Sustainable Silage final conference summarized project achievements
In 08.of October 2025 more than 150 farmers, researchers, public sector representatives and other stakeholders gathered in Estonian National Museum in Tartu to hear about the main achievements of Sustainable Silage project.
The full recording of the conference is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vkemm-c_xx4&t=5864s
The first speaker was Kristiina Märs, an experienced silage specialist from the Estonian University of Life Sciences and ECAC silage expert. She told the story of Estonia’s pilot farms—how they experimented, adapted, and learned to improve feed production with more sustainable methods. Her insights painted a picture of innovation rooted deeply in practical fieldwork. Next, the spotlight shifted to Latvia. Iveta Gutmane, an agronomist with a sharp eye for technology, explained how different seeding rates and mixtures influence grassland yield and forage quality. Finland then entered the conversation through the voices of Anna Okkonen and Saara Nikander of ProAgria Western Finland. Together, they shared key findings from their country’s silage production pilots. Their presentation revealed how Finnish farms are integrating environmental awareness with strong agricultural traditions. After a brief lunch, the conference turned its attention to the environmental dimension of silage. Professor Ainis Lagzdinš, from the Latvian University of Life Sciences and Technologies, described how pile silage technology can affect water quality. His talk served as a quiet reminder that every decision made above ground eventually influences the waterways below. From there, Finnish grassland expert Anu Ellä took the audience into the world of soil health. She spoke about the latest trends in grassland management in Finland, showing how caring for the soil is not only essential for good yields, but also a cornerstone of long-term sustainability.Finally, the journey moved westward to Norway. Elin Halvorsen Sikkeland, an assistant professor at Nord University, illustrated how Norwegian farmers balance silage quality, grassland yield, and the demands of a changing climate. Her insights tied together quality, productivity, and environmental stewardship in a way that resonated strongly with the room.
As the event drew to a close, the audience left with a collective understanding: across Estonia, Latvia and Finland, the pursuit of sustainable silage management is not just a scientific challenge—it is a shared story, built from collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to a greener agricultural future.
