Field trial professionals and enthusiasts in the Nordic region had a real peak last week, at least if attending the 4th Nordic Field Trials Network (NFTN) Conference in Skejby last week.
Photo: Private
In total, there were 72 participants from 7 countries – Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Latvia and Germany – representing more than 30 different organisations across research institutes, advisory services, field trial units, seed companies and technology providers.
“The broad mix of people and institutions made the conference exceptionally well attended and very valuable”, writes network coordinator Nicolai Fog Hansen in a mail after the conference.
The participants started off the conference with field visits to Danespo and Nordic Seed. That was a very strong and practical start to the programme.
Throughout the three days, there were a strong series of presentations and a lot of active discussion – both in the sessions and during the breaks, field visits and social events.
“Many of the participants commented on how useful it was to meet colleagues from other countries who work with similar practical challenges in field trials, and it was clear that the networking and informal conversations were just as important as the formal talks”, writes Nicolai Fog Hansen in his mail.
The network is currently preparing a new funding application to NKJ to continue and expand NFTN activities over the coming years. They already have agreements with Latvia (2027) and in Agriultural University of Iceland (2028) to host future NFTN conferences. More information will follow as plans and funding are confirmed – please stay tuned.
The Nordic Berry Research Network has concluded its activities with a final webinar, bringing together researchers involved in the network to summarise outcomes and discuss future collaboration within Nordic berry research.
Photo: Ville Hallikainen
The network was established to strengthen knowledge exchange and collaboration between research on wild and cultivated berries in the Nordic region. Berries play an important role in Nordic food culture, horticulture and the multifunctional use of forests, as well as in food security. The network has addressed the need to better utilise synergies between wild and cultivated berry production, which have traditionally been studied separately.
During the network period, researchers from Finland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark have focused on shared challenges related to sustainability, climate resilience, production, utilisation and market development of berries.
Network activities have included webinars, workshops and stakeholder engagement, as well as the Nordic Wild Berry Conference held in Rovaniemi, Finland, in October 2025.
The final webinar provided an opportunity to reflect on the work carried out within the network and to discuss next steps, including continued collaboration and the development of joint Nordic research initiatives.
– One key insight was that wild berry use is changing but not disappearing. Foraging remains a popular and meaningful activity, closely linked to nature, well-being, and cultural identity. Many people still pick berries themselves and value wild berries for their naturalness, taste, health benefits, and local origin. These values strongly influence which berry products people trust and buy. Understanding consumers therefore helps businesses and policymakers develop products and value chains that align with societal expectations, says Rainer Peltola, coordinator of the network and senior scientist at the Natural Resources Institute Finland.
– By bringing together diverse perspectives – from consumers and forest owners to scientists and policymakers – the network showed that the future of wild berries is not only about yields and markets. It is about values, trust, and shared responsibility. With proactive approaches, Nordic societies can ensure that wild berries continue to be a living part of forests, cultures, and sustainable economies, says Rainer Peltola.
The presentation explores the enduring significance of wild berries in the face of societal, economic, and environmental transformations. Beginning with the evolution of forest general use, the talk examines key milestones – land reforms, the development of everyone’s rights, and the rise of commercial berry picking. The presentation also delves into the need for sustainable resource management and envisions potential futures for the utilization of wild berry resources, encompassing both industrial applications and recreational aspects. Amid uncertainty, the presentation underscores that informed, proactive approaches are essential for managing change and preserving the legacy of natural product use.
Issues of labour have always encountered the development of the wild berry industry in Sweden and Finland but are today more topical than ever. The current form of the industry is dependent on foreign workers, and has been accused for labour exploitation and even forced labour. Presently, the governments of Sweden and Finland are acting to improve the situation, which has put the procedures around activities of labour import in the wild berry industry to the test. This presentation introduces challenges of labour in the wild berry industry in Sweden and Finland and brings some future issues of labour migration to the table of discussion.
This presentation examines Swedish consumers’ perspectives on wild berries, with a particular focus on wild bilberries. It highlights why understanding consumer attitudes and values is essential for developing sustainable and trusted wild berry markets. Foraging remains an important cultural practice in Sweden, closely connected to nature, well-being, and everyday traditions. Consumers value wild berries for their naturalness, health benefits, taste, and authenticity, and often associate wild berry products with quality and sustainability. These perceptions play a key role in shaping product development and market acceptance. Building a sustainable wild bilberry market therefore requires aligning ecological responsibility, transparent value chains, and consumer expectations. By integrating consumer perspectives into research, policy, and market development, stakeholders can actively shape the future of wild berries.
