FOREST4EU Booklet Extended Summaries - Innovation Topic Hub 5: Agroforestry

EXTENDED SUMMARIES ITHub 5 Agroforestry systems ITHub 5 – Agroforestry (33 extended summaries) Overview of the extended summaries of ITHub5. Title of innovation Operational Groups (short name) Country 1 Increase and transfer knowledge to producers about the natural regeneration processes of cork oaks and holm oaks in agro-forestry systems in Alentejo region, Portugal. Oak Regeneration Portugal 2 Expeditious method for mapping soil’s organic matter OG Solo Portugal 3 Identification and Monitoring of Pastures in Agroforestry using Multispectral Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Products OG Fósforo Portugal 4 Use of Keyline for planting cork oaks and holm oaks in agro-forestry systems EcoMontadoXXI Portugal 5 Test and develop a method for the implementation of silvopastoral mosaics, using remote sensing approaches, that supports agricultural and forestry activity in areas of Pyrenean oak, which typically have low agricultural value SILVPAST Portugal 6 Use of Keyline to increase soil’s moisture retention capacity in summer months EcoMontadoXXI Portugal 7 Use of Keyline to increase soil chimicals conditions for plant assimilation EcoMontadoXXI Portugal 8 Characterization of portuguese sown rainfed grasslands using remote sensing and machine learning OG Fósforo Portugal 9 Spatiotemporal Patterns of Pasture Quality Based on NDVI Time-Series in Mediterranean Montado Ecosystem OG Fósforo Portugal 10 Review assesses the state of the art regarding the use of livestock for ecosystem management in Mediterranean landscapes SILVPAST Portugal 11 Development of an autonomous and digitalized feeding system for pigs of the Celtic trunk in Atlantic deciduous forests FORESTCELTA Spain 12 “Agroforestry in Austria” Network Agroforst in Österreich Austria 13 Practitioner-oriented consulting for agroforestry systems in Austria Agroforst in Österreich Austria 14 Agroforestry "Farminar" as new mode of knowledge transfer Agroforst in Österreich Austria 15 Technology for the mobilization and use of forest biomass in agroindustry GOTECFOR Portugal 16 New and innovative cultivation methods of highly productive apples adapted to northern climates Commercial productive apple growing in a northern climate Sweden 17 Local densified log industry BUCHDENS France 18 Transposing knowledge and tools on the adaptation of trees to climate change from the forest environment to the bocage environment ARBRE France 19 Raising awareness and setting up tests on assisted natural hedge regeneration ARBRE France 20 Trees and forests on mountain farms: measuring performance and innovating to support the evolution of Pyrenean grassland systems AGROSYL France 21 Biological control of Chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica) by virus infection (hypovirulence) CASTANEA Spain 22 Manual of recommendations for an efficient use of water in chestnut groves CASTANEA Spain 23 School of Agroforestry NEWTON Italy 24 Criteria and indicators for the certification of the sustainable management of an agroforestry system PEFC NEWTON Italy 25 Model of a productive agroforestry system in Extremadura (Southwest Spain) CASTANEA SPAIN 26 LCA application on semi-extensive agrosilvopastoral systems NEWTON Italy 27 Evaluation of the impact of different grazing intensities of Maremma cattle on the components of the agroecosystem: soil, tree vegetation (structure, natural regeneration and biodiversity) NEWTON Italy 28 Chestnut varieties recommended for cultivation in Extremadura (Southwest Spain) CASTANEA SPAIN 29 Comparing pastoral and silvopastoral management on a local beef cattle breed: productivity, animal welfare and pasture depletion in a Mediterranean extensive farm NEWTON Italy 30 Development of a platform through sensors for pasture management in the dehesa GRASSEN Spain 31 Are short rotation coppice a solution in future regional biorafineries ? OG TCR France 32 A feasible step-by-step plan with practical guidelines and concrete designs to enable the application of agroforestry on farms Experiment Agroforestry NoordHolland the Netherlands 33 New management practices in rainfed olive groves GO Olival Portugal ITHub 5 - 1 Title of innovation Increase and transfer knowledge to producers about the natural regeneration processes of cork oaks and holm oaks in agro-forestry systems in Alentejo region, Portugal ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) ANSUB Operational Group (short name) Oak Regeneration Operational Group (name) Oak Regeneration Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) One investigation Institute, 4 forestland owners associations and 8 forestland owners Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/findconnect/projects/oak%C2%AEegeneration.html Country, region, city Portugal, Alentejo Type of innovation Service Keywords Agroforestry; forest degradation ; forest restouration; Approach and main results Cork oak (Quercus suber) and holm oak (Quercus rotundifolia) forests are Mediterranean ecosystems characterized by an open, irregular forest that regenerates naturally and is associated with agricultural and livestock activities, in a traditional and multifunctional system, agro-silvo-pastoral land use. One of the greatest threats to economic and ecological sustainability of these systems is the lack of natural regeneration, which tends to be aggravated by climate change. This threat is embodied in the current context of management of cork oak and holm oak forests which, on the one hand, resort almost exclusively to artificial regeneration (mainly by plantation), with high costs, aggravated when the young plants fail and promotes the intensification of grazing or which, on the other hand, resorts to the extensification of management forestry and the abandonment of the cork oak forests. OG OakRegeneration was set out to better understand the natural regeneration process; occurrence patterns, growth dynamics and survival rates of natural regeneration in cork oak and holm oak forests. The objective is to make better use, protect and promote the natural regeneration of cork oaks and holm oaks in very restricted areas of the cork oak forests, typically areas where productive, agricultural and/or grazing activity was temporarily excluded, and where the local, biophysical and soilclimatic conditions were fortuitously favorable to the success of the natural regeneration process. For this purpose, a partnership was created with 8 entities, including producers and agro-forestry producers’ associations, having installed 14 demonstration areas subject to forest inventory and continuous monitoring to assess the dynamics of density, structure and growth of juvenile trees. In this work, the process of natural regeneration by seed was described, paying special attention to the fruiting phase, the germination phase and the recruitment phase of juvenile trees in function of soil types, competition with spontaneous shrub vegetation, whether in density, or in type of species. In this last item, this effect on soil fertility, solar irradiance, water stress, nitrogen fixation and biodiversity of the system was also analysed. It was also described the process of natural regeneration by bursting stumps and the most appropriate techniques to increase the success rate of this practice. The advantages and disadvantages of these forest regeneration processes were analysed too. As the main result of this project, a Manual of Management Techniques for Natural Regeneration Areas of Cork Oaks and Holm Oaks – Application and Demonstration of Good Management Practices was drawn up, on paper and available online to be distributed by interested agro-forestry producers. Lessons learned In cork oak forests, there seem to be no problems with regeneration density in the fruiting and germination phases, nor with the survival of young trees that matured in the seedling phase. The bottleneck of the process occurs in the temporal transition between regeneration of the year (without normal diameter) for the regeneration of seedlings (normal diameter up to 5 cm). In the natural regeneration process, the density of recruitment of juvenile trees (normal diameter greater than 20 cm) represents 50% of the regeneration density of seedlings (with normal diameter and less than 5 cm). Between cork and holm oaks, the survival curves, despite being very similar, present some differences. The survival curves in relation to the type of grazing are very similar and are distinguished only in the initial stages of the regeneration process. Although grazing with cattle is pointed out as one of the most serious factors responsible for the failure of the regeneration process. Plant density curve in grazed areas with cows and sheep is very similar. Technics like grazing management or individual protection of natural regeneration can improve survival curves. Contact information augusta.co[email protected]t Links to website/report/video https://www.oakregeneration.pt/en/ Pictures ITHub 5 - 2 Title of innovation Expeditious method for mapping soil’s organic matter ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) ANSUB Operational Group (short name) OG Solo Operational Group (name) Promoting soil conservation agricultural practices by demonstrating, expeditiously and at low cost, their impact on organic matter Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) An University, an Investigation center, an adviser, one farmers confederation and 6 farmers and forestland owners Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/find-connect/projects/go-solopromo%C3%A7%C3%A3o-de-pr%C3%A1ticas-agr%C3%ADcolas.html Country, region, city Portugal, Alentejo Type of innovation Process Keywords Soil management/functionality; Agroforestry; Remote Sensing data Approach and main results Soil organic matter is a key variable in soil analyses, used by farmers in pasture management and in the assessment of soil carbon sequestration. This assessment requires a rapid survey of soil samples in large quantities, capable of cost-effectively, covering large areas and assessing spatial heterogeneity for the application of differentiated management recommendations. The aim of the project was to develop an expeditious and low-cost method for mapping soil organic matter and for analyzing carbon sequestration in biodiverse sown pastures in agricultural and agro-forestry areas. The method used visible and near-infrared (VNIR) spectroscopy, using field sensors and satellite images. Experimental data collection was carried out on 7 agricultural properties, between 2018 and 2021. Soil samples were collected in 25 ha plots and the choice of sampling points was based on measurements of soil electrical conductivity. Sampling was carried out using mechanical and automatic collection equipment. The measurement of organic matter was carried out conventionally, in the laboratory, and also using near-infrared spectroscopy, using a spectrometer. The