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The Netherlands must distribute cap money more fairly
The National Strategic Plan (NSP), the Dutch implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), was finally approved today (Tuesday 13 December) by the European Commission. That is just in time, because the new CAP will enter into force from 1 January 2023. The Commission did want the Netherlands to adjust the NSP. The most obvious change is that direct payments must be distributed differently based on company size.
For many farmers, direct payments from the CAP represent an important part of their income. Therefore, a fair distribution of the financial support is one of the most important economic objectives of the NSP. "The Netherlands strives for a redistribution of money from large to small and medium-sized agricultural companies", the Commission writes in the summary of the NSP. "Farmers therefore receive a higher hectare premium up to the first 40 hectares." Furthermore, farmers must be enabled to respond to changing circumstances and changing market demand. According to the Commission, about 8% of farms receive support for investments for modernization in the NSP.
Nature
The nitrogen discussion has not passed Brussels by either. "The NSP specifically focuses on approximately 15.000 hectares around Natura 2000 areas. The aim is to reduce ammonia emissions and improve water availability, with positive results for the conservation of biodiversity in those nature areas," the Commission writes.
The much-discussed buffer zones are also included in the assessment. The Commission leaves room for the formulation of the requirements for these buffer zones in the summary of the NSP. Literally, the Commission writes: 'In buffer zones along water courses, the use of all types of fertilizers and plant protection products will be restricted'. Loosely translated it means that 'In buffer zones along watercourses, the use of all types of fertilizers and plant protection products is limited', and is therefore not prohibited by definition, as is now being predicted by LNV.
A concrete number is attached to the growth of the area of organic agriculture. That should grow to 109.300 hectares. According to Statistics Netherlands figures, just over 2022 hectares were farmed organically in 80.000. Farmers are also encouraged to create 36.000 hectares of new grassland with elements suitable for meadow birds. In addition, €174 million will be made available in the NSP for raising the water level in peat meadow areas.
Knowledge voucher
In addition to income support, farmers also receive a knowledge voucher worth €1.750. Around 55.000 people can benefit from advice, training or knowledge exchange, or participate in European Innovation Partnership study groups supported by the CAP and related to environmental or climate-related achievements. In addition, 2.100 advisors receive support from the NSP to make innovations available to farmers.
Dutch agriculture needs young farmers. That is why an attempt is being made in the NSP to bind young people without an agricultural background to the sector. About 3.000 young farmers will be supported in the NSP in their plans to set up their own farm.
The summary of the NSP is here to find.
Jurphaas Lugtenburg
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