The pilot project is the result of an extensive competition within Austrian agriculture and among environmental and climate scientists. Increasingly frequent periods of drought, changing soil conditions, and extreme weather events: agriculture faces major challenges due to climate change. What can be done at an early stage to adapt to the changed conditions?
Besides the state of Tyrol, the jury itself consisted of the Tyrolean Chamber of Agriculture, Agrarmarketing Tirol, members of the Tyrolean Climate Councils, and Fridays For Future, who proposed the idea of such a model region. The state of Tyrol is providing 50,000 euros over the next two years for the model region.
The selected project impressed with its diversity and close cooperation with young farmers/rural youth in the Kufstein district, the Chamber of Agriculture, the Management Center Innsbruck, and Kufstein University of Applied Sciences, says LHStv agricultural council member Josef Geisler.
After an extensive soil analysis, suitable grain and legume varieties were selected from the Tyrolean gene bank to be cultivated on these innovative farms. The focus is on growing crops that are more resistant to more extreme weather conditions.
Two outdoor experimental areas will be freely accessible to the public. According to the jury, this educational aspect highlights the role of these initiatives as catalysts for awareness and knowledge sharing within the community.
These developments are supported by government agencies and local organizations. The Kaiserwinkl region is especially mentioned as a pioneer in the effort to become climate-fit in the agricultural sector.
A third test area will be located at Kufstein University of Applied Sciences: a so-called aquaponics system to efficiently use water and nutrients and reduce the use of fertilizers. An aquaponics system consists of a water cycle in which fish live on one side and are used on the other side to irrigate crops.
The use of aqua-techniques for irrigation can also provide economic benefits for farmers in the region. By using resources more efficiently while maintaining or even increasing productivity, these initiatives can contribute to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural system.
The fact that these projects are taking place in Tyrol highlights, according to the Austrians, the urgent need for responsible agricultural practices. By investing in research and innovation in the agricultural sector, Tyrol wants to demonstrate that it aims to be a front-runner in the fight against climate change.