results obtained were correlated with satellite data and pasture management practices, measured during field visits. Lessons learned Soil organic matter (SOM) in an indicator of the evolution of soil fertility in the Montado Mediterranean ecosystem. There are significant correlations between NIRS calibration models and reference methods to quantify this soil parameters (R2, 0.85 and RPD, 2.7), which can mean an important simplification of the time and costs involved, better suited to the needs of the current agricultural production management. To go further, in a perspective of PA, two research topics require further attention: (i) improvement of portable spectrometers in order to achieve a more accurate response in direct field measurements and (ii) further exploration of soil spectral information obtained through satellites (remote sensing). Future research along any of these lines will involve more advanced technologies, such as the use of methods drawn from the field of artificial intelligence. Contact information [email protected] Links to website/report/video https://www.terraprima.pt/pt/projecto/24 Pictures food for the animals and allowed for maintaining a sufficiently high stocking rate to achieve effects on the regulation of vegetation structure and on the growth of understory shrubs in the oak forest. On the other hand, no significant effects were identified on the understory plant species richness (i.e., no promotion or impoverishment of biodiversity was observed). However, this result requires further future evaluation as it pertains to shortterm effects. Moderate impacts on the recruitment of young oaks were also identified, highlighting the need to maintain exclusion areas that provide the necessary conditions for natural regeneration to occur. Furthermore, genetic studies identified a good proportion of seed regeneration and suggested the existence of large-scale genetic exchanges, which favour the genetic diversity of the forest. Finally, satellite image analysis suggests that the pastoral use of the forest provides benefits to the natural pastures in the clearings, with an anticipation of the growing season and increased productivity (compared to the control parcel). Possibly, this effect was promoted by the lower amount of senescent herbaceous biomass accumulated in the autumn (due to previous grazing), which improved conditions for seed germination and seedling emergence in early autumn, including more sunlight and space. • In the Médio Côa (pilot area 2), a complementarity in species composition was identified among different land uses (i.e., with species communities associated to each use), which enhances landscape-scale biodiversity. Grazing by semi-wild horses with low stocking rates did not result in significant differences in vegetation structure and shrub cover volume compared to the non-grazed area. However, differences were found in the coverage of tall herbs, which was lower in the parcel with horses. These results suggest the potential of this grazing regime, but also the need for additional management measures, such as shrub clearing to create open areas (which will then be maintained through grazing), in order to improve performance in terms of biomass regulation and fire prevention. Lastly, the recruitment level of young oaks was lower in the pasture parcel with cattle, which reinforces the need to maintain exclusion areas or areas with lower stocking rates, and if necessary, implement local measures for the protection of regeneration. Lessons learned Livestock grazing at moderate densities helped to regulate shrub biomass and tall grasses and to create vertical discontinuities; however, these densities required the combined use of pastures, adjacent to the forest, to ensure adequate food resources and water points (if not available in the forest). Despite the use of GPS collars, there were signal failures, and animal injuries not attended in the due time. Hence, improved approaches are needed to effectively monitor livestock in a free-ranging regime in complex forest environments. Initial monitoring data indicates that the impact on biodiversity is neutral when compared to non-grazed areas. Grazing reduced levels of senescent herbs, which accumulated between growing seasons, and facilitated more vigorous grow in the autumn. Tree recruitment was moderately impacted, which is of low concern given the abundant recruitment at the pilot sites, but highlights the need for protective measures in areas with limited recruitment. Genetic studies identified a good proportion of seed regeneration and suggested the existence of large-scale genetic exchanges, which favour the genetic diversity. Contact information Vânia Proença ([email protected]) Nuno Rodrigues ([email protected]) Links to website/report/video https://www.terraprima.pt/pt/projecto/23 https://www.unac.pt/index.php/id-i/grupos-operacionais-accao-1-1pdr2020/silvpast-implementacao-custo-eficiente-de-mosaicos-silvo-pastorisde-carvalho-negral Pictures ITHub 5 - 6 Title of innovation Use of Keyline to increase soil’s moisture retention capacity in summer months ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) ANSUB Operational Group (short name) EcoMontadoXXI Operational Group (name) ECOMONTADO XXI - Agroecology applied to the design of the new cork-oak forest (“Montado”) Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) One Investigation Centre and a farmer Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/find-connect/projects/ecomontadoxxi-agroecologia-aplicada-ao-design-do.html Country, region, city Portugal, Alentejo Type of innovation Process Keywords Soil management/functionality; Water management; Agroforestry; mitigation to climate change; Farming equipment and machinery Approach and main results Keyline is an agricultural system developed by Percival Alfred Yeomans (PA), in Australia, in the late 1940s and 1950s, after combining experiments carried out on his farm, with his readings on ecological agriculture and the knowledge of some academics. Keyline is a topographic line traced using a point on the ground as reference where the water, when descending, abruptly slows down, resulting in an area of accumulation of water. Using this line as a reference, slightly uneven lines (about 1% in relation to the Key Line) are drawn for surface water redistribution and/or water storage. This way, water is distributed in the soil and progressively transported from the valley for the peak zones. Thus, the infiltration rate is increased at the same time as the surface runoff and the evaporation rate are reduced, allowing a significant improvement in soil fertility and structure. By improving the distribution of moisture in the soil, it increase the total content of organic matter, as well as the biological activity. This system is designed to promote the retention and redistribution of water in the soil, as well as the active construction of the soil in clean areas or with a low degree of forest cover to improve installation conditions of new vegetation cover, including improved pastures, aromatic, or trees in different agroforestry systems. Assuming that the impact of Keyline is mainly felt at the level of soil moisture, 30 humidity measurement probes were installed on 2 properties in south Portugal. we can see that Keyline effects indicate that soil’s moisture content vary according to weather and the altitude zone. In the upper zone, the results indicate greater moisture retention at depths from 10 to 40 centimeters, from March to July, when the reduction of precipitation starts to affect soil moisture values. In the intermediate zone, there was a greater retention of soil moisture at depths from 0 to 20 centimeters. On the other hand, in the lower zone, there was a reduction in moisture retention at depths from 0 to 10 centimeters, since the first marking of the Keyline, in February 2019, with reinforcement of this effect after the second Keyline marking, in June 2020. Thus, a reduction in waterlogging is observed in the most superficial layer of the soil. However, for depths from 10 to 50 centimeters, a greater retention of moisture in the soil is already observed again in the months of May and June, when it starts to dry. In another property, an increase in the humidity values in the deepest layer of the soil, from 40 to 50 centimeters, is observed in the high zone, with a simultaneous decrease in the values of soil humidity in the most superficial layer, from 0 to 10 centimeters, for the months from March to May. In this situation, which coincided with a period of higher precipitation, there seems to have been a drainage of water from the most superficial levels to the deepest levels of the soil, due to the Keyline effect. From May to July, there is a reduction in soil moisture levels similar both in the share of control as in instalment with Keyline. In this situation, corresponding to the higher altitude topographical location, Keyline had no effect on soil moisture retention. Lessons learned Keyline has an impact on soil moisture but it varies according to weather and the altitude zone. Therefore, the implementation of this Keyline system is not recommended in sandy loam or sandy soils, with the exception of areas that are prone to saturation, where the Keyline could reduce this tendency. In places where the textural composition of the soil frequently leads to situations of waterlogging or reduced infiltration into the deeper layers, the implementation of Keyline brings advantages by enabling an increase in the soil moisture retention capacity in the months summer, mitigating the effects of the lack of water during this season and facilitating the drainage of water in the lower areas, when there is more precipitation. Contact information [email protected] Links to website/report/video http://www.ecomontadoxxi.uevora.pt/ Pictures ITHub 5 - 7 Title of innovation Use of Keyline to increase soil chemicals conditions for plant assimilation ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) ANSUB Operational Group (short name) EcoMontadoXXI Operational Group (name) ECOMONTADO XXI - Agroecology applied to the design of the new cork-oak forest (“Montado”) Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) One Investigation Centre and a farmer Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/find-connect/projects/ecomontadoxxi-agroecologia-aplicada-ao-design-do.html Country, region, city Portugal, Alentejo Type of innovation Process Keywords Farming equipment and machinery; Fertilisation and nutrients management; Soil management/functionality; Agroforestry Approach and main results The Montado is a multifunctional silvo-pastoral system with high conservation value, but which is currently subject to some pressure factors, namely the abandonment and intensification due to inadequate management of the animal herd in farms, among other factors. Climate change is causing more frequent droughts and higher temperatures that result in the loss of soil organic matter, making soils more prone to erosion. This leads to loss of fertility, making the system more vulnerable to drought and less able to support the establishment of new trees. In response to these observations, the Operational Group ECOMONTADO XXI has tried to develop a new forest management practice to restore the vitality and productivity of Montado soils, based on the Keyline system and Agroecology. The implementation of the Keyline system consists in the design of curves, slightly uneven (about 1%), in relation to the level curves, towards the ridge. In this way, the water is forced out of the valley area and distributed to areas where it normally does not accumulate. The Keyline system also includes the use of a Yeomans plow, which opens furrows in the soil without any mobilization, so as not to disturb soil life and reduce the rate of mineralization of organic matter to a minimum. 