The municipality of Pajottegem offers farmers the opportunity to receive a subsidy for conducting soil analyses. These analyses must be performed on agricultural land located within the territory of Pajottegem. Soil samples must be analyzed by an accredited laboratory. No subsidy is granted if the analyses were performed free of charge. If the cost of the analysis is less than the allowed subsidy, only the actual cost will be reimbursed.
Soil analyses on agricultural lands yield numerous benefits, such as preventing over-fertilization, thereby minimizing nutrient (fertilizer) runoff into groundwater and surface water. This is particularly important for nitrogen runoff. It also encourages farmers to fertilize more thoughtfully, ensures optimal soil acidity (pH) for effective nutrient uptake, and contributes to fertile soil with better soil life, improved water management, and reduced erosion. Fertilization can thus be precisely adjusted to the plant's needs, both in terms of product choice and application rate.
Financial support for farmers aims to encourage the undertaking of soil analyses. Applications for the premium must be submitted no later than June 30 of the year in which the premium is requested.
