Base de Datos de Proyectos de PDR
Eco-farm Development
Summary
This project funded the development of a farm which has been practising organic growing methods since 1999. The developments included the provision of tourist services to groups and individuals, with an exhibition and apiary being constructed.
Background
This farm is located in a Leader area. The local development strategy (LDS) of this territory sets out ten priority areas for economic development. One of these provides funding for starting an organic farm and ecotourism activities. This family-run farm has been practising organic farming methods since 1999 and has been operating as an open farm for professionals since 2004. Due to growing demand the farm aimed to diversify its activities by offering tourist services to groups and individuals.
Objective
This farm is multi-use space hosting research projects, interested professionals, individuals and groups and farm-to-school programs for local public schools. Due to the growing number of visitors, it was important to modernise the farm and meet infrastructure demands. The project aims to support the implementation of a new exhibition building, a new animal petting area and a new farm building for apiary activities.
Main activities
Key activities included: a) the construction of a 50sqm new agricultural exhibition building which aims to present the traditional farming activities and equipments; b) the opening of a farm animal petting area in order to educate children about farm animals and to offer a hands-on learning experience through guided tours; c) the construction of a 60sqm new apiary made of traditional materials and techniques in order to teach students about the theoretical knowledge of beekeeping.
Results & Benefits
Due to the new developments, the farm is able to: make children and young people aware of organic farming activities; serve as an in-door and out-door classroom and meeting space where people can exchange knowledge and learn new skills; provide space for tourist to enjoy fresh, homemade meals; provide space for anyone who appreciates the beauty of the territory. The project helps to diversify the farm’s activities while providing jobs for the whole family and keeping youth in the area.
Lessons learnt
The implementation of the project requires very strict and accurate administration. It is important to be prepared to deal with administrative issues, possibly hiring an experienced consultant assigned to the task. Only those projects should be started where the clear objectives are known, and the financial means are available in advance, because payment can be very slow and cumbersome.
Project location and other information
This farm is located in a Leader territory on the Souther Great Plain of Hungary.
Region
Csongrad
RDP Territory
Hungary
Total project cost (€)
145 213
EAFRD contribution (€)
66 798
Private contribution (€)
44 532
Project website
Contact name
Kálmán Héjja
Telephone
+36 62 221 582
Languages for contact
Hungarian
Original Language version
At a glance
Country
Hungary
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
01/03/2010
End Date:
30/09/2010
Theme / Measure:
Rural Quality of Life & Economic Diversification
Rural economic diversification
313. Encouragement of tourism activities
Keywords:
Organic farming, Leader, Local food, Eco-tourism, Environmental education
Last update
25/07/2012