On Friday 9 November, the European Commission announced a decision enabling farmers to receive full compensation for damage caused on farms by protected animals, such as wolves.
In addition, investments made by farmers to prevent such damage, for example building electric fences or acquiring guard dogs, will be fully reimbursed.
“The decision aims to increase support to farmers in areas where large carnivores are present”, explains the Commission.
Support to help resolve conflicts associated with the conservation of protected animals can be granted from EU funds, notably under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, and from national funds (state aid).
The state aid rules applicable to compensation for damage caused by protected animals are laid down in the EU Guidelines for State Aid in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural areas 2014-2020.
Until now, 80% of investments could be repaid through state aid. The decision amends the guidelines to bring that rate to 100%. Member States will also be allowed to reimburse 100% of so-called indirect costs (veterinary costs resulting from the treatment of injured animals and labour costs related to the search for missing livestock after an attack by a protected animal). (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)