Agricultural Extension System
Several reports have highlighted the fact that the German advisory system differs
considerably between different regions in the institutional setup as well as in the actors
involved (Bokelmann et al. 2012; Paul et al.; Thomas 2007; Hoffmann 2002). Thomas
(2007) differentiates between
(1) official public advisory services,
(2) advice through chambers of agriculture,
(3) advisory rings (organised as associations), and
(4) private advisory services. In the southern states public advisory services dominate, in north-
western and middle Germany advisory services are offered by the chambers of agriculture,
and in most eastern federal states the advisory services are offered by private companies
or banks.
Online provides a map illustrating the distribution of advisory systems in the
Länder. Recently private advisory service providers become increasingly important as
funding for public extension services is decreasing. Of course all farmers can consult private
(and commercial) services (Bokelmann et al. 2012).
Paul et al. Concludes that this ‘creates
considerable obstacles for the horizontal knowledge flows. According to literature and
experts, the linkages within the AKIS therefore cannot be classified as well-functioning,
especially from the national perspective.’ Advisory services are funded through different
public and private sources. EU funding is offered through measures 114 of the Rural
Development Programmes 2007-2013 (appeared only by six out of 14 programmes); co-
funding is possible through federal GAK funds.
EU Forecast
euf:ba18h:21/nws-01