A new financial assistance scheme that aims to support Maltese and Gozitan farmers in adopting agroforestry systems, which include the planting of fruit trees has been launched by Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo.

The Minister stressed that “this scheme is an important step in protecting the environment and the sustainable development of farming in our country.”

Minister Anton Refalo explained that through this initiative, the Government will provide financial support to farmers who integrate forestry practices with farming on the same land, a system that helps in soil conservation, improving biodiversity and sequestering carbon in the soil.

He added that this scheme, which has a budget of €600,000 financed from national funds, aims to encourage farmers to use modern methods that increase the sustainability and productivity of their land.

Director General of the Agricultural and Rural Payments Agency (ARPA), Louisa Formosa, said, “this scheme offers an opportunity for farmers to adapt more sustainable systems that not only help reduce emissions, but also improve soil health and agricultural productivity. The funding for this scheme is intended to support farmers in this process of change, and I therefore encourage those eligible to contact ARPA for further information and guidance on the application.”

Applications for this scheme are now open, and interested farmers are encouraged to apply through the Agricultural and Rural Payments Agency (ARPA).

For more information, farmers can contact ARPA on 22926148 or via email at arpa.mafa@gov.mt

File photo: Gozo News/Alain Salvary

Permalink: New scheme for farmers offering financial assistance for agroforestry