Successful Study Tour to Slovakia Showcased Soil-Friendly Farming Practices!

The study tour to Slovakia, organized on October 7 by the ITE, the Slovak Bioeconomy Cluster, and the Soil-X-Change project, attracted great interest. The event introduced participants to the latest practical solutions in soil-friendly and regenerative agriculture. Its goal was to allow attendees to see firsthand how sustainable technologies can be successfully applied in everyday farming.

The group visited two farms in Patince and Tvrdošovce, where farmers are experimenting with no-till soil cultivation and innovative sowing technologies. At the organic poppy farm of Bálint Pém, participants learned about the specific features of organic cultivation and had the chance to taste locally made poppy-based specialties. Afterwards, at the farm of Tamás Boros, they attended a live demonstration of the BORY 400–800 series direct seeders. In addition to showcasing the seeding innovations, the discussion also covered practical methods for preserving soil moisture.

At both farms, the hosts emphasized that the recent years’ severe soil moisture deficit and low rainfall have posed serious challenges for producers. Farmers are continuously seeking ways to maintain viable and sustainable production while adapting to changing climatic conditions. They also pointed out that the unpredictability of the grain market makes decision-making increasingly difficult—each year it becomes harder to foresee which crops will be profitable in the coming season.

Participants agreed that the study tour was extremely useful and inspiring. They took home many practical experiences and ideas they can apply in their own operations. Several attendees also expressed interest in joining similar professional programs in the future, highlighting that such meetings play an important role in community building and knowledge sharing among those working in agriculture.

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