57 sampling points were defined for various measurements (soil quality, soil moisture monitoring, evaluation of pasture biomass growth and determination of species of pasture present). These points were grouped into straight lines with their beginning in a higher altitude topographical area and their end in a topographical area down. Soil analyzes were carried out twice during the project, with the first soil collection taking place between March and May, 2019, and the second soil collection taking place between March and April, 2021. Soil samples were collected from 19 sampling sites, at the following depths (0-20 cm, 20-40 cm, 40-60 cm). Each sample from a location at a given depth is a composite sample of the samples collected at the two or three points (from the same location at that depth. Analyzes of soil samples collected were: Field texture (only at the beginning of the project); pH (H2O), pH (KCl), Conductivity, Organic Matter, Extractable Phosphorus (P2O5), Extractable Potassium (K2O), Extractable Calcium, Extractable Magnesium and Manganese. Lessons learned There are a multitude of factors that influence the availability of different elements in the soil, namely pH values whose increase seems to have an impact on the highest phosphorus values observed. On the other hand, the growth of pasture biomass, quite significant in plot 1, but also observed in plots E and G where a Keyline passage, seems to influence the lower availability of potassium and calcium due to their absorption by the plants. These results are in line with what has already been observed in other studies. In fact, Keyline was designed to improve water infiltration and prevent soil erosion which should, in the long term, increase soil fertility, but this result will take years to be observed. The increase in soil organic matter content can be a natural consequence of a good implementation of the Keyline design, without turning over the soil, but this too must be a process that will take several years to observe. The short period of study of this Operational Group does not allow the observation of these results or the clarification of the factors that justify the different variations in the contents of the different nutrients in the soil. Contact information [email protected] Links to website/report/video http://www.ecomontadoxxi.uevora.pt/ Pictures ITHub 5 - 8 Title of innovation Characterization of portuguese sown rainfed grasslands using remote sensing and machine learning ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) ANSUB Operational Group (short name) OG Fósforo Operational Group (name) GO Fósforo - Increasing the viability of sown biodiverse pastures through optimization of phosphate fertilization. Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental Two Universities, an advisor, an agricultors Association and 7 farmers groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/findconnect/projects/viabiliza%C3%A7%C3%A3o-de-pastagens-semeadasbiodiversas.html Country, region, city Portugal, Alentejo Type of innovation Technological innovation Keywords Soil management/functionality; Agroforestry; Remote Sensing data Approach and main results Grasslands are crucial ecosystems that support and provide a diverse number of ecosystem services. Sown biodiverse pastures rich in legumes (SBP) were developed with the main goal of increasing grassland production while minimizing fertilizers inputs. The main properties of SBP in Portugal were estimated using remote sensing and machine learning in six different farms and two production years (spring 2018 and 2019). Four pasture characteristics were considered: aboveground standing biomass, fraction of legumes, plant nitrogen (N) content and plant phosphorus (P) content. Remote sensing data were obtained from Sentinel-2. The spectral bands combined with 5 vegetation indices and 9 covariates were used. Multiple linear regression, LASSO, Ridge, random forests, XGBoost and LightGBM regression models were used. Two cross-validation approaches were used: (1) a random approach with random selection of the folds (RN-CV), and (2) a structured approach where each fold is a unique combination of farm and year, which is subsequently used to assess the performance of the model obtained with the 8 other folds (LLYO-CV). Lessons learned Results showed that the random forest method had the best estimation accuracy for all pasture characteristics. Regarding cross-validation approaches, the algorithms with RN-CV have higher estimation accuracy for all pasture characteristics (on average about 10% lower RMSE and an R2 85% higher), as compared to the algorithms with LLYO-CV. The RMSE for all variables were significantly low, especially in RN-CV. Plant P is the variable where the choice of CV approach has the least influence (RMSE of test set with RN-CV: 0.71 g P kg− 1; LLYO-CV: 0.72 g P kg− 1). Standing biomass is the variable with the highest difference between CV approaches (RN-CV: 722 kg ha− 1; LLYO-CV: 825 kg ha− 1). The RMSE, of legumes and plant N were moderately affected by the CV approach (legume RN-CV: 0.11; LLYO-CV: 0.12 – plant N RN-CV: 3.96 g N kg− 1; LLYO-CV: 3.99 g N kg− 1). The algorithms developed here were applied for entire parcels in the two farms with the most different climate conditions as demonstration of their potential future use for precision farming. Contact information [email protected] Links to website/report/video https://www.terraprima.pt/en/projecto/22 Pictures ITHub 5 - 9 Title of innovation Spatiotemporal Patterns of Pasture Quality Based on NDVI Time-Series in Mediterranean Montado Ecosystem ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) ANSUB Operational Group (short name) OG Fósforo Operational Group (name) GO Fósforo - Increasing the viability of sown biodiverse pastures through optimization of phosphate fertilization. Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) Two Universities, an advisor, an agricultors Association and 7 farmers Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/findconnect/projects/viabiliza%C3%A7%C3%A3o-de-pastagens-semeadasbiodiversas.html Country, region, city Portugal, Alentejo Type of innovation Technological innovation Keywords Soil management/functionality; Agroforestry; Remote Sensing data Approach and main results The evolution of dryland pasture quality is closely related to the seasonal and inter-annual variability characteristic of the Mediterranean climate. This variability introduces great unpredictability in the dynamic management of animal grazing. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential of two complementary tools (satellite images, Sentinel-2 and proximal optical sensor, OptRx) for the calculation of the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), to monitor in a timely manner indicators of pasture quality (moisture content, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber). In two consecutive years (2018/2019 and 2019/2020) these tools were evaluated in six fields representative of dryland pastures in the Alentejo region, in Portugal. Grasslands play a vital role in regulating the global carbon cycle, as well as supporting plant biodiversity and livestock production in Montado ecosystem. The real-time decision making that is made possible by the assessment of pasture quality ensures the resilience of these extensive systems, the estimation and adjustment of stocking rates, establishment of a sound scheduling of grazing or mowing, and the supplementary feeding or grassland improvements with legumes mixes, soil fertilization, or pH correction. Despite the complexity of grassland ecosystems, characterized by mixed species composition and strong spatial and temporal variability, this work opens perspectives to explore new solutions in the field of Precision Agriculture technologies based on spectral reflectance to respond to the challenges of economic and environmental sustainability of extensive livestock production systems. Lessons learned The results show a significant correlation between pasture quality degradation index (PQDI) and NDVI measured by remote sensing (R2 = 0.82) and measured by proximal optical sensor (R2 = 0.83). These technological tools can potentially make an important contribution to decision making and to the management of livestock production. The complementarity of these two approaches makes it possible to overcome the limitations of satellite images that result (i) from the interference of clouds (which occurs frequently throughout the pasture vegetative cycle) and (ii) from the interference of tree canopy, an important layer of the Montado ecosystem. This work opens perspectives to explore new solutions in the field of Precision Agriculture technologies based on spectral reflectance to respond to the systems, the strategic partners of the OG (see above), and other interested groups were also involved. The network brings different types of knowledge together, incl. farming practice, scientific and advisory expertise on agroforestry systems, administrative and RDP-related knowledge, and knowledge transfer know how. It organizes field trips and learning from good practice examples (e.g. in Switzerland, supported by OG partner), provides knowledge and information on agroforestry systems, facilitates interaction and collaboration, and creates visibility for the topic in Austria. The network activities are mainly project-financed, thus lacking a solid basis. Communication activities are key to the network. The OG coordinator FiBL sustains the "Agroforestry in Austria" network through its website https://agroforst-oesterreich.at/ and follow-up projects. Moreover, the film “Agroforestry – Advantages for farms and environment” shows the participating farmers and informs about their agroforestry systems and motivations (see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NVTYmE4e7o) (in German). A publicly accessible journal article on the network’s activities creates broader awareness for and discussion about agroforestry, farming and the environment (see