Coaching programme on organic production in Southeast Finland

Coaching programme on organic production in Southeast Finland supports the farmers in South Karelia and Kymenlaakso to develop their know-how in organic production during the year 2014. The programme aims to improve the expertise of organic farmers, increase organic production, promote the use of organic techniques in conventional agriculture and support farmers’ independent studies. Themes covered are especially soil productivity, weed management, organic animal production, organic horticulture and co-operation. The most applicable content and actions for the programmme are planned together with the farmers and other agricultural experts at the mentioned regions. Participatory course planning, workshops and a survey are used fot that purpose.


The main target groups are agricultural entrepreneurs and farm employees in Southeast Finland either they are interested in organic production methods, converting to it or already practising organic production. Secondary target group are the persons advancing know-how in agriculture, f.e. advisors and educators.


A-ten-day-training-programme will be offered dealing both with basic and advanced issues in organic production. Furthermore peer groups gathering 5–12 farmers around certain themes will meet face-to-face and in on-line meetings to share professional experiences and to discuss with visiting experts.


Besides above mentioned and depending on the needs of the target groups some of the following will be organized: a theme seminar, field trips and study visits regionally and to other regions and a trip to the national seminar in organic food and farming.


The project is carried out by the University of Helsinki Ruralia Institute. Co-operation is done with Pro Agria, MTK Southeast and Finnish Organic Research Institute as well as with two local associations of organic farmers (Kuhilas ry and Saimaan Luomu ry).