SAPARD MEASURE 3.3

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION METHODS DESIGNED TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTAIN THE COUNTRYSIDE

Sub-measure B: Preservation of biodiversity through traditional agricultural practices

Grassland ecosystems are an important component of natural resources. They represent an important group of habitats, with an inestimable value for diversification of plants and other organisms.

Many types of grassland are affected by agriculture, resulting in a decrease of biodiversity in the ecosystems. For a sustainable preservation and utilization of grasslands it is necessary to develop special management plans that should contain specific management, including optimal harvesting of hay fields, optimal utilization of pastures during the grazing period, animals density, transport, etc.

The natural grasslands from hilly areas (300-800m) represent a survival of European importance, since the majority of such mid-altitude flower-rich pastures have been lost elsewhere in Europe. The botanical diversity of these areas is exceptional – more than 1000 plant types have been identified in the area studied under the pilot programme. These meadows and pastures are very vulnerable to abandonment and to intensification/fertilisation, either of which would rapidly damage the diversity of flora and associated flora. 

Upon accession to the EU, Romania shall implement a National Agri-environment Programme as part of the acquis communautaire implementation. Measure 3.3 is a pilot action that contributes to the elaboration of National Agro-Environment Program.

Measure 3.3 sub-measure B2

This sub-measure encourages the maintenance of traditional farming methods to promote the conservation of biodiversity in the semi-natural habitats of the meadows and pastures of the Carpathian mountain and the intra-Carpathian hills, specifically by

• Pastures - ensuring rational utilization; 0.3-0.5 livestock units/ha; avoiding erosion through re-seeding with indigenous species, preventing soil acidification through leaving 20 % of pastures ungrazed for a period of one year, in rotation, no fertilization with mineral fertilizers and no application of pesticides or insecticides
• Meadows - maintain by mowing, at least once a year but not before 15 June; no fertilization with mineral fertilizers and no application of pesticides or insecticides.

Expected Impact

It is expected that the implementation of these actions will preserve the nature value and traditional mountain landscapes of the Carpathian mountain and intra-Carpathian hills, with positive benefits for both biodiversity and tourism.

Payments rates: 95 €/ha/year