Schneewinkel

Intensive apple cultivation, as practised particularly in the valleys of the Adige Valley and Vinschgau, results in relatively species-poor flora and fauna. For some time now, various initiatives in the region have been attempting to counteract this situation, particularly in organic fruit growing. Among others, the VIP (Association of Vinschgau Fruit and Vegetable Producers) has set itself the goal of increasing biodiversity on its members' land. The aim of the Schneewinkel project is to use concrete biodiversity-promoting measures in a clearly defined area to increase our understanding of how we can promote biodiversity in intensive apple cultivation. At the same time, the agronomic component is also to be investigated. Ultimately, the aim is to find a production model that reconciles both ecological and economic criteria. The project combines the implementation of biodiversity-promoting measures with a parallel survey of biodiversity and various agronomic parameters. Measures that have already proven successful elsewhere are being implemented. Measures may affect peripheral and boundary areas (e.g. hedges, individual trees, dry stone walls), but they may also be implemented within the area itself (e.g. sowing). The agronomic evaluation of the measures is carried out with regard to various harmful organisms (e.g. brown marmorated stink bug). Communication is also essential for the project, both internally, i.e. with cooperative members and landowners, and externally, i.e. with the general public. The Schneewinkel area is also intended to serve as a place where new approaches can be demonstrated and discussed with various stakeholders.