This year, farmers in Rhineland-Palatinate are able to submit initial applications for agri-environmental and climate measures (AECM) digitally through the Electronic Agricultural Application System (LEA) for the first time. AECM support agricultural businesses in implementing voluntary measures to protect nature, the environment and the climate. Applications can be submitted until September 18, 2026. Initial applications are currently available for “Vertragsnaturschutz Grünland” (contractual nature conservation for grassland) and “Ökologische Wirtschaftsweise” (organic farming) schemes.
The digital application process supports applicants throughout the entire application process. The forms section provides an overview of existing contracts, while the forms for new AECM applications include automatic area calculations and built-in validation checks. This helps applicants enter their information efficiently while reducing the risk of errors. |  |
The geospatial data entry process makes use of information already available in the system. Existing parcels can be used directly when completing the AECM application, making it quicker and easier to enter the required information. The interface follows the familiar workflow used for the agricultural funding application. A guided submission process then takes applicants through the final checks and submission step by step, making the process straightforward and secure. | |