News
Masurian recommendations for changes in agricultural policy
RIC Pro-Akademia, together with our partners from the EcoReadyMasuria Living Lab: University of Warsaw and Local Action Group Leader in EGO, organised workshops "From the field to agricultural policy: together for the future of Masurian agriculture".
The event was attended by over 50 participants, including:
• farmers, including representatives of the Warmia and Mazury Chamber of Agriculture,
• scientists from RIC Pro-Akademia and the University of Warsaw,
• agricultural advisors from the Warmia and Mazury Agricultural Advisory Centre,
• representatives of government administration (ARiMR, KOWR, Provincial Office in Olsztyn),
• representatives of local government administration from the Olecko County, Świętajno Municipality and Kowale Oleckie Municipality.
The meeting took place on 1 December 2025 in Sokółka (Kowale Oleckie Commune).
During the workshop, participants learned about the results of field research conducted at EcoReadyMasuria Demonstration Farms. This research showed how innovative practices – including in the cultivation of barley, maize and clover – can strengthen the resilience of regional food systems to changing climatic conditions.
Joint table work allowed participants to identify current needs, barriers and recommendations for modifying national and European agricultural policy. Participants also had the opportunity to learn about upcoming changes in EU policy on agriculture and environmental protection.
The most important regulatory barriers identified included: the area-based subsidy model, which encourages the perpetuation of monocultures, and the insufficient financial instruments to reduce the risk for farmers testing new solutions for climate change adaptation and improving biodiversity.
Key recommendations include: the introduction of national quality standards for biopreparations, faster registration of drought-resistant varieties and bonuses for maintaining landscape features.
During the event, the EcoReadyMasuria Demonstration Farms were also honoured for testing new practices in 2025, including the use of forage herbs in red clover cultivation and mixed sunflower and maize cultivation.
The meeting provided a valuable opportunity for farmers, advisors and experts to exchange experiences and strengthen cooperation.
The workshops were held as part of the project "EcoReadyMasuria – Masurian Living Lab Eco-Ready: Co-creating resilient food systems for Central and Eastern Europe". The project supports the development of innovative solutions in agriculture that contribute to the sustainable development of the region and improve the quality of life of its inhabitants.
More information about the EcoReadyMasuria Living Lab is available at: www.ecoreadymasuria.pl
This sub-project has received funding from the project ECO-READY (grant agreement No. 101084201) through its Open Call, funded by the European Union’sHorizon Europe research and innovation programme