Field Trials 2016
All fields were sown early in May (5th – 9th). The fields were a combination of conventional and organic production methods, and were all in one region (Buskerud).
We have sown a total of 8 varieties, this includes; Cresendo, Vanilla, Eifel, Explorer, C11-0331 (new variety), Marigold, Barke and Fairytale. For organic we have 6 varieties, some of the same as for conventional, but Domen and SC44801 (new) are also included.
We have seen a promising start from these trials and will keep detailed data on the growth and production characteristics of these varieties.
As usual all data will be shared at the end of the trials, through our annual report.
Network/Community meeting
Working together to help redevelop the mating grain industry in Norway is a key aspect in our approach. There are many valuable industry specialists all working hard to improve the varieties selected, the laboratory facilities for analysis and the educational outreach for the growers, handlers, maltsters and brewers.
We hope that with time this community will provide a robust infrastructure/platform for the continued growth in interest and production of the Norwegian Malt industry.
The meeting was attended by representatives of NIBIO, NMBU, Norsk Landbruksrådgiving, Fylkesmannen and Norsk Håndverksmalt.
Our agenda for the day was centred around the field trial results from 2015 and considering how we can provide better solutions for analysing the grain in Norway.
We also discussed the Operating relationships between our organisations, outlining specific competencies that can be assigned for each partner:
- Analysis and quality testing – NMBU
- Research and development – NIBIO
- Development of the farming community and training – Norsk Landbruksrådgiving
We look forward to reviewing these relationships with time and will also try to combine funding strategies to increase the reach of this network.
Final Notes
We hope our good weather continues and are now running between our fields monitoring the performance of these new specialised varieties. If you are a grower and would like to come and see the trials please feel free to contact Halfdan Svalheim – halfdan.svalheim@handverksmalt.no and also don´t forget to use the online guide for your own reviewing of your crops.
We would also like to hear back from anyone who is growing varieties this year, that can be malted. If you are a grower, please contact us directly.
If you would like to link to this project and help in anyway we warmly welcome your advice, knowledge and future inputs. Please find us at www.handverksmalt.no
God Sommer!
M