https://www.derstandard.de/story/2000129711836/zu-wenig-baeume-aufoesterreichs-aeckern-eine-vertane-chance-fuers) (in German). Lessons learned Establishing the agroforestry network in Austria created multiple benefits: a contact point for questions and issues related to agroforestry, stronger interest and demand from practitioners, awareness among decisionmakers for agroforestry as a means for land management with climate and nature, and pulling relevant agroforestry knowledge for Austria together. The networking and opportunities to meet like-minded people reduce initial barriers, making it easier for practitioners to implement agroforestry systems. Foreign know-how is channeled to Austria and made available. What went well? - cooperation in the network - openness of involved parties - exchange of knowledge and experience with practitioners from Austria and other countries What would you do differently today? - better pay attention to farming seasons when planning for meetings and workshops (to enhance opportunities for participation of all stakeholders) - increase resources for networking - earlier involvement of decisionmakers Contact information Theresia Markut, theresia.marku[email protected] Links to website/report/video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NVTYmE4e7o (in German) Pictures © Markut Theresia/FIBL ITHub 5 - 13 Title of innovation Practitioner-oriented consulting for agroforestry systems in Austria ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) StMELF-LWF Operational Group (short name) Agroforst in Österreich Operational Group (name) Wissenstransfer und Umsetzung von Agroforst-Systemen in Österreich Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) farmers, researchers, advisors, training institutions, interest groups Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/findconnect/projects/wissenstransfer-und-umsetzung-von-agroforst.html Country, region, city Austria, Lower Austria Type of innovation Service Keywords agroforestry, knowledge transfer, practitioner, advise Approach and main results Under certain conditions, contemporary agroforestry systems can be an economically and ecologically interesting way of optimizing land use for future (climate change-related) challenges, because they increase the productivity of an area without placing greater demands on natural resources. The OG seeks to promote agroforestry in Austrian agriculture by means of establishing demonstration sites and generating practical knowledge. The OG created a novel consulting service for agroforestry in Austrian agriculture. In Austria, the existing consulting services in agriculture did not meet the demand of farmers interested in agroforestry to provide them with guidance and support. When the OG started, there was no state-based consulting for identification of suitable agroforestry systems and their implementation. The OG met this demand and created learning opportunities for the multiple actors involved: six farmers in Upperund Lower Austria, who were willing to implement site-adapted agroforestry systems, the Lower Austria’s Chamber for Agriculture, and various experts in agroforestry. Lower Austria is one of eight Austrian provinces (plus Vienna). It is home to 1.7 Mio people and covers the largest territory (almost 20.000 km2) among Austrian provinces. The environmental pressure on the arable area is high. Establishing the demonstration sites benefited from practitioners’ interest in and readiness for the topic. The OG foresaw support for the planning and implementation of site-adapted agroforestry systems. Practitioners’ demands met with the support provided in the OG. With support of German and Swiss consultants, suitable systems were identified, plans for planting designed, means for browsing protection found and the farmers could plant and maintain the young trees. Participating farmers bought the tree seedlings with their own sources. EIP Agri does not provide for investment funding. A brochure for consulting on agroforestry in Austria pulls the existing knowledge together. It explains the notion of agroforestry, how farms and the environment benefit from it, provides planning tools and suggestions for implementation, the range of suitable tree species, possible problems that may occur and how to solve them. The brochure was published in Dec 2022 and is available via: https://agroforst-oesterreich.at/wpcontent/uploads/2023/03/AF-Beraterbroschuere_END.pdf (in German). Lessons learned The OG raised awareness for agroforestry among practitioners and in administrations, made concrete how different systems are implemented in practice, and the (potential) benefits which they delivered. The new Austrian GAP Strategic Planning for 2023-2027, however, does not include dedicated funding for agroforestry. Public support is yet available. The OG published an easy-to-read leaflet, which informs about alternative GAP funding (see: https://agroforst-oesterreich.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Agroforst-imOesterreichischen-Foerdersystem_2023-01-05.pdf) (in German). What went well? - There was great diversity of agroforestry systems in the project, which allowed to generate a broad range of information material and support within the three-year project duration What would you do differently today? - involve more farms as participants for demonstration sites in the project to increase opportunities for experimentation and development. Contact information Theresia Markut, theresia.marku[email protected] Links to website/report/video https://agroforst-oesterreich.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Agroforst-imOesterreichischen-Foerdersystem_2023-01-05.pdf (in German) Pictures © Markut Theresia/FIBL ITHub 5 - 14 Title of innovation Agroforestry "Farminar" as new mode of knowledge transfer ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) StMELF-LWF Operational Group (short name) Agroforst in Österreich Operational Group (name) Wissenstransfer und Umsetzung von Agroforst-Systemen in Österreich Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) farmers, researchers, advisors, training institutions, interest groups Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/findconnect/projects/wissenstransfer-und-umsetzung-von-agroforst.html Country, region, city Austria, Lower Austria Type of innovation Service Keywords agroforestry, knowledge transfer, farminar, practitioners Approach and main results Under certain conditions, contemporary agroforestry systems can be an economically and ecologically interesting way of optimizing land use for future (climate change-related) challenges, because they increase the productivity of an area without placing greater demands on natural resources. The Projekt Leader (FiBL) created an agroforestry farminar that ensures knowledge transfer on the topic for various groups, including practitioners and government agencies. In a farminar (a blend of the English "farm" and an "online seminar"), experts report directly from a farm, field or forest plot and present interesting work practices or equipment. People can participate on site as well online and ask questions via chat. Farminars thus stand for practical relevance and dynamism. Another plus point: they are recorded and posted online. The farminar format has been developed by an Austrian training institution for rural development. The agroforestry farminar, however, is the first of its kind. The agroforestry farminar is based on the knowledge and experience that was collected in the OG, yet funded by a different project. It was produced on one of the OG farms. People attended the farminar in person and online. The overall question of the farminar is: What does agroforestry bring to the farm and the environment? Lessons learned What went well? - Preparation and on-site technical implementation; hybrid format increased scope What would you do differently today? - Possibly, greater share of practical knowledge (less theory) - alternative planning for bad weather event (there was a storm when the farminar event was held) Contact information Theresia Markut, theresia.marku[email protected] Links to website/report/video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HwseLy14vw (in German) Pictures © Markut Theresia/FIBL ITHub 5 - 15 Title of innovation Technology for the mobilization and use of forest biomass in agroindustry ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) SOLUTOPUS Operational Group (short name) GOTECFOR Operational Group (name) Technology for the mobilization and use of forest biomass in agroindustry Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) researchers; business Link from OGs database https://gotecfor.pt/ Country, region, city Portugal (north). Porto Type of innovation Technological innovation Keywords wood mobilization; biomass; best use of machinery Approach and main results TECFOR was a OG from the initiative of a foresters association, in collaboration with SMEs and research institutes. The main objectives were: *Promote the use of forest biomass (FB) for valorization of the forest and territory and increased productivity/interconnection among agroforestry activities; • Reduce costs associated with associated production activities to protected crops (heat needs); • Promote comprehensive management of forest resources and value products considered residual, in order to reduce imports of fossil fuels; • Promote the use of more efficient, safer and more suitable machines and equipment for the Portuguese reality; • Promote the development of new sustainable, low-carbon and more efficient value chains in terms of use of resources; • Stimulate innovation and technological development to provide response to the needs of the various agents related to the use of FB. More specifically, it intended to identify technological development solutions that contribute to overcoming existing barriers; to test existing technical solutions for collecting FB in a more efficient - Identify the main obstacles to along the value chain and test support tools within the scope logistics processes to optimize the supply chain; to propose integrated models of energy production solutions depending on the type of consumers; to disseminate appropriate techniques and technologies for the use from FB and apply results from the European FOCUS project to manage the biomass supply chain in Portugal. The results highlighted by the team are: 1) a roadmap for floral biomass processing equipment that can be presented to forestry companies; 2) Biomass mobilization models will be presented as best practices for forest owners; 3) The application of biomass management software will give the percentage of efficiency that the forestry company "Floresta Jovem" obtained in terms of lower operational and logistical costs whose preliminary results are estimated at 9% efficiency in relation to previous biomass management; 4) For the agroindustry, in the case of "Floralves", it is expected that the cost