Consultation with NGOs should also be encouraged, particularly where they have relevant expertise in the regions concerned. However, where a longer period is objectively necessary, then this longer period should be applied. Parallel activities should be transparent and fully disclosed to assure efficiencies. Given that most agri-environment programmes are complex, a continual process of review and adjustment is a positive aspect of implementation. The Commission and Member States must ensure as smooth a procedure as possible to enable changes to be made as the need arises.
Adjustments arise from a careful follow up of programmes.
Precise and measurable objectives are needed. Good quality monitoring and evaluation is evidence of a management culture prepared to accept programme development. In many regions, however, and some Member States less efforts appear to have been made. In other Member States, evaluation is still at an early stage and no results are foreseen until 1999. Successful policies are those which achieve objectives at least overall cost.