42 - Experimental stations – practical research with a regional focus

Programme manager:

Objective

The experimental stations aim to work with all stakeholders to address complex problems in a regional context. They collaborate closely with practice, agricultural extension, enforcement and research to develop solutions for selected regional hotspots which can be transferred to similar regions.

• Specific objectives

  • Substance Flows Experimental Station (LU): solutions to increase nutrient efficiency and reduce emissions from livestock farming.
  • Vegetable Production Experimental Station (BE): integrated strategies for profitable and sustainable vegetable production focussing on plant protection strategies, soil fertility, biodiversity, digitalisation and energy optimisation of greenhouse crops.
  • Viticulture and Oenology Experimental Station (VS): solutions for climate change, improving cultivation methods and resource-efficient winemaking.
  • Alpine and Mountain Farming Experimental Station in pre-alpine and alpine regions (BE, GR, TI, UR, VS): solutions focussing on structural, organisational, economic and climatic differences between regions on the topics of climate adaptation, milk technology and alp management. Better understand the problem of shrub encroachment in mountain regions.
  • Smart Technologies in Agriculture Experimental Station: understand complex agricultural production processes using intelligent technologies and optimise tools under real conditions.
  • Centre of Excellence for Raw-Milk Products: increase the added value of raw milk products and ensure that there are no increased risks associated with their consumption.
  • Competence Network for Fruit and Berries for Fruit and Berries: solutions to address medium- and long-term challenges in Swiss fruit production relating to varieties, plant protection and profitability.
  • Neobiota Centre of Excellence: Develop control methods to prevent and contain the spread of new disease pathogens, pests and invasive plants
  • Viticulture and Œnologie Experimental Station (Canton of Vaud): Improving sustainability in wine production, (i) Optimising energy and resource consumption in wine cellars, (ii) Analysing indigenous yeast populations for spontaneous fermentations and (iii) Solutions for utilising by-products and residues.

Expected outcomes

Model solution for a significant problem in a specific region. Other regions successfully adapt results and experiences.

Projects

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