associated with the acquisition of forest biomass (chip) decreases by 82% relative to natural gas. The amortization of the investment of the Biomass boiler is not included in the calculations. Eventually, "Floralves"' productivity may decrease with the use of forest biomass as a source of fuel, in relation to the previous use of natural gas; 5) To improve productivity, physical or mechanical reduction of CO2 emissions from the biomass boiler, using a cyclonic separation method that removes particulate matter. Ash from the biomass boiler is being used by "Floralves" as fertilizer for land near the greenhouse. They are not used in greenhouses, as flower production is hydroponic. The team considered very valuable the achieved beneficts (environmental, economic, social); a special enfhazis is put on the networking skills. Lessons learned Transferability of the results and methodology is real, due to some similarities among regions and countries (e.g. among north Portugal and Galiza/Spain). The technological innovation through demonstrations is a vehicle to interact with other EU Projects were the problematic is similar. The valorization of forest biomass for heating greenhouses brings together forest owners, forestry companies and agribusinesses around the use of a natural resource, renewable energy and which is currently little used economically, in accordance with the principles of the circular economy. This approach, which values the forest and reduces energy costs of companies, calls the attention to: a) Lack of more efficient collection, planning and transport models forest biomass; b) Lack of more adapted and automated machines to reduce costs, increase safety and reduce operator effort forestry, during the collection and pre-processing of biomass and to c) Lack of resizing, adaptation or alteration of greenhouse heating equipment for the use of biomass forestry chip, increasing efficiency and reducing costs energy. Contact information [email protected] Links to website/report/video https://gotecfor.pt/publications Pictures ITHub 5 - 16 Title of innovation New and innovative cultivation methods of highly productive apples adapted to northern climates ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) EFI Operational Group (short name) Commercial productive apple growing in a northern climate – innovation for new climate resilient agriculture in northern Europe Operational Group (name) Commercial productive apple growing in a northern climate – innovation for new climate resilient agriculture in northern Europe – om högproduktiv odling av äpple i nordliga klimat Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) All stakeholders have multiple expertise, especially in horticulture and plant production, beyond the expertise of the organisation they represent. 1 county administrative board of the region, 1 food company, 1 technology development company, 1 nursery, 1 wholesale company, 1 NGO, 1 gardener. (fruiting shoots, seeds) and to plant the seedlings, in the form of a participatory worksite with farmers interested in the approach. In order to preserve the Perche bocage, it is necessary to maintain and create new linear hedgerows. The technique most commonly used is plantation by landscape companies. However, there are a number of limitations to this approach, such as the unsuitability of plants (linked to the question of origin) in the local context, the difficulty of obtaining materials, the increased cost of planting and the difficulty of obtaining fundings. It is to overcome these obstacles that assisted natural regeneration of the hedge (or semispontaneous hedge) may prove to be an alternative to planting operations. The Parc Naturel Régional du Perche has therefore set itself the objective of raising awareness and promoting this practice among farmers, in particular by organising meetings in the field. A technical itinerary for setting up a semispontaneous hedge was drawn up by an external consultant, Sylvaloir, and given to the participants. The test was carried out on two linear routes with contrasting contexts, for a total length of 124 metres. The test was carried out over two days. The first day was used to identify the seed trees present and the quantity of fruiting bodies, as well as to prepare the site. The second day was used to lay out the plant material (fruiting shoots, seeds) and to plant the seedlings, in the form of a participatory worksite with farmers interested in the approach. Lessons learned This project has enabled the Park to build up its skills in this field, fulfilling its ambition to be an area of experimentation. This practice has an economic advantage, but despite the interest in the subject, participation in the participative worksite was low. The methodology used could also be improved, particularly in the context of the "Normandie hedgerow" call for expressions of interest. There are two threats to its development, however: firstly, the length of time it takes to install a hedge may dissuade project owners who want to have a "standard hedgerow" quickly, and secondly, the subsidy schemes do not include this alternative practice. Contact information Mrs Florence SBILE ([email protected]) Links to website/report/video Pictures ITHub 5 - 20 Title of innovation Trees and forests on mountain farms: measuring performance and innovating to support the evolution of Pyrenean grassland systems ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) CNPF Operational Group (short name) AGROSYL Operational Group (name) AGROSYL : Trees and forests on mountain farms: measuring performance and innovating to support the evolution of Pyrenean grassland systems Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) Farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors Link from OGs database https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/find-connect/projects/agrosyl.html Country, region, city France, Occitanie Type of innovation Process Keywords Farming/Forestry competitiveness and diversification, agroforestry Approach and main results Over the years, agriculture and forestry have undergone a certain split which has led to spaces being specialized (mechanization, reduction in the workforce) in their uses. However, agroforestry is experiencing renewed interest among farmers, especially in large crops where it fulfills several objectives: thermal regulation, fight against erosion, preservation of biodiversity, production of timber, energy wood or fruits, heritage vision… Agroforestry and silvopastoralism have their place in livestock farming, particularly within an extensive mountain or foothill suckling cattle system. Their development is still little observed in the field while the forest can provide great services to livestock breeders: production of animal bedding, contribution to food and fodder autonomy (supplements with forest fruits and fodder on the ground), diversification of marketed production and sources of income (sale of wood). Without forgetting environmental benefits such as reduction of erosion, nitrogen absorption or animal welfare. AGROSYL aimed to promote innovative agricultural practices linked to forests and wood. The project was structured around four experiments: creation of a technical silvopastoral route; establishment of white mulberry trees as fodder trees; study of the impact of wood mulch as bedding on animal welfare and analysis of the productive potential of fruit trees (oaks, chestnuts, cherry trees, hazel trees) after selective thinning in the stands. Each experiment took place in three stages:• Construction of a system for experimenting with technical solutions: diagnostics with groups of farmers, state of the art on proven solutions and implementation of pilots. • Capitalization of results: monitoring-evaluation of pilots, marketing study (commercial development potential), comparison with similar projects, construction of a support offer (agrosylvopastoral advice). • Dissemination of results and implementation of innovations: coordination of OG, dissemination, awareness and training among farmers and advisors. The silvopastoralism experiment was carried out on three farms. The objective was for the owners of the settlements to reclaim their forests by grazing their animals there. 27 plots per farm were created in order to measure the evolution of forage resources on the ground. Main findings: the forage resource becomes established from the 3rd year and the forest cover regains space over the same period of time. 5,000 white mulberry plants were planted on 0.25 ha at GAEC Authier in 2017. For material reasons, ensiling the mulberry harvest to give it to livestock was not satisfactory. The farmer therefore integrated the plot of mulberry trees into the livestock's grazing route in order to manage the grass cover before the plants explode. When the grass reserves run out during periods of extreme heat, the mulberry plants take over. The wood mulching experiment was carried out within two GAECs. No significant difference was observed between the two types of mulching (pure straw and mixture) on the behavior of the livestock. The visual appearance of the cleanliness of the livestock is much better on litter with a pad underlay, although the appearance of the litter itself is dirtier. Finally, the fruit experiment was carried out in parallel with the silvopastoralism experiment on a farm. The partners noted that the plots having undergone the greatest removal of stems (40% compared to 30% and 0% for the control block) produced the most fruits. Lessons learned For farmers, the project offered a support framework to appropriate and implement agroforestry and silvopastoral practices. For forest owners, AGROSYL made it possible to get closer to breeders and to implement silvopastoral practices in their forests. For advisors, the project defined a prototype of agro-sylvo-pastoral advice that could be applied in their territories. For research institutes, the project provided references acquired through the monitoring of pilot sites, on a subject bringing innovation. The white mulberry seems to be adapted to many soils and pedoclimatic contexts and resistant to drought. For some breeders, wood mulch represents an alternative to straw from cereal producers, the purchasing costs of which are high. The continuation of the project consists in particular of supporting breeders who own wood to integrate silvopastoralism. It is also desirable to continue the production of knowledge on fodder trees by adopting new planting methods as well as other types of livestock farming. Contact information Nelson Guichet , CA09 [email protected] Links to website/report/video Pictures ITHub 5 - 21 Title of innovation Biological control of Chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica) by virus infection (hypovirulence) ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) USC Operational Group (short name) CASTANEA Operational Group (name) Operational group for the valorization