The tradition of wild berry harvesting in Norway has deep roots, initially serving as a vital food source and, more recently, transitioning into a recreational activity. This shift aligns with the growing interest in local, sustainable food sources. Despite this, Norway’s infrastructure for picking, receiving, and storing these berries lags behind that of neighboring countries. Yet, the demand for Norwegian wild berries in various product lines is high. To address the need for a consistent supply of high-quality berries, research has been conducted on predictive models and mapping for optimal berry locations and yield estimations. Innovation and research have primarily focused on cultivating wild berry stands and studying the environmental impact on flowering, yield, and quality. Over time, new products have emerged, and many perceive potential in developing nature-based tourism. Towards the end of the presentation, potential business prospects will be discussed.
Collaborations and shared insights across the Nordic countries are advancing understanding of how cover crops can improve soil health, reduce environmental impacts, and support climate change mitigation.
Physical meeting in Copenhagen, visiting field trials at KU. Photo: Ievina Sturite
Cover crops are widely used to reduce soil erosion and nitrate leaching, thereby improving water quality. Research has also shown that they can increase soil organic carbon stocks, enhance soil health, and contribute to net CO₂ sequestration in soils, supporting climate change mitigation efforts.
The Nordic research network CoverCropsNordic was established to strengthen synergies in research on cover cropping strategies for a more sustainable agriculture and food sector in the Nordic region. By bringing together expertise from multiple countries, the network has improved the shared understanding of both trade-offs and synergies linked to the many impacts of cover crops, while also laying the groundwork for future joint activities and research projects.
Recent research initiatives in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden – including CatCap in Denmark, CAPTURE and CropDrive in Norway, and several long- and short-term experiments in Sweden – have provided valuable insights into similarities and differences in cover crop performance across Nordic climate zones, soils, and cropping systems. These comparisons have enabled discussions on key trade-offs and synergies, such as crop yield levels and stability, nutrient replacement and legacy effects, nutrient leaching, erosion control, and climate impacts.
To share knowledge and identify remaining challenges, the network organised a series of digital webinars that brought together researchers and stakeholders from across the Nordic region. A physical meeting in Copenhagen further highlighted the importance of combining new scientific knowledge with practical experience to maximise the positive effects of cover cropping.
The network also organised a PhD course at SLU, bringing together 20 doctoral students and demonstrating strong interest in advancing research-based solutions for climate change mitigation in Nordic agriculture.
The adoption of cover crops has already resulted in improved soil health, increased biodiversity, and other climate-related benefits. The network’s joint synthesis of knowledge will be published in a review paper on cover crops in the Nordic countries. This publication will provide a solid foundation for recommendations on optimal cover crop strategies, supporting both environmental regulations and farmers’ practices across the Nordic region.
How can bioenergy contribute to a more sustainable and secure energy future in the Nordic region? This question brought together experts, researchers, and stakeholders in Copenhagen for a workshop organised by Nordic Energy Research.
Bioenergy plays a key role in ensuring Nordic energy security and in driving the green transition. Within the Bioenergy Value Chain Programme, researchers and practitioners are exploring solutions where waste products from various biomass value chains can strengthen the reliability and availability of green energy. Transparency in areas such as the origin of CO₂ sources and responsible land use is also crucial to build public trust in bioenergy solutions.
The Nordic countries have much to gain from collaboration. Their strengths complement each other — in biomass resources, energy efficiency, circular use of materials, and industrial know-how. By joining forces, the region can develop stronger, more sustainable energy systems.
The workshop addressed both the opportunities and challenges of turning biomass into energy, with perspectives ranging from farming, forestry, and biodiversity to biogas production, biofuel refining, and carbon capture. Participants also had the opportunity to network and discuss future collaboration and funding possibilities.
The event was moderated by Lise-Lotte Terp, an expert on the Nordic and Arctic regions who specialises in facilitating cross-sectoral dialogue and collaboration.
The 4th Nordic Field Trials Network Conference is planned for January 21-23, 2026, and you can already secure your spot or propose a presentation for the program.
Place: Skejby, Denmark Time: January 21–23, 2026
The program isn’t set yet, and the registration just opened. But the organisers are very positive to another successful event. This will be the fourth field trial conference, and the three first ones have all been really appreciated. The conference is the region’s largest meeting place for field trial professionals and enthusiasts.
The program will start off with a field trip to visit inspiring partners and actors within field trials in Denmark. The two following days will be stuffed with short talks and interactive workshops, focused on all aspects of field trials. There will of course be room for networking among colleagues!
NKJ has an open call for networks in agriculture and food. We want as many nordic researchers as possible to exchange knowledge, therefore we arrange a matchmaking event for you to find new colleagues, to elaborate your scientific project further and to get inspired.
When: December 16 2025, 13.30–16.00 CET Where: Online via Zoom, link will be sent out in advance of the meeting Registration:Application form (Deadline: Dec 11th)
Welcome to join our online matchmaking event, to find out more about how to apply for funds from Nordic Agri Research (NKJ), hear from an ongoing network how they use their collaboration platform, and connect with other researchers who are looking for collaboration opportunities!
