700 farmers in Gipuzkoa to receive 550 euros annually for mountain maintenance

The Provincial Council allocates 500,000 euros to recognize and compensate the environmental work of the primary sector.

Hands of a farmer working the soil in a green landscape of Gipuzkoa.
IA

Hands of a farmer working the soil in a green landscape of Gipuzkoa.

The Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa has launched a new 500,000 euro aid program to compensate approximately 700 farmers for their essential work in maintaining the natural environment.

This initiative aims to recognize the ecosystem services provided by agricultural holdings in Gipuzkoa. According to the Provincial Council, the maintenance of meadows and forests carried out by these professionals benefits the entire community, even if it does not generate direct economic profit for the farmers.
The aid is aimed at the livestock, agricultural, and forestry subsectors. Eligibility requirements include a livestock density of between 0.4 and 1.25 LLU (Livestock Units) per hectare for livestock farmers, and registration in recognized quality systems for agricultural producers.
Experts have described the project as a pioneering initiative internationally due to its institutionalized nature. Beneficiaries have until June 30 to accept the proposal or request modifications through the registry provided by the Provincial Council.