Flemish Minister of Nature Zuhal Demir (N-VA) is starting a species protection programme for the conservation of farmland birds. They tell us something about the quality of our landscapes. “Working on this species is working on the entire landscape and its biodiversity,” Demir explains.
The farmland bird is not doing well. Despite the targeted use of instruments for the conservation and restoration of biodiversity in our agricultural areas, the population continues to decline. Some of the causes are the increasingly intensive agriculture and the increase in the use of pesticides. This makes it more difficult for farmland birds to find food, for themselves and for their young.
The species protection program should improve this in five years. The intention is to tackle certain initiatives more structurally throughout Flanders, such as the measure whereby farmers can enter into management agreements for farmland birds with the Flemish Land Company (VLM).
The cooperation of the agricultural sector is essential, Demir emphasizes. “This initiative was therefore discussed in advance with the agricultural associations. The new agricultural policy can already offer additional incentives through various management agreements and eco-schemes,” said the minister.
