The two-day program covered a broad spectrum, from modern grazing strategies and alpine and extensive grazing systems to technological innovations, biodiversity issues, and the challenges of climate change. International experts presented research findings and practical experience on topics such as animal welfare, pasture management, virtual fencing, drone use, agro-photovoltaics, climate-adapted grazing systems, and management practices that promote biodiversity. The subsequent discussions impressively demonstrated the strong interest in interdisciplinary knowledge exchange.
A particular highlight was the extensive poster session with over 30 scientific presentations. The work presented ranged from population development and parasite management to biodiversity and humus formation, as well as GPS-guided grazing systems, satellite data applications, and innovative concepts for animal husbandry. The short presentations and subsequent discussions offered participants numerous opportunities to exchange information on current research projects and to initiate new collaborations.
The excursion to the Moarhof organic teaching and research farm also generated considerable interest. At several stations, current research and development projects on technology, animals, and plants were presented. These practical insights facilitated a direct exchange between science and agricultural practice. The professional program was complemented by a joint evening program at Lake Grundlsee. During the convivial evening, students from the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein provided excellent entertainment and contributed to a particularly pleasant atmosphere. The event offered additional opportunities for personal conversations, professional discussions, and the strengthening of international contacts.
The conference made it clear that pasture farming can make a significant contribution to sustainable and resilient agriculture. At the same time, it became evident that the challenges posed by climate change, societal demands, and economic conditions can only be successfully met through intensive collaboration between research, advisory services, and practical application.
The HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein would like to thank all speakers, poster authors, and the numerous participants from Germany and abroad for their valuable contributions. The intensive exchange of knowledge, the many technical discussions, and the newly established contacts made the 2026 International Grazing Conference a resounding success and provided important impetus for the further development of sustainable grazing practices.
We are already looking forward to the next International Pasture Conference in 2028 in Luxembourg, where the cross-border exchange on current challenges and innovations in pasture farming will continue.
You can download the conference proceedings with the complete contributions of the lectures and poster presentations here:
Pictures
Team
Dr. Margit Velik
Cattle fattening and product quality
Priv. Doz. Dr. Andreas Steinwidder
Leitung Forschung & Innovation
Dr. Elfriede Ofner-Schröck
Institute leadership Organic Farming & Livestock Biodiversity
Dr. Julia Schoiswohl
Animal husbandry, animal welfare and herd management
Johann Häusler
Cattle fattening and product quality