In June 2023, NEIKER hosted its traditional field visit at its Arkaute headquarters in Álava, showcasing the current and future potential of organic farming. During the event, prominent figures in the agricultural sector had the opportunity to observe the organic wheat trial from INNOVAR, as well as trials involving other crops such as soybeans, conducted at the institution. Mario Fernandez from UPM led the INNOVAR trial visit and addressed questions from the audience, which consisted of farmers, seed producers, and researchers.
Research into new varieties adapted to organic farming is crucial for the ongoing expansion of organic agriculture and its continuous growth in acreage. The European Union’s ‘Farm to Fork’ strategy envisions that by 2030, 25% of European agricultural land should be dedicated to organic crops.
This is why, within the INNOVAR project, multiple partners are conducting organic trials. In Spain, UPM’s organic bread wheat trials are carried out in collaboration with NEIKER, a member of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA).
Watch below some photos of the visit:
