Oats 2.0 programme takes farming to the next level while caring for nature

At Helsinki Mills, we have long considered the environmental impact of farming, and we want to become even better at managing it. Our team of experts has studied the issue from many angles and created our very own programme, Oats 2.0, which produced its first results in 2023. The programme benefits the consumer, the farmer, the mill and nature!

2023 was a historic year, as our first contract farmer, Mikko Mäki-Latvala, followed the Farming Programme 2.0 for oats throughout the growing season. The results have been positive. Gluten free oats farmers who have been piloting our original farming programme since 2022 will also move to Farming Programme 2.0 in 2024. New farms will also be added this harvest season.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT?

Oats 2.0 is based on the principle of targeted fertilisation, with the idea being to take all measures according to the plant's needs. The aim is to ensure that the fertiliser is as effective as possible in supporting crop growth, rather than just leaching into the environment. The method results in better yields and saves money by achieving higher yields with the same equipment and less fertiliser.

Under the new method, the crop grown is cleaner in terms of environmental impact and can be adjusted according to annual growth and weather conditions. Of course, Oats 2.0 will also benefit oatmeal eaters, who will have cleaner and more environmentally friendly local food on their tables.

FLOWERING PLANTS BRING JOY TO MANY

Alongside targeted fertilisation, flowering plants are at the heart of Oats 2.0 as part of the crop rotation. In addition to flowering plants, nitrogen-fixing plants and oil plant crops are included in the rotation. They improve the soil fertility of fields by keeping the soil structure loose and providing food for micro-organisms. The use of flowering plants also reduces the need for preservatives and fertilisers.

The use of flowering plants is a responsible act in other respects too, as they contribute to biodiversity by allowing pollinators and bees to enjoy the benefits of flowers. For passers-by, the fields are a sight to behold, enlivening the rural landscape. So, our programme is also a message to the world; rural areas care for nature.

ACCURATE RESEARCH MAKES SUCCESSES VISIBLE

Of course, it is also essential for a successful and credible outcome that we examine the changes brought about by the Oats 2.0 programme. A comprehensive soil analysis includes a survey of the organic matter status of the field, carbon sequestration and micronutrient status and needs.

Field scanning is used to determine the internal state of a field and its variations. In addition, the scan provides information on the need for liming and fertilisation, and also provides more detailed information on these subjects. The nutrient balance measuring gauges the efficiency of the crop and the yield response of the fertiliser application. It also shows the environmental efficiency of farming and how to improve it. As a result of the Oats 2.0 programme, soils have been shown to be more resistant to changing climatic conditions: heat, drought and water retention.

TARGETED FERTILISATION AND EXTENDED PLANT COVER ARE IN EVERYONE'S INTEREST

Extended crop cover reduces run-off, improves soil structure and increases carbon sequestration. As a result, there are more green weeks in the fields. Pollinator-friendly pest control and other plant protection products are used in the fields only when necessary. This helps to maintain the biodiversity of the fields as much as possible, reduces the amount of money spent on pest control and preserves the survival of beneficial micro-organisms.

The Oats 2.0 programme is not just about the environment. It aims to achieve better yields and high-quality cereal, whatever the season. This is essential because the farmer must also benefit from the programme. Oats 2.0 benefits the consumer, nature, the farmer and the mill - it is to the benefit of everyone. This will leave the fields in better condition than before, helping the next generation of farmers.

Välkyn kauran resepti