OH-FINE - 'Agroforestry in Practice' – Field Day in the Marchfeld Region, Austria

In what ways can agroforestry systems help farms to adapt to an increase in drought, heat and wind? An upcoming field day in the Marchfeld region of Lower Austria will bring farmers, researchers and advisors together to share practical approaches and experiences.

On 1 October 2026, FiBL Austria will organise a field day called 'Agroforestry in Practice: Microclimate, Arable Farming and Livestock in the Marchfeld Region', as part of the OH-FINE (Organic Farming Innovations Network Europe) and Bildungsinitiative Agroforst projects.

Background

The Marchfeld is one of Austria's most important arable farming regions; however, its comparatively dry climate, high summer temperatures and exposure to wind mean that adapting to climate change is becoming increasingly important. Agroforestry, which involves the deliberate integration of trees and shrubs into agricultural production systems, offers several potential benefits, including wind protection, modification of the local microclimate, increased structural diversity, and additional production opportunities.

Programme insights

The field day will give participants the chance to visit three farms that are using different agroforestry methods. At Andreas Ripfl's farm, participants will explore an agroforestry system combining arable crops with almond trees. This farm is also hosting an OH-FINE on-farm trial investigating the microclimatic effects of tree strips, focusing particularly on temperature, relative humidity and wind conditions.
At Vinzenz Harbich's farm, the focus will be on integrating livestock into agroforestry systems, as well as sharing practical experiences of combining tree and animal production. The third visit, to Daniel Stich's farm, will provide insights into a young agroforestry system incorporating fruit trees, and will introduce the potential of mulberry within such systems.
As well as presenting individual systems, the field day aims to facilitate exchange between farmers, advisors and researchers. Participants will discuss the opportunities and challenges of agroforestry, as well as its potential in the context of the dry conditions of eastern Austria.

Date: 1 October 2026
Time: 09:00–16:00
Location: Marchfeld region, Lower Austria
Registration:https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/A35tisgq0z

Detailed information on the meeting point and programme will be provided after registration.
This event offers an opportunity to move beyond discussing agroforestry in theory, experience different systems first-hand on farms, exchange practical knowledge, and connect research with farming practice.

Further information

For more information, please contact Friedrich Leitgeb.