Spreading area

Wet meadows of the Swiss are in accordance phrase Regulation (Regulation on agricultural terms and the recognition of operating forms) as extensively used areas, which mostly relate to wet and damp locations. The litter area is cut every one to three years and the yield is only used as fodder on the farm in exceptional cases.

Litter areas are counted towards the ecological compensation areas (at least 7% of the total agricultural area) within the framework of the minimum requirements for direct payments and are eligible for contributions (arable and transition zone: 1500 CHF / ha , hill zone: 1200 CHF / ha, mountain zone I & II: 700 CHF, mountain zone III & IV: 450 CHF / ha). If certain criteria are met, networking contributions (CHF 500 / ha) and quality contributions (CHF 500 / ha) in accordance with the Organic Quality Ordinance can also be paid out on littered areas.

Fertilization and plant treatment agents are not permitted on the eligible litter area . At least every three years, the clippings must be used and the clippings must be removed, but piles of branches and litter are allowed and desired as a shelter for animals. The earliest cut date is September 1st, the minimum area is 5 ares. After registering the eligible spreading area, it must be used at the same location for six years.

For nature conservation considerations, the financial contributions made by the use of the littered area are very important for maintaining the minimum use, since abandoned areas quickly lose their above-average biodiversity.

See also: Streuwiese