Practice Abstract - Research and innovation

An Efficient Manure collecting and utilization system

Mountain agriculture in Romania is mostly carried out traditionally, in an extensive system, characterized by small farms with low production. For this reason, these farms must be oriented towards quality and efficiency. The most common problems faced by farmers are difficulties accessing financing instruments, reluctance to join cooperatives, groups of producers to ensure a unitary production, possibilities to create storage, processing and marketing infrastructure, as well as reduction of operating expenses. The mountainous area of Romania is a supplier of quality food raw materials. This aspect can be well exploited in the long term, primarily due to the increase in demand for products obtained from sustainable agriculture and coming from a territory that preserves a wide biodiversity. 

The Valean family, farmers from the village of Spermezeu, Bistrița-Năsăud county and members of the Cooperative Somes- Tibles-Meles have built a business focused on raising 13 cows of the Baltata Romaneasca breed, for meat and milk production, working an area of 15 hectares of land, of which 13 are dedicated to pastures. 

Being aware of the limited workforce and the importance of protecting the environment, the Valean family made a responsible choice, investing in building a modern and efficient stable. This innovative stable significantly reduces the farmers’ work by implementing an efficient system for manure collection. 

The integrated manure collection and utilization system contains the following elements: manure collection platform and compost management equipment (tractor and dumper). 

Source Project
Grazing4AgroEcology - European Network to promote grazing and to support grazing-based farms on their economic and ecologic performances as well as on animal welfare
Completed | 2022-2026
Main funding source
Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
Geographical location
Germany, Ireland, Sweden, Netherlands, Italy, Portugal, Romania, France
Project details