Evaluation of Agro-Environmental Programmes - A Farm Level Analysis in Baden-Württemberg and Brandenburg

Abstract

Under the condition of significant changes in the framework of EU Agricultural Policy Agro-Environmental Programmes are evaluated in this paper. The MEKA-Programme of Baden-Württemberg and the KULAP-Programme of Brandenburg, both measures under the EU-Regulation VO (EWG) 2078/92 of 1992, are analysed using farm level Linear Programming models. One of the most important results is that both, the MEKA- and the KULAP-Program, have positive environmental effects. In addition they are also responsible for significant transfer payments which under unfavourable production conditions can reach up to 40 % of the farm level gross margins. Farm structure, indicated by production conditions, crops and major production areas, is responsible for the application to the above mentioned programmes as well as for the extent of positive environmental effects. Losses in production efficiency and additional income effects are the consequence of non-consideration of the programmes offered. With respect to the results of the model calculation it is suggested that agro-environmental measures become more goal oriented and consider as far as possible regional conditions. More general programmes should become a more flexible and allow for flexible and dynamic reactions to changing circumstances.