European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) agreement No. 24-00-C0LA1602-000007
Project partners are LSFRI "Silava" (leading partner), "Andrupēni" Ltd. and AF "Eži".
Total funding of Project is 95,150.41 EUR, incl. public funding 65,905.29 EUR (70%) and private funding 28,245.12 EUR (30%).
The aim of the Study is to develop and test a prototype of a device that integrates the collection, shredding and delivery of prepared biomass from fruit tree prunings into a single system, ensuring efficient use of resources and reducing the costs of orchard maintenance. It is an experimental development based on previous research of LSFRI "Silava" on a willow plantation mowing-shredding device, which is adapted for horticultural needs in this project.
The research addresses the problems of orchard branch management associated with the increasing costs of collecting tree crown formation residues. The developed device will contribute to achieving the goals of the circular economy by reducing the amount of waste and ensuring the production of biofuel and mulch from the mass of branches.
The benefits for end users are lower orchard management costs, greater work efficiency and the possibility of using wood residues as a local renewable energy resource.
Main activities are:
- Device design and procurement of materials for the prototype;
- Prototype assembly and testing in field conditions at the AF "Eži" (at least 3 ha);
- data analysis, preparation of a publication and dissemination of results in a seminar and video format.
Achieved results:
- Technically improved and tested prototype of the device;
- Scientific publication on the testing results;
- Organized a seminar for representatives of the horticultural industry;
- Prepared an informative video on the application of the technology;
- Recommendations for the use of the device in orchards and its adaptation to other types of perennial planting care.