Interim assessment report: update 2021 of Marche region

In light of the progress of the Marche RDP, the report pays particular attention to several aspects.

It updates the evaluation questions starting from what was answered in the 2019 common evaluation survey, maintaining the structure for applications and investigating both the effects produced by RDP interventions and the development trajectories of farms supported by the programme.

Among the specific areas of analysis, the report focuses on extensive animal husbandry and the support of the RDP in marginal and/or more fragile areas (e.g. mountain areas and areas affected by seismic events). Furthermore, it analyses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on agricultural holdings.

Finally, the study presented in 2020 aimed at defining the estimation methodology for the indicator ‘total loads and surplus of nitrogen and phosphorus’ was resumed, with the aim of achieving the valorisation of the indicator in question.

Overall, the contribution to stimulating the dissemination of knowledge through training actions made significant progress from 2018 to 2020. At present, it is not yet possible to carry out substantive assessments of the establishment of long-term partnerships.

The investments financed are consistent with the objectives of modernisation and diversification of the regional agricultural sector. In particular, the main investments made by young people concerned the macro-area of competitiveness and the market.

The measures contributing to Focus Area 3A (contribution to improving the competitiveness of primary producers) have activated a substantial number of operations that can be financed, achieving a good capacity to commit the planned financial resources.

Among other findings related to the restoration and enhancement of biodiversity, it is shown that the area of the RDP that has a positive effect on biodiversity is 167 812 hectares or 36% of the regional agricultural area.

The area of the RDP that has a positive effect on water quality is 91 468 hectares or 19.6% of the regional agricultural area. The area of the RDP that has a positive effect on soil quality is 91 467 hectares or 19.6% of the regional agricultural area.

Delays have been identified at the start of operation 4.3.B, dedicated to infrastructure investments for water saving. The energy-saving measures under operation 4.2.B dedicated to this are completed only to a limited extent.

At the same time, the area under commitment contributing to the reduction of GHG emissions is 86 959 hectares or 18.6% of the regional agricultural area. 98% of this is associated with organic farming and only 2% with integrated farming, operation 10.1.B has not yet received any payment.

The forest areas contributing to carbon sequestration or conservation amount to 3 315 hectares and represent 1.08% of the total regional forest area.

In conclusion, analysis of the Marche LAGs reveals a strategic orientation focused on the development of employment through support for local businesses and production systems and the enhancement of the territory with a view to preserving and welcoming it.