Natagriwal is about to launch a collective Agri-Environment-Climate Scheme (AECM), an unprecedented initiative in Wallonia, through two pilot projects led by committed groups of farmers. The objective is clear: to reach 5% of habitat features favourable to the hen harrier across two agricultural areas of 1,500 to 2,000 hectares each.
These pilot projects aim to demonstrate that a collective approach can be an effective lever to overcome barriers to the development of AECM. Both groups will benefit from tailored support, a dedicated budget for collective actions, and an additional financial incentive once the 5% target is achieved. The programme will run for a five-year period.
Depending on the results, this experience could help shape the future Walloon CAP, by inspiring new tools to support collective agri-environment projects.
The response from the field has exceeded expectations:
- Six groups, representing a total of 74 farmers, submitted a formal application;
- nearly 70 additional farmers expressed their interest through information sessions or direct contact with Natagriwal.
Overall, almost 10% of eligible farmers showed interest in the call, highlighting a strong enthusiasm for collective agri-environmental initiatives.
Following the selection process, two groups were chosen: Clermont and Mont-Saint-André. These two areas will become the first testing grounds for the collective AECS in Wallonia.
The project will start in January 2026 for a duration of five years. The initial phase will focus on defining group governance structures and identifying the collective projects to be implemented on the ground.
