Commission proposal to apply aerial survey and remote-sensing techniques to the collection of agricultural statistics
The European Commission has put forward a proposal to apply aerial survey and remote-sensing techniques to the collection of agricultural statistics in the EU. If the proposal is accepted by the Council, the move will require the creation of suitable tools for collecting data and other technical work. The proposal by the Commission cites the need to have adequate information on land use and the condition of crops in order to support developments in the Common Agricultural Policy, and with a view to the enlargement of the EU. It says remote sensing and aerial surveying can help improve the EU's statistical tools for conceiving, managing and monitoring the Common Agricultural Policy. The five year period of work would aim to: - create tools for collecting data on land use and other relevant variables - provide acceptable estimates of the areas under principal crops and their potential production - ensure that the condition of crops during the growing period is monitored. The Commission proposes to implement these measures within existing funding limits, either directly or in conjunction with national authorities.