This mixed method approach is very relevant for evaluating interventions targeting young farmers. The application of the AgriPolis model in the two case study regions proved it to be a useful tool to predict the utility of the YFP on farm structure. It also proved to align well with stakeholder’s perceptions of the policy.
The combination of the simulation model and the stakeholder assessment revealed that the YFP in Altmark (DE) and Flanders (BE) had little impact on young farmers’ decisions on whether to enter farming or not, due to several shortcomings with the YFP. For instance, many issues not covered by the policy need to be addressed to facilitate generational renewal, such as the perceived low social acceptance of agriculture, the workload, the uncertainty, and the incompatibility of farming as an occupation with modern expectations of work-life balance. Recommendations were also developed, suggesting that alternative approaches to supporting young farmers should address better the barriers to entry issue.
These findings offer an excellent example of how this mixed method can be useful for evaluating interventions for young farmers. Since the method helps provide evidence for policy making, based on simulations/predictions, it is pertinent for ex ante evaluations and ex post evaluations that feed into future policy design.
Although this approach has only been implemented in two case study regions, it may be replicated in other regions by following the same steps and provided there is data on typical farms of the region either in FADN or in national/regional statistical offices.