of the Extremadura chestnut tree Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) 3 farmer associations, 1 company, 1 research center and 1 University Link from OGs database http://gocastanea.eu/ Country, region, city Spain, Extremadura Type of innovation Process Keywords Agroforestry, forest degradation, Sustainible Forest Management Approach and main results Agroforestry with chestnuts is a traditional land use system in North West Spain where this type of trees are widely affected by the chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica). This tree disease is characterized by affecting the aerial part of chestnut trees, destroying the tissues in the trunk and branches. Studies carried out within the framework of the CASTANEA operational group indicate that this chestnut disease is also a serious problem in some regions of Extremadura (southwest of Spain). Therefore, it is necessary to find effective methods of control for this destructive disease of chestnut trees. One of the objectives of the CASTANEA operational group was to design biological control strategies for chestnut blight disease with hypovirulent strains in Extremadura. In this context, it should be noted that hypovirulence is a condition in which the blight fungus itself gets sick by a virus (hipovirus CHV-1), which can be spread from one fungus to another. The results of the CASTANEA operational group indicate that an effective protocol to carry out a biological control of the chestnut blight with hypovirulent strains in a specific area has to follow these phases: i) Determination of the Vegetative Compatibility Groups (VCG) present in the area through the sampling of affected trees, isolation of the fungus and analysis of the VCG in the laboratory, ii) Determination of the MAT types (mating types) present in the area because the presence of both MAT types can favor sexual reproduction, which complicates the establishment of hypovirulence, iii) Establishment of hypovirulent strains compatible with the VCGs in the area, which will be selected for their white color and the presence of the virus will be confirmed with molecular analysis, iv) Production of the hypovirulent inoculum taking into account the VCG and MAT present in the area, v) Application of treatments in the field by bringing the hypervirulent strain into contact with the virulent one through scratches or perforations in the tree bark. Lessons learned 1. The VCG present in chestnut plantations in Cáceres have been determined by the CASTANEA operational group. In the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara region there is a clear predominance of a VCG, while in the regions of Valle del Jerte and La Vera there is more diversity. 2. The MAT types present in the different areas have been determined by molecular analysis. 3. A hypovirulent strain of VCG predominant in the area (EU-11) has been detected by the CASTANEA operational group in Villuercas-Ibores-Jara. 4. Experimental treatments with hypovirulent strains are needed and for this reason a experimental treatment has been initiated by the CASTANEA operational group in Villuercas-Ibores-Jara region. Contact information María Rosa Mosquera-Losada (mrosa.mosquera.losad[email protected]) and Nuria Ferreiro-Domínguez (nuria.ferr[email protected]s) Links to website/report/video http://gocastanea.eu/ Pictures ITHub 5 - 22 Title of innovation Manual of recommendations for an efficient use of water in chestnut groves ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) USC Operational Group (short name) CASTANEA Operational Group (name) Operational group for the valorization of the Extremadura chestnut tree Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) 3 farmer associations, 1 company, 1 research center and 1 University Link from OGs database http://gocastanea.eu/ Country, region, city Spain, Extremadura Type of innovation Service Keywords Agroforestry, forest degradation, Sustainable Forest Management, mitigation to climate change Approach and main results The chestnut tree is sensitive to water deficit in the summer period. In Extremadura (Southwest of Spain), the new chestnut plantations, some of them with an agroforestry use, are established with patterns and varieties that are demanding in water. Therefore, in this region of Spain and in taking into account the current scenario of climate change, it is necessary to irrigate the chestnut trees since the water available during the summer is usually limited and irregular. Moreover, it is important to highlight that an efficient use of irrigation water in the chestnut groves must be taken into account: the water needs of the chestnut trees and what are the moments in which it is important to guarantee that the tree has all the water it needs. One of the objectives of the CASTANEA operational group was the implementation of techniques to mitigate water stress in chestnut groves associated with climate change. The results show that if there is not enough water to cover all the needs of the chestnut grove, good water status of the tree must be maintained in the periods in which drought can reduce the production and/or calibre of the chestnuts in the current or subsequent production campaigns. Moreover, localized irrigation systems seem to be the most suitable systems for irrigating chestnut groves, as they provide irrigation water where the tree can use it. Both drip irrigation and micro-sprinklers are suitable for chestnut groves irrigation, however, micro-sprinklers imply a higher need for water than drip irrigation since in the case of micro-sprinklers, water losses due to evaporation must be compensated. On the contrary, in shallow soils, micro-sprinklers may be a suitable option. Finally, it is important to know the water status of the tree to know if the irrigation is adequate. A method to know the water status of the tree could be visual appreciation since a stressed tree presents a series of visible symptoms (slowing of the growth of shoots and young leaves, change in the angle of the leaves, yellowing, premature fall of mature leaves...). However, the problem of visual appreciation is that this method is subjective and requires a lot of experience and it is very difficult to assess the level of stress that trees endure. An alternative to know the water status of the tree could be to measure the water potential of the trunk during the solar noon through a pressure chamber. This method is easy to use and a numerical value is obtained that can be interpreted using reference values. Lessons learned Some lessons learned were: 1. Subsoil the soil before planting chestnut trees, to improve the water retention capacity of soil, facilitate drainage, increase porosity and permeability, and facilitate the development of the root system 2. Carry out a good design and execution of the irrigation installation 3. Use a spot or drip irrigation system 4. Use a programmer and volumetric water meter to make good irrigation programming 5. Take care of the cleaning and maintenance of the irrigation system, and periodically check that everything is working correctly 6. Choose an appropriate irrigation equipment based on the soil type 7. Place the drippers in the projection of the tree crown, where the absorbing roots are located 8. Adjust the number of drippers according to the growth of the tree 9. Water new plantings to avoid stress 10. Avoid applying excess water on chestnut trees 11. Maintain a good water status of the tree in the last period of fruit growth until the end of the harvest and 12. if water is available, apply prolonged irrigation to recharge the profile at the beginning of the growing cycle when the spring has been dry and also when the rapid growth of chestnuts begins Contact information María Rosa Mosquera-Losada (mrosa.mosquera.losad[email protected]) and Nuria Ferreiro-Domínguez (nuria.ferr[email protected]s) Links to website/report/video http://gocastanea.eu/ Pictures ITHub 5 - 23 Title of innovation School of Agroforestry ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) UNIFI Operational Group (short name) NEWTON Operational Group (name) Agroforestry Network in Tuscany Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer Farms, research groups, communication company, national forest certification systems (PEFC) interests groups or other NGOs) Link from OGs database https://www.innovarurale.it/it/pei-agri/gruppi-operativi/bancadati-gopei/network-lagroselvicoltura-toscana Country, region, city Tuscany, Italy Type of innovation Organisational innovation Keywords Agricultural production system, Farming practice, Climate and climate change, Agroforestry, sustainability Approach and main results The NEWTON project promotes traditional agroforestry knowledge and innovative solutions for the implementation of sustainable agroforestry systems with a participatory approach. From 3 to 7 October 2022, at Tenuta di Paganico was held the agroforestry school. It was organized in five training module-days based on classroom lessons and field visits. The topics covered during the days were: agroforestry and forestry systems; forestry management and grazing; soil; certification and marketing. The school involved 38 stakeholders, and it saw in particular the participation of many young farmers who are environmentally aware and interested in agroforestry as a strategy for more sustainable farm management. Lessons learned The school was a great success, particularly because many interested stakeholders were involved. The critical point that emerged was the lack of economic data to support the (possible) adoption of agroforestry. From the meetings with the main actors involved it emerged that agroforestry is a promising system to contrast the abandonment of agricultural land and therefore maintain farmers’ presence in the internal and/or marginal areas while generating income. A further result was the raised awareness by the actors involved of the importance of social and economic sustainability. That is a fundamental aspect for the application of more sustainable cropping systems in the next years, in order to mitigate climate change and make agroecosystems more resilient to changing conditions. Contact information Solaria Anzilotti (solaria.