Farms are complex systems in which soil, water, plants, animals and people are closely interlinked. At the same time, every farm is unique in terms of its location, history, areas of operation and the people involved. Consequently, drought, heat, heavy rainfall, new pests or economic pressures have varying effects on individual farms. Standardised solutions therefore often fall short.
The project draws on the understanding, rooted in biodynamic agriculture, of the farm as a living organism and a unique entity. It uses this understanding to observe and gain a deeper insight into farms and contemporary agricultural practices. The focus is not only on material cycles, soil, plants and animals, but also on the people on the farm, their relationships, the farm's culture, and the regional and social context.
The participatory research project on the topic of farm individuality therefore addresses the following questions:
How can farmers better recognise, understand and purposefully develop the unique characteristics of their farms? And how can a deeper understanding of these characteristics help to make their farms more resilient to climate change and other environmental, economic and social challenges?
During the first phase of the project, more than 30 farmers spent a year exploring the unique characteristics of their farms using a research journal developed specifically for this purpose. Monthly prompts on various topics, awareness exercises and reflective questions helped them to become more aware of interconnections within their own farms and to identify specific courses of action. The experiences of the 32 participating farms show that this approach can stimulate personal and operational development processes. These include, for example, new forms of collaboration, a more conscious shaping of farm culture, and adjustments to grazing, cultivation and maintenance practices.
In 2026, the research journals will be subjected to a scientific evaluation with a view to further developing the journal and other methods on the basis of practical experience. The project thus lays the foundations for establishing farm individuality as a field of research and practice, and for strengthening the resilience, quality of life and long-term viability of agricultural holdings.
Project partner
