ReAgt4Oeko: Agroforestry to Enhance Resilience in Organic Farming – A Practice-Research Network

Project start date

04/2026

Project end date

02/2031

Project Objective

The project aims to establish a long-term practical research network comprising approximately 20 organic farms with established agroforestry systems (AFS) alongside stakeholders from the research and advisory sectors. The focus lies on systematically analyzing the resilience-enhancing effects of AFS in organic farming and on generating and sharing practical recommendations for action. Research will concentrate on three key areas:

  • Crop production: Impact of AFS on soil and plant health as well as yield stability
  • Livestock farming: Reduction of heat stress, nitrogen distribution in grazing cattle and laying hen systems within AFS, and the utilization of tree fodder
  • Economics: Recording and evaluating economic performance indicators for various agroforestry management concepts

The work combines scientific analysis with practical, experience-based knowledge and systematic monitoring. The insights gained will be integrated into existing open-source tools, providing a sound basis for decision making both for advisory services and practitioners.

Knowledge transfer takes place through direct exchanges of participating farms, supra-regional professional networking, and the creation of practical materials for the agricultural community. The network is designed to be participatory and aims for long-term continuity. Around 20 partners from the fields of research, advisory services, networking, and knowledge transfer support this process.


At a glance

Project Partners

  • University of Kassel (Applicant): Department of Organic Farming and Cropping Systems; Department of Grassland Science and Renewable Plant Resources
  • Julius Kühn Institute (JKI): Federal Research Institute for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Ecological Chemistry, Plant Analysis and Stored Product Protection
  • Finck Foundation gGmbH
  • Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN)
  • Many other partner organizations and commercial farms

Funding

Funding for the project is provided by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Regional Identity (BMLEH) pursuant to a resolution of the German Bundestag. The project is administered by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) as part of the Federal Program for Organic Farming, grant number 2824OE025A.