Ministère de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation
In 2003, the price of plowable land rose by 2.8%, and that of grassland by 3.8%. Despite their 4.1% increase, vineyard prices continued the slowing trend noted in 2002.
Farming practices that can trap nitrates continue to be limited. Three-quarters of acreage remains unplanted between two main crops. Planting without plowing the fields, which limits the risk of soil erosion, is practiced principally the South-West.
Unable to increase their herd sizes, large breeders place some of their swine on other farms for fattening. This sub-contracting concerns mainly Breton producers.
The number of professional farms decreases by 2.3% per year between 2000 and 2003. They measure 70 hectares as against 65 in 2000. Excluding seasonal work, more than 875,000 people work full time or part time on these farms.
Turnover of agri-business firms of more than 20 employees progressed by 1.1% in 2003. Current accounts, investment and employment decline.
The yield of the public network varies according to the type of dwelling served. Leaks are often difficult to locate when the pipes are several decades old.
The national average farm income per worker falls by 0.8% in 2003. In spite of the drought, cattle farm income is up thanks to good prices and agricultural disaster aid. Income of appellation wine producers is down 30%.
Swine breeders have improved their buildings during the first Plan for Mastering Agricultural Pollution. But in 2001, as previously, they continue to lack sufficient acreage for spreading animal wastes.
When renovating farm buildings, cattle breeders favour free stalling. The collection of animal wastes is better, but remains insufficient in older buildings.
The production of ’foie gras’ (fatty goose or duck liver) declined by 40 % in 2003, but in spite of this reduced supply, production prices continue to fall. ’Foie gras’ produced in the Southwest region has been regaining market share from the Vendée region since the beginning of 2000.
Ministère de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation