Evaluation of the 2014-2022 RDP sub-measure 7.6: preservation of steep slope viticulture in Saxony-Anhalt

The RDP sub-measure ‘Maintenance of steep-slope vineyards in the Saale-Unstrut wine-growing area in Saxony-Anhalt’ (M7.6) is a relatively small sub-measure which is limited to the clearly defined areas of steep-slope vineyards in Saxony-Anhalt – a total of around 130 hectares (ha). Similar funding offers have already been implemented for many years and financed by the EAFRD. The main objective of the sub-measure is to support the tourism development of the region by preserving steep-slope viticulture.

Qualitative information for the evaluation of the sub-measure was obtained in discussions with those responsible at the granting authority and the specialist department for viticulture (Office for Agriculture, Land Consolidation and Forestry South) and the responsible specialist department at the Ministry of Economics and Agriculture of Saxony-Anhalt. Quantitative data on the implementation of EAFRD funding was primarily obtained by analysing the EAFRD monitoring data (as of the end of 2022) and data on the evaluation of funding applications according to the project selection criteria (as at the end of 2021).

By the end of 2022, around three-quarters of the planned funds had been approved and about two-thirds disbursed, indicating a largely plan-consistent outflow. Application numbers remained broadly stable over the period. In 2023, not all applications could be approved for the first time because applications exceeded the available budget. Project selection criteria are assessed as clear and largely easy to objectify, covering tourism/regional development, nature conservation/biodiversity aspects and operational conditions, while also considering the urgency of need.

The evaluation concludes that the sub-measure clearly achieves its main objective of supporting tourism development through maintaining steep-slope vineyards. Funding is strongly concentrated on repairing vineyard walls (the dominant funding item), with 1 954 metres of walls/structures restored. Additionally, 2.56 ha of abandoned vineyards were restored and four vineyard houses were repaired. Projects are frequently located in preferred steep terraces (86%), near cultivated vineyards (88%) and in areas with heritage or nature protection status. This indicates a focus on sites with high public interest and visible landscape effects, with around 44% of beneficiaries linked to tourism offers. Secondary effects associated with the restoration of vineyard walls and the preservation of steep-slope viticulture relate to the preservation of biodiversity and erosion control both on the cultivated areas and in the valley below the vineyards.

The report notes continued renovation needs and sustained demand for support. However, by decision of the state government, support for steep-slope vineyards in the Saale-Unstrut region will not be continued as an independent sub-measure in the 2023-2027 funding period. Possible support measures to support viticulture have been transferred to the responsibility of the Local Action Groups (LAGs). While refurbishment of historic vineyard houses/cellars is considered compatible with LEADER objectives, the report views continuation of the core pillar (vineyard wall repair) via standard LEADER procedures as rather unfavourable, and recommends close monitoring of the effects of discontinuation and of LEADER’s actual contribution, with adjustments to funding instruments if needed.