[email protected]) Links to website/report/video https://gonewton.it Approach and main results In order to assess the environmental impact of semi-extensive beef cattle breeding, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis was carried out. Based on the results obtained from the LCA analysis and the evaluation of forest CO2 absorption, it was possible to determine that the impact of semi-wild cattle breeding of the Maremma breed emits 8.05 kg of CO2 eq per kg of live weight of cattle. In addition, it was estimated that the forest ecosystem was able to offset 66% of emissions in the form of climate-altering gases through the carbon stock in tree tissues. The exploitation of additional fodder resources (herbaceous and shrubby woodland) in addition to pasture and hay makes it possible to increase growth by reducing the animal farm residence. Furthermore, the diversification of fodder reduces the dependence on cereals with consequent economic and environmental benefits. The presence of trees reduces heat stress, makes it possible to maintain stable ingestion and growth levels even during the summer period, thus improves animal welfare. Lessons learned It’s important to be careful with livestock load so as not to overload the system, but overall, silvopastoralism offers multiple benefits. The life cycle analysis showed that enteric methane emissions are partially mitigated by the carbon sequestration of the forests of the farmland. Contact information Solaria Anzilotti (solaria.[email protected]) Links to website/report/video https://gonewton.it Pictures THub 5 - 27 Title of innovation Evaluation of the impact of different grazing intensities of Maremma cattle on the components of the agroecosystem: soil, tree vegetation (structure, natural regeneration and biodiversity) ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) UNIFI Operational Group (short name) NEWTON Operational Group (name) Agroforestry Network in Tuscany Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) Farms, research groups, communication company, national forest certification systems (PEFC) Link from OGs database https://www.innovarurale.it/it/pei-agri/gruppi-operativi/bancadati-gopei/network-lagroselvicoltura-toscana Country, region, city Tuscany, Italy Type of innovation Process Keywords Agricultural production system, Farming practice Climate and climate change, Agroforestry, sustainability Approach and main results Silvopastoralism is a widespread practice in Italy; it is often seen in the literature as a negative factor for regeneration, but the extent to which it is sustainable or not depends on the management objective and the grazing livestock load. In the course of the NEWTON project, four wooded areas were examined, specifically turkey oak stands of over 80 years of age with different livestock loads (expressed in UBA): calf grazing (2.02 UBA); high intensity cow grazing (0.50 UBA); low intensity cow grazing (0.32 UBA); ungrazed. For the analysis of the vegetation, the analysed varibles were the structure of the tree and shrub component, the quantity and quality of natural regeneration and the woody growth of the tree stand. However, in the main stand there were differences which may also be due to silvicultural interventions and high animal loads from past management. Grazing affects the understorey and the regeneration by reducing its development as the intensity of grazing increases, the biodiversity of tree and shrub species is higher in the non-grazed area. Although very often grazing in the forest is a disturbance to its regeneration, it has a positive effect on the regeneration of herbaceous species and integrates many nutrient resources for animal feeding. If the load is appropriate to the area and characteristics, the soil does not become compacted and the manure has a positive effect on soil fertility and seed germinability. In the four areas, soil quality was also characterised by applying certain chemical, physical and biological indicators. The values of biological quality, bulk density and soil permeability (Ksat) show that grazing and its intensity impact on the physical and biological quality of the soil with a trend related to animal load and grazing intensity. In general, 0.30 LU was found to be a compatible livestock load for the development of tree vegetation and soil conservation, but to be evaluated according to the forest management objective and the vegetative stage of the tree stand. Lessons learned The management objective in silvopastoral systems is key in defining the appropriate livestock load. The coexistence of sustainable forest management and grazing in the forest is possible, but with a careful integrated planning that takes equal account of both agro-pastoral and silvicultural needs, especially in the final phase of forest regeneration. Contact information Solaria Anzilotti (solaria.[email protected]) Links to website/report/video https://gonewton.it Pictures ITHub 5 - 28 Title of innovation Chestnut varieties recommended for cultivation in Extremadura (Southwest Spain) ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) USC Operational Group (short name) CASTANEA Operational Group (name) Operational group for the valorization of the Extremadura chestnut tree Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) 3 farmer associations, 1 company, 1 research center and 1 University Link from OGs database http://gocastanea.eu/ Country, region, city Spain, Extremadura Type of innovation Technological innovation Keywords Agroforestry, adaptation to climate change, production of plants Approach and main results The selection of plant material (varieties/rootstock) is a fundamental aspect for the development of agroforestry systems established on chestnut groves and must respond to multiple factors such as climate change, reconversion of the traditional chestnut groves due to the high mortality of trees, the modernization of chestnut cultivation through the implementation of new techniques and cultivation systems, as well as specialization productive towards fresh chestnut trade. Therefore, two lines of work must be developed. On the one hand, the use of rootstocks resistant to chestnut ink and thermal and water stress, and on the other hand, looking for chestnut varieties with a good aptitude for fresh marketing, staggered production and adapted to the climatic conditions of the producing area. One of the objectives of the CASTANEA operational group was to create a network of experimental plots, both new and existing, in which to carry out the characterization of plant material (traditional varieties and rootstocks) at different altitudes and areas of Extremadura (Southwest Spain). In total 4 experimental plots were established where ink-resistant hybrid rootstocks grafted with a series of selected chestnut varieties were planted to evaluate the adaptation of the rootstocks and varieties and their agronomic behaviour. These plots were planted in an intensive 5x5 m frame, with two types of rootstocks (clon 111-1 and clon 7521) and were grafted with 8 selected chestnut varieties (Verata, Pablo, Bouche de Betizac, Manolo, Judía, Calvotera, Famosa y Martainha) in 4-foot blocks per variety and rootstock, with a total of 64 plants. In the short term, the rooting of the plant, the percentage of budding with different types of grafts and the development of the grafts will be evaluated. However, in the medium and long term, these plots will be references and the production of the different varieties will be studied to be able to recommend them to chestnut growers, in terms of plant material based on accumulated and comparative knowledge. Moreover, this network of plots can be the beginning of future research and development of novel cultivation techniques for chestnut growing. Lessons learned Leaasons learned in the four experimental plots established: 1. Conclusions without taking into account the pattern: i) Bouche de Betizac is the one that reached the greatest length and Martainha the smallest, ii) Judia obtained the greatest thickness and Martainha the smallest, iii) Bouche de Betizac presented the highest percentage of yields, iv) The spike graft obtained greater length and greater thickness than the awake bud graft 2. Conclusions on the 111-1 pattern: i) Bouche de Betizac is the one that reached the greatest length and Martainha the shortest, ii) Famosa was the one that reached the greatest thickness and Martainha the shortest, iii) The spike graft presented the highest percentage of attachment, iv) 111-1 had a survival rate greater than 7521, v) 111-1 had a thickness greater than 7521, vi) 111-1 had a similar percentage of attachments to 7521 3. Conclusions about pattern 7521: i) Bouche de Betizac is the one that reached the greatest length and Famosa the shortest, ii) Judia was the one that reached the greatest thickness and Famosa the shortest, iii) The spike graft presented the highest percentage of attachment , iv) 7521 had a length greater than 1111. Contact information María Rosa Mosquera-Losada (mrosa.mosquera.losad[email protected]) and Nuria Ferreiro-Domínguez (nuria.ferr[email protected]s) Links to website/report/video http://gocastanea.eu/ Pictures ITHub 5 - 29 Title of innovation Comparing pastoral and silvopastoral management on a local beef cattle breed: productivity, animal welfare and pasture depletion in a Mediterranean extensive farm ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) UNIFI Operational Group (short name) NEWTON Operational Group (name) Agroforestry Network in Tuscany Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) Farms, research groups, communication company, national forest certification systems (PEFC) Link from OGs database https://www.innovarurale.it/it/pei-agri/gruppi-operativi/bancadati-gopei/network-lagroselvicoltura-toscana Country, region, city Tuscany, Italy Type of innovation Process Keywords Agroforestry, Sustainability, Resilience, Drought, Climate change, Participatory research, Livestock, Animal welfare, Silvopasture Approach and main results The demonstrative trial conducted at Tenuta di Paganico increased knowledge of silvopastoral systems in the Mediterranean area in order to improve the management of silvopastoral farms. The demonstration trial made it possible to confirm the positive role that trees play in improving microclimatic conditions and reducing heat stress in animals. In fact, cortisol levels measured in the hair, an index of chronic stress, remained lower in animals managed in the silvopastoral system, compared to subjects kept exclusively on pasture. The group of calves managed in the silvopastoral system did, however, experience a, albeit limited, reduction in the growth rates typical of the summer months. The group of calves managed in the silvopastoral system did, however, experience areduction, although limited, in the growth rates typical of the summer months. These values therefore indicated that, during the spring period, it would be necessary to drastically limit the animals' use of the forest, both to exploit the thermoregulating power of the trees while limiting the possibility of animal movement, and to maximise the nutritional value of the fodder resources present in the pasture. This could make it possible to increase cattle growth, with positive repercussions both in economic terms and in terms of environmental impact in meat production. Lastly, the limited presence of animals in the forest during the spring period could favour the growth and development of forage and shrub resources among the trees, which can then be exploited during the summer months, a period characterised by increasing drought. Lessons learned Silvopastoral systems, being made