Banca dati dei progetti dei PSR
Young farmers' organic production of fruits and vegetables
Summary
Thanks to the first installation measure under the EAFRD, this couple of young farmers from Portugal manage to successfully produce and sell directly a broad range of products, including edible flowers, by applying organic farming methods.
Background
The company was established in 2010 by two young farmers, and supported by the EAFRD plus a premium as young farmers. The farm, which has 4.85 ha in the Montijo area, produces over 60 varieties of organic products, from vegetables, flowers and fruits. The project is still under development and on-going, but in the future the transformation and sale of products in loco, and the development of leisure activities to promote healthy habits and environment conservation will be key.
Objective
The main objectives are to: i) create a new farm for the production and marketing of vegetables and fruit according to organic farming methods; and, ii) develop group activities on the farm based on the link between agriculture, healthy eating habits and environmental conservation.
Main activities
The main activities already undertaken are: i) the installation of a specific irrigation system (sprinkler or drop) and building a cold store; ii) in addition to the old ones, more machinery and equipment have been acquired and new solutions crafted to allow weed control and to limit the use of organic fertilizers. The products are sold directly to markets, restaurants and shops in Lisbon.
Results & Benefits
The main results achieved to date are: i) the creation of four full-time and one part-time jobs; ii) €30,000 of sales in the first year (2010), which is expected to reach up to €100,000 in the near future; iii) the introduction of new products, particularly edible flowers; iv) co-responsibility in marketing organic products, characterised by close links between producers and consumers; and, v)promotion of sustainable agricultural production methods.
Lessons learnt
Compared to conventional agriculture, organic farming can be more complex and expensive. Therefore, careful selection of crops (subject to soil type/climate) and the possibility to create associations with other producers (to avoid "forcing" certain cultures) are the two most important lessons learned. Then, it is recommended to have a wide range of products throughout the year and guarantee high quality to keep and acquire customers’ loyalty.
Project location and other information
Montijo, Lisbon urban area
Region
Lisboa e Vale do Tejo
RDP Territory
Mainland
Total project cost (€)
74 911
EAFRD contribution (€)
13 163
National contribution (€)
13 162
Private contribution (€)
48 586
Contact name
Liliana Correia
Telephone
00 351 918 352 81
Languages for contact
English, Portuguese
Original Language version
At a glance
Country
Portugal
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
€20 000 - €99 999
Start date:
01/08/2010
End Date:
31/08/2015
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Promoting knowledge and improving human potential
112. Setting up of young farmers
Keywords:
Organic farming, Innovation, Sustainable agriculture, Entrepreneurship, Young farmers
Last update
27/05/2013