structures
The structure of EDF is farmer-centric, designed by farmers for farmers. A key requirement is that more than 70% of its members must be actively engaged in dairy farming. The remaining 30% can include advisors, scientists, agribusiness partners, and other interested in the dairy sector. The General Assembly serves as EDF’s highest decision-making body. During this assembly, the EDF president, two vice presidents, and members of the EDF council are elected. Each member of the EDF council represents their respective country and is responsible for addressing daily operational matters. Importantly, all elected representatives must be active farmers. EDF’s benchmarking activities receive support from the Scientific Team for Analysis and Research (EDF STAR), comprising scientists, advisors, and dairy experts from EDF member countries.
Achievements since the Foundation
Stay tuned for exciting updates and new developments from our network!
Our Statute
As a registered association (German Register of Associations, Frankfurt/Main, no. VR14121), we act according to our statute. You can download it here to have a closer look.