up of different elements (forage, shrub, forest and animal components), require careful management in order to keep the system in balance, capable of perpetuating itself over time, maintaining all those ecosystem services that such a system is capable of providing. In order to enhance these management systems, the NEWTON Operations Group has suggested a number of strategies aimed at optimising production levels, maintaining high levels of animal welfare and the sustainability of the system itself, including: - monitoring and assessing the composition of the diet and its quality in the different seasons, for the various physiological phases of the animals and according to their management (silvopastoral or pastoral), - rational use of grazing during the summer period by limiting access to the forest, - use of the forest in the summer period to reduce heat stress and maintain stable growth rates. Contact information Jacopo Goracci ([email protected]) - Solaria Anzilotti (solaria.an[email protected]) Links to website/report/video Pictures ITHub 5 - 30 Title of innovation Development of a platform through sensors for pasture management in the dehesa ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) USC Operational Group (short name) GRASSEN Operational Group (name) Platform to support the management of Mediterranean pastures using nearby and remote sensors Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) 2 companies, 2 Research centers, 1 University, 1 Farmer association Link from OGs database https://cicap.es/project/go-grassen/ Country, region, city Spain, Andalusia Type of innovation Technological innovation Keywords Agroforestry, digital tools, digital platform, proximal sensing data, Remote Sensing data, satellite, smart-application Approach and main results The dehesa is the most representative agroforestry system in Europe, occupying more than 940 622 ha in Andalusia (Southern Spain). In this region, livestock is the main activity of the dehesa where pasture and acorns are the basis of livestock feeding. However, it is important to be aware that in the dehesa, the management of herbaceous pastures is not a simple task mainly due to the diversity of the soils, the presence of trees, the differentiated agricultural uses and the particularities of the Mediterranean climate. For this reason, in the dehesa it is necessary to develop pasture management tools that allow land managers to know the production and quality of the pasture in order to plan grazing, the provision of complementary feed, the pasture fertilisation or the enrichment of the seed bank. In this contex, currently, the diversity of existing and operational sensors mounted on nearby and/or remote platforms have the capacity to offer a high volume of data about the territory at low cost and with a spatial and temporal resolution appropriate to the needs of the dehesa. The aim of the operational group GRASSEN is to develop a platform to support the management of pastures in the dehesa, through the integration of information from different types of nearby and remote sensors, combined with field information. To achieve this objective, the following actions are being carried out: i) Analysis of experiences in the application of sensorisation and remote detection to pasture management in different biogeographic regions, ii) Compilation of geo-referenced data on production, structure and quality of Mediterranean pastures and forage crops in the dehesa, together with information from remote (Sentinel 1 and 2) and nearby spatial sensors (multispectral, hyperspectral sensors and Lidar data), iii) Development of mathematical models using different algorithms and machine learning techniques that allow estimating pasture production, structure and quality based on information from nearby and remote sensors, iv) Validation of the developed models in a pilot farm, taking into account the barriers that limit the application of this technology in the dehesa farms, v) Development of a prototype web platform with alphanumeric and cartographic information derived from the production, structure and quality models of the pastures and their temporal evolution, vi) Development of a mobile application to consult the information included in the web platform, vii) Demonstration of how to use the information included in the web platform to make decisions in pasture management. Lessons learned With the development of this operational group, a series of relevant results for the agroforestry sector have currently been obtained: i) List of most common pasture varieties in Andalusia, ii) Report on the main types of pastures cultivated in Andalusia, iii) Protocols of image analysis for pasture in vegetative growth through SENTINEL-2, iv) Protocols of image analysis for pasture in vegetative growth through unmanned flights and multispectral cameras, v) Action protocol to develop mathematical models that allow estimating pasture production, its structure and quality through information from nearby and remote sensors, vi) Development of mathematical models to estimate pasture production, structure and quality through information from nearby and remote sensors Contact information María Rosa Mosquera-Losada (mrosa.mosquera.losad[email protected]) and Nuria Ferreiro-Domínguez (nuria.ferr[email protected]s) Links to website/report/video https://cicap.es/project/go-grassen/ Pictures ITHub 5 - 31 Title of innovation Are short rotation coppice a solution in future regional biorafineries? ITHub 5 FOREST4EU partner (short name) CNPF Operational Group (short name) OG TCR Operational Group (name) OG TCR : Are short rotation coppice a solution in future regional biorafineries ? Type of OG's partners (farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors, businesses, environmental groups, consumer interests groups or other NGOs) Farmers, forest owners, researchers, advisors Approach and main results In great part of Southern Europe, where olive trees are grown it is expected the rise of temperatures, less precipitation with bigger periodicity, that can be characterized by less rainy days however with more precipitation, and the increase of extreme natural events, such as droughts. To combat the effects of the climate change new management practices must be explored and applied. Seven objectives were proposed to be accomplished, they were: 1 - Comparing the effect of different herbaceous soil compositions versus the control of spontaneous plant growth; 2 – Assessing the effects of different biologic residues applied as compost/fertilizer; 3 - Evaluating the use of Bio-stimulants for the plants, this meaning the use of fungi and bacteria in a symbiotic relation with the plant; 4 – Assessing the genetic varieties of olive trees in Portugal, and categorise them by their adaption the climatic conditions; 5 – Evaluating the effect of using different chemical substances in the induction of drought resistance mechanisms. The data collected in the experiments allowed the creation of scientific articles, technical articles, university thesis and outreach sessions. In the end all the information is going to be resumed in a “Manual of good practices”, this document is not yet created because some of the trials are still running. To measure the efficiency of the different studied management practices, in all the experiments different parameters were measured related to the tree physiology, growth, the properties of the soil and the quality of the produced fruit and oil. From the results available to this day, we can take some conclusions. In relation to soil cover management practices, taking in mind the climate change and the normal site conditions (Mediterranean climate, soils with low quality and depth), they should allow the development of herbaceous vegetation in the Winter (increasing the organic matter present in the soil and decreasing the risk of erosion) and limit the expansion of the vegetation from the beginning of the Spring, in this way controlling the competition for water. From the different management practices studied, two of them comply with the objective explained above. The use of leguminous plants soil cover with a short cycle allows the protection of the soil from erosion, the increase in organic matter, the increase in nitrogen deposition, and at the same time since it as a short cycle the competition for water does not occur in the driest period. The use of herbicide after the spontaneous vegetation sprouts, in the beginning of the Spring, also add the best results since it fulfils the objectives of soil protection and reduced water competition. The most common soil management practice, low depth tillage, didn’t fulfil the criteria since it cuts the roots of the trees reducing their capacity to absorb water, and at long term it decreases the quality of the soil, since it becomes more susceptible to erosion. In relation to the use of mycorrhizae fungi, it was verified the increase in plant growth and resilience to dry condition. This was achieved because this symbiotic relationship allows an increase in nutrient mobilisation inside the soil and bigger water capturing area (since the mycelium net works as a “second root system” for the plant). Other benefits are the decrease of the impact from toxicity of heavy metals and the increase tolerance of plants to the soil salinity. The use of nitrogen fixation microorganisms had good results, allowing an increase of available nitrogen present in the soil. The use of abscisic acid (ABA) as a foliar pre-treatment had good results in increasing drought tolerance and recovery capacity. Under water deficit conditions, ABA is responsible to control stomatal closure, hydraulic conductivity, and root development. When applied to the leaves of the plant, it attenuated the drought induced decline in biomass production, induced root growth and enhanced water use efficiency. Lessons learned In Portugal one of the productions that is going to be most affected by the climate change is the olive production, since most, around 90%, of the area of this trees species are grown in rainfed systems. The shift in climate conditions is expected to impact the physiology of the trees, reducing their production, increasing the variability of annual production, and increasing the severity of the damages caused by pests and diseases. Finding an alternative solution such as irrigation is not a feasible solution since the availability and quality of water is going to decrease in the coming years. The solution is to use management practices compatible with the climate, that increase the performance of the production systems, maintain/increase the soil qualities, and keep the trees in good vigour, decreasing their susceptibility to pest and diseases. Contact information [email protected] Links to website/report/video Pictures FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project forest4eu.eu [email protected] Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. PARTNERS