You will be inspired by an ongoing research network who will talk about what type of activities they have done, what they have achieved so far and how they have benefitted from collaborating in the Nordic region. NKJ will also inform you about the current open callthat can fund your future networking activities.
AGENDA 13.30 Welcome and presentations 13.50 How to apply for funds from NKJ – tips and tricks 14.10 Inspiration talk from an ongoing Nordic research network Nicolai Fog Hansen, Nordic Field Trial Network 14.30 Networking workshop with Malin von Essen 16.00 Finish
CONTACT
If you have any questions, send an email to
Calling all researcher networks in food and agriculture!
NKJ welcomes applications for funding to boost Nordic collaboration and spark new ideas across disciplines. The call aims to strengthen Nordic cooperation and inspire new, cross-disciplinary collaborations.
Deadline for application: 31 January, 2026 Apply by filling in the application form and sending it to
The aim of the call is to promote Nordic collaboration between researchers from agricultural and food sectors by networking activities including workshops, conferences and seminars. Transdisciplinary networks between researchers and stakeholders are encouraged.
This open call welcomes applicants from all fields of research within food and agriculture!
NKJ will host an onlinematchmaking event on December 16 2025 (information and registration here), where you will be able to connect with other researchers who are looking for collaboration opportunities. This event will also include information on the open call and an opportunity to ask questions.
To have the chance to be granted, the network should include applicants from at least three Nordic countries. Each binary gender must be represented by a minimum of 40% of the participants in the network, and NKJ welcomes applicants and participants of other genders. Young researchers should be included in the network.
Network outputs should be useful for the Nordic community and should include knowledge exchange across national borders through e.g. arranging workshops, seminars/webinars, scientific meetings or open conferences. The funding can be used to bring additional value to ongoing research projects through mentioned activities.
Successful applicants may receive funds from NKJ of up to 300.000 SEK for two years of network activities from April 2026 to March 2028, covering at most 50% of the total budget for the network. The total budget for the call is 2.500.000 SEK.
This call is open for applicants from all fields of research within food and agriculture!
The researcher network TerraNordica emphasises the urgency and opportunity for advancing soil health and agroecology in the Nordic region. It highlights the essential ecosystem services provided by healthy soils, the risks of continued degradation, and regionally adapted actions to support sustainable food systems.
The network has arranged a seminar, which gathered experts, researchers and stakeholders. They emphasized the need for regionally adapted frameworks that include policies and incentives, collaborative monitoring frameworks, and stakeholder engagement to support sustainable soil management.
“By embracing a regionally adapted agroecological approach, Nordic countries can lead the way in building resilient, climate-smart food systems rooted in healthy soils”, the network says in a policy brief, which provides a range of advice that can lead to better soil.
The advices also includes to develop a dynamic online dashboard where current state of soil health can be viewed, establish monitoring systems that reflect local soil types, and to fund interdisciplinary research – among more.
– Based on the discussions during within the TerraNordica network and the seminar we have identified knowledge gaps and future challenges, as well as policy constraints and opportunities for Scandinavian countries. This information is used for composing the policy brief on agroecology and soil health opportunities and challenges for Scandinavian conditions. The members of the network are enthusiastic about the established contacts, and we will continue this cooperation in coming related events, says Jannes Stolte, coordinator of the NKJ co-funded researcher network TerraNordica.
NKJ has a long history. But we also have a future, which starts now. As we’re celebrating our 60th anniversary this year, we’ve asked the youngest generation in our board, in what way NKJ will be of most and best use in the future.
Jónína Sigríður Þorláksdóttir, youth member of the NKJ board. Photo: Private
Jónína Sigríður Þorláksdóttir, Agricultural University of Iceland, is the youth member of the NKJ board. The position has given her insight into, and the possibility to influence, NKJ’s work with interlinking researchers in the different Nordic countries, and to make sure that scientific knowledge is used in policy making.
– An important function that NKJ could develop further is to connect research and practice, she says.
– There we could really have an impact, also when it comes to looking at why it is so difficult to achieve.
Cooperation and synergies
She also emphasizes that NKJ has an important unifying function in the research community. Making sure that the same work isn’t done over and over again in the different countries, finding possible synergies and creating opportunities to benefit from each other’s experiences across national borders saves a lot of energy and time.
– NKJ could also be an important force in making research more transdisciplinary, and in providing a more holistic perspective on the issues. NKJ could look beyond the boundaries between different research fields, see the synergies. For example, when it comes to land use, NKJ could provide a more multifunctional way of looking at it.
– We also need to interest people in agriculture and make them want to engage in the issues – more people are needed in the sector!
