Mulch regulation status explored

The European Union has introduced new regulations for fallow land and voluntary flower strips under the Common Agricultural Policy. Let's break down the key points.

Firstly, for voluntary flower strips and areas on ER 1a fallow land under ER 1b, inversion is prohibited in the first application year. However, from September 1 in the second year, inversion is allowed if ER 1b is applied for two consecutive years, as long as a crop is grown that does not lead to harvest in the application year. Similar rules apply to mulching, which is prohibited in the first application year and allowed from August 16 in the second year, again under the same conditions.

Under the current policy, fallow land designated as an "ecological focus area" may permit the addition or removal of biomass or debris only outside the bird breeding season, typically after mid-August or early September, subject to national regulations. It's important to note that different types of fallow land are distinguished under the ecological regulations (ER), which determine whether mulching is currently allowed or prohibited.

For one-year fallow land under ER 1a, inversion is possible from September 1, provided a crop is grown that does not lead to harvest in the application year. Grazing by sheep and goats is allowed on one-year fallow land under ER 1a from September 1. The regulations for mulching on one-year fallow land under ER 1a, according to the Lower Saxony Chamber of Agriculture, allow mulching from August 16 and make it mandatory every two years.

There are some exceptions to these rules. For instance, inversion for maintenance purposes in case of strong weed infestation on one-year fallow land under ER 1a is allowed from September 1, 2025, with immediate subsequent sowing of at least 5 herbaceous, dicotyledonous species. Grazing is not permitted for voluntary flower strips and areas on ER 1a fallow land under ER 1b.

As for the yield of bread wheat, while a hectare can produce many rolls of bread, this information is not specified in the provided content. The regulations and deadlines for mid-August or early September regarding the ecological regulations of the Common EU Agricultural Policy apply to different types of fallow land.

These new regulations aim to promote environmentally friendly farming practices and biodiversity while ensuring agricultural productivity. Farmers are advised to familiarise themselves with these rules to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.