Bio Institute in Raumberg-Gumpenstein
The organic institute of the Raumberg-Gumpenstein teaching and research center is Austria’s organic research center for alpine organic agriculture.
The Institute of Organic Agriculture and Biodiversity of Farm Animals (Bio Institute) (Website in German only)
of the Ministry of Agriculture at the Higher Federal Teaching and Research Institute Raumberg-Gumpenstein is dedicated to issues related to organic grassland and livestock farming, arable farming, ruminant health, pig farming, as well as legal aspects of organic agriculture. Another key focus of the institute is the conservation of rare livestock breeds in Austria.
The three research locations
of the Bio Institute (Trautenfels, Wels-Thalheim, and Lambach Stadl-Paura) operate agricultural farms that are managed according to the guidelines of organic farming. In addition, these farms are also certified by Bio Austria. Through “on-farm research,” close cooperation takes place directly with farmers - special emphasis is placed on practical experience and applied knowledge. High priority is also given to applied research and the comprehensive dissemination of results (conferences, seminars, publications, et cetera).
The Bio Institute is characterized by its collaboration with national and international scientific experts, associations, official advisory bodies, teachers, and farmers. The results of the institute’s work support strategies and farming practices that promote soil fertility, biodiversity, health, regionality, and quality. Through innovation, research and implementation activities contribute to sustainable agricultural development in ecological, economic, and social terms.
Resource Efficiency – A Cross-Institutional Focus
Limited natural resources such as water, soil, and air can be used more efficiently through knowledge, experience, and innovation. Rapid changes in energy and raw material supply, climate, water resources, fertile soils, and the continuing growth of the global population all have significant impacts on agriculture. In organic farming research, the staff of the Bio Institute focus on management practices that promote soil fertility, health, quality, and sustainability, aiming for site-adapted agriculture with minimized external inputs and responsible use of resources.