Together for practical research: The PFN Winter Conference 2025
06.+07.02.2025 | EVENT
On 6. and February 7, 2025, numerous committed members of the Hesse practical research network came together in Herbstein for the winter conference. For two days, the focus was on exchange, cooperation and the further development of practical research.
Exchange, reflection and further development
The event kicked off with a welcome address, a review of the past year and insights into the further development of the PFN. The participants then went straight into group work: in several work phases, they explored their projects in greater depth, discussed challenges and developed new approaches.
A particular highlight of the first day was the specialist lecture by Matthias Peter (Schnittstelle Boden GmbH) on the subject of “Soil and water protection in practice”. In his lecture, Peter presented measures for groundwater protection, erosion control and soil protection, among other things. He emphasized that rising nitrate levels in drinking water are a major problem and that cooperation between agriculture, local authorities and water suppliers plays a crucial role.
In the subsequent group work, the participants dealt intensively with the question of what deficits and fields of action exist and which measures really have an impact in practice. The focus was on approaches such as N fertilizer optimization, extended greening periods on arable land and optimized fertilizer application. One farmer from the panel commented: “I recommend that every farm take Nmin samples from the soil. The costs for this can be saved on fertilizer.”
The topic of soil erosion also generated lively discussions. Peter made it clear that soil erosion not only reduces soil fertility, but also leads to long-term damage. Among the effective measures he presented were erosion control strips, mulch sowing and tramline greening. Nevertheless, the challenge remains great: “Change happens incredibly slowly,” says Peter, referring to his 30 years of consulting experience.
Many used the evening for an informal exchange – an opportunity to network, share experiences and gather new ideas.
Organic farming as a driver of innovation – words of welcome from State Secretary Michael Ruhl
A particular highlight of the second day was the visit by State Secretary Michael Ruhl, who expressly praised the work of the PFN. He emphasized the importance of the network for agriculture and particularly praised the fact that the impetus here comes directly from practice. This approach is remarkable and contributes significantly to the further development of agriculture.
Organic farming also played a central role in his remarks. It is not only important in its own right, but also provides valuable insights that benefit the entire agricultural sector. Overall, the importance of research and innovation for sustainable agriculture was emphasized.
With a view to the future of the PFN, he emphasized that the network makes an important contribution to the objectives of the state government. Despite financial challenges, it is a valuable initiative whose continuation should be supported beyond 2025.
From practice for practice
The welcoming speeches were followed by a large exchange and presentation round under the motto “Out of passion for a strong agriculture”, in which current developments from the PFN were presented. The results and discussions presented made it clear how valuable cooperation within the network is.
The winter conference ended with a group photo and a final lunch – with lots of new ideas, strengthened networks and a clear vision for the future of PFN Hessen.
