Agroscope, ENDURE’s Swiss partner, is launching four new experimental stations as part of its strategy to strengthen research and its practical relevance. “The aim of the experimental stations is to answer applied research questions in their respective geographic contexts, in close cooperation with the agricultural sector and with partners in education and training as well as extension,” explains Agroscope.
For example, a new experimental station for viticulture and oenology is being built in Leytron, a commune with more than 260 hectares of vines which is well known for its production of Humagne grapes. Agroscope is working in close collaboration with the canton of Valais, the Valais viticulture sector and AGRIDEA, the Centre for Agricultural Advisory and Extension Services. The synergistic effects of the various partners are expected to create added value for the entire Swiss viticulture industry.
Similarly, a new vegetable experimentation station is being established in Ins, in the Bernese Seeland, one of the most important vegetable production areas in Switzerland. The station will focus on key issues regarding sustainable vegetable production.
A third experimental station is to focus on smart technologies in agriculture and will involve the cantons of Thurgau and Schaffhausen and AGRIDEA. “The station will be tasked with the targeted expansion of digitalisation opportunities in agriculture for use in practice,” reports Agroscope. “An advisory board consisting of the farmers’ associations of both cantons and the Swiss Future Farm will support this undertaking and work strategically alongside the research station.”
A fourth new experimental station will focus on alpine and mountain farming in the Swiss Alps region, bringing together five cantons alongside industry and extension services.
You can read more about these new stations in the latest edition of Agroscope Magazine, which also includes an update on the development of new tools for sustainable weed management and news of Switzerland’s largest citizen science project, which is bringing together farmers, gardeners and researchers to study soil quality in fields, meadows and flowerbeds.
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Last update: 24/05/2023 - ENDURE © 2009 - Contact ENDURE - Disclaimer