Base de Datos de Proyectos de PDR

The GQS-BW is a comprehensive tool for self-monitoring and record keeping for agricultural enterprises. The use of the tool is encouraged and supported by the combined use of accredited advisory services through EAFRD support.

The federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg established the GQS-BW, an operational quality assurance scheme. It covers both the EU legal requirements for cross-compliance, such as statutory management requirements and good agricultural and environmental practices (e.g. regulation for the use of fertilizer, animal welfare, drugs use, etc.) as well as the requirements of the most known and diffused voluntary quality assurance protocols. The use of the tool is combined with EAFRD-funded farm advisory services.

The provision of advisory services in combination with GQS-BW toolkit aims at: improving the management of farm holdings, assessing their performance, identifying necessary improvements with respect to statutory management requirements and, eventually, minimizing control efforts. For this the scheme provides an operational framework which support farmers in meeting the demands of cross-compliance controls along with those of main voluntary quality assurance schemes (e.g. Eurepegap and QS).

After choosing an accredited advisor to support the implementation of the GQS system, the farmer applies for support (5 year-period max.). The GQS toolkit consists of 3 separate files including checklists, filing plans and forms. After the on-farm assessment carried out by the advisors, farmers receive a report stating the key issues identified and improvement actions. The report is the evidence against which EAFRD support is granted.

Advisory services are offered by 15 organisations for a total of around 50 accredited advisors. Between 2008 and 2012 a total of 527 farmers were supported. As a consequence farmers were able to prepare effectively for governmental on-site controls and certifications. Apart from improving the delivery of the advice, the combination of advisory services with the GQS system reduces the time needed for controls with respect to all minimum legal requirements and required documents.

Farmers evaluate very positively the implementation of a “self-control” procedure in combination with a recognised professional advisor. This effectively improves the detection of possible sources of error and risks. The use of the system also improves farmers’ responsibility towards their daily operations.

Federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg

Baden-Württenberg

Baden-Württemberg

299 528

149 429

https://www.lel-bw.de/pb/,Lde/Startseite/Markt+und+Ernaehrung+mit+Landesstelle/Qualitaetssicherung

Anke Gulz

Anke.Gulz@lel.bwl.de

German