Climate change
The climate issue is being discussed intensely, not least in Iceland. The changing climate will bring many new questions for the agricultural sector.
– Not least the degradation of our ecosystems is an issue that will be brought to the fore. As well as how we should connect our different systems, so that we get a circular system instead of, for example, consuming at one end and handling waste after consumption at the other.
Jónína also sees resilience as an important issue for the Nordic countries, and by that she means not for the future but right now.
– We are so extremely dependent on the outside world, so how do we take small steps to ensure that, in the face of increasing conflicts or environmental change, we have sustainable systems?
Knowledge exchange outside the Nordic region
When it comes to external contacts, for example with the EU, she believes that the Nordic countries have a lot of knowledge to share with others.
– Our countries are less suited climate-wise for agriculture, in many places we have harsher conditions, so we also have experiences and knowledge based on that to share.
– NKJ is a very important pathway for this knowledge to reach the global community.
– With NKJ we have a stronger Nordic voice, and a broader and stronger knowledge base!
NKJ turns 60!With such a long experience of Nordic cooperation in the agricultural and food sector, we are now moving forward into the future. But what do we actually bring with us, and where are we heading now?
NKJ was founded in 1965, as a body for financing joint Nordic research projects in the agricultural sector. The money came from the membership fees paid by each country. Today, financing comes from both the member countries and the Nordic Council of Ministers, and the activities have both grown and changed.
Suvi Ryynänen.
– Now we finance cooperation between researchers but have no research projects of our own, says Suvi Ryynänen, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, who has been a member of NKJ’s board since 2003.
– The financing of joint Nordic projects had a great significance in the beginning, after the war, when a cross-national research collaboration was to be started. Before the EU, Nordic cooperation was the most important arena for collaboration, says Niels Götke, Head of Division at the Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education and member of the NKJ board since 2010.
The cooperation has not been limited to the Nordic region, more neighbors have over time been included in the group. More countries in the nearby area have similar conditions and issues.
– In 2012 we decided to create a new bioeconomy initiative, and at the same time the EU was working on a new bioeconomy strategy. We also brought in the Baltic States in the work, which we had not done before, says Niels Götke.
– For example Estonia is very innovative, and the Nordic and Baltic countries have much to learn from each other, says Suvi Ryynänen.
One of the points of Nordic cooperation is to make the small Nordic countries stronger together. In larger contexts we can raise our issues and give them greater weight if we speak with one voice.
– Being a springboard towards the EU and creating relevance is an important task ahead for NKJ, in order to be able to access funds from the EU’s research programs. We strengthen the Nordic voice and create important platforms, says Siri Anzjøn, who was a member of NKJ’s board between 2002 and 2023, and has worked at the Research Council of Norway.
That the Nordic position in the EU can be strengthened by cooperation, Niels Götke also agrees.
– I believe that the Nordic countries should stand much, much closer together. We have a good opportunity to influence the agendas that exist around agriculture and food. Climate and animal welfare are central themes in the Nordic countries and we could absolutely get greater focus on those issues when it comes to the EU’s framework programs.
– The Nordic countries need to make sure to work clearly politically and utilize the Nordic cooperation for that. Before the next period of the EU’s research programs, one should show that there has long been a well-functioning cooperation on agriculture in the Nordics, he continues.
That NKJ has an important function to fill and that there is much left to do is clear.
– Something that is very important going forward, in my personal opinion, is the nature agreement that the UN came up with. It says that 30% of the areas should remain intact nature. Lack of land and land use I think will only become more and more relevant in the future, says Siri Anzjøn.
Suvi Ryynänen has a background in the food sector and can see that NKJ could have a greater task there than it takes on today.
– It has been quite technical and natural science issues so far. Maybe we need to get to the social side?
– We need to change the food system, it does not work well either for us humans or for the environment as it is now, but how do we bring about change? We know what changes we need to make, but how do we get people on board and really implement it? How to do that we have not worked so much on yet.
Niels Götke believes that the way we use our financing can change and become more relevant.
– I do not think we should stop the financing of research networks, but maybe do it a bit more ad hoc, and tie it more closely to the political discussion.
But what are the needs that NKJ has filled over the years? What makes the cooperation so successful? Siri Anzjøn, at least, has an answer.
– I believe in the way of working that NKJ has; to meet and talk. There is a lot of learning in that. And also that younger people are recruited, says Siri Anzjøn.
– There is a continuity, that you build stone by stone and there is always someone who knows the history and is confident about what the way forward should be – there is almost a mentor function built into the system. It provides a great sense of security.
– You meet so many people through NKJ who know so much and have so much to pass on. You feel that you gain insight into new themes and other ways of both thinking and working, by over time building trust in a group. The culture that NKJ represents, that is Nordic cooperation at its core, she continues.
