1.2 Contact details of resource persons and institutions involved in the assessment and documentation of the Technology

Name of project which facilitated the documentation/ evaluation of the Technology (if relevant)

Name of the institution(s) which facilitated the documentation/ evaluation of the Technology (if relevant)

1.3 Conditions regarding the use of data documented through WOCAT

The compiler and key resource person(s) accept the conditions regarding the use of data documented through WOCAT:

Yes

1.4 Declaration on sustainability of the described Technology

Is the Technology described here problematic with regard to land degradation, so that it cannot be declared a sustainable land management technology?

No

2.1 Short description of the Technology

Definition of the Technology:

This organic agriculture technology combines reduced tillage with organic farming practices to enhance soil health, increase carbon sequestration, and maintain sustainable agricultural productivity.

2.2 Detailed description of the Technology

Description:

This example of organic agriculture is applied primarily in the central Poltava region of Ukraine, which is characterized by undulating plains within the Poltava Plateau. The region’s fertile chernozem soils provide an ideal environment for sustainable farming practices. These soils are predominantly deep, medium-humus, medium-loam chernozems, known for their agronomically favourable physical and chemical properties, including high organic carbon content (around 3% in the upper layer) and excellent water retention capacity. The natural fertility of these soils, combined with their relatively high nitrogen and exchangeable potassium content, underpins their suitability for organic farming.

Organic agriculture in this context combines two land management technologies (LMTs): reduced tillage and organic farming. Reduced tillage minimizes soil disturbance, which preserves soil structure and reduces erosion, while organic farming eliminates synthetic inputs and relies on crop rotations, organic fertilizers, and biological pest control to maintain soil health and ecosystem balance. The purpose of these practices is to enhance soil carbon sequestration, mitigate climate change impacts, and support sustainable agricultural productivity.

Farming is certified as a producer of organic plant products in accordance with the standards equivalent to Council Resolutions (EU) 834/2007 and 889/2008.
Under this system, shallow tillage is carried out to a depth of 4–6 cm, which helps preserve the natural structure and capillarity of the soil. It employs Horsch cultivators of the "Agrosoyuz," "Scorpion," and "Quant" models. The enterprise also extensively uses disc harrows from the French manufacturer Grégoire Besson, such as the DXRV and DXRV-HD models, which are employed for green manure incorporation. These tools operate at a precisely determined depth, regardless of the micro-relief of the field. Thus, PE "Agroecology" does not use ploughs for inversion tillage but instead prioritizes shallow tillage with cultivators and disc harrows.

The main crops grown include winter wheat, soy, corn, sunflower, and perennial herbs such as sainfoin. The combination of these crops supports soil fertility and biodiversity while maintaining agricultural productivity. Land Mitigation Technology (LMT) refers to practices and technologies designed to reduce or offset the environmental impact of land use activities. It includes strategies for restoring degraded ecosystems, preventing soil erosion, conserving biodiversity, and managing resources sustainably. LMT is often applied in agriculture, construction, and land development to balance development needs with environmental protection.

Key activities to establish and maintain the technology include transitioning from conventional to organic farming practices, adapting tillage methods to reduced-intensity operations, and maintaining organic soil fertility through natural inputs. These activities require significant initial effort and investment, including soil testing for nutrient content and organic carbon stocks, stakeholder engagement for field planning, and long-term monitoring of soil health indicators. The establishment process also involves collaboration with scientific institutions, such as ISSAR and Bioclear Earth, to ensure effective implementation and validation of the technology.

The primary benefits of this technology include improved soil structure, increased biodiversity, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and enhanced carbon sequestration. The technology has demonstrated the potential to sequester up to 0.4 t C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, with minimal yield trade-offs. Additionally, the resilience of the chernozem soils supports similar crop yields in both organic and conventional systems, thanks to their natural fertility and lower input rates in conventional agriculture. Farmers particularly value the long-term sustainability and ecological benefits of organic farming.

Land users face challenges with this technology. Transitioning to organic farming can result in temporary yield reductions, requiring adaptation in farm management practices. Furthermore, reduced tillage demands specific equipment and techniques, which may present a financial barrier for some farmers. The implementation of organic farming also requires significant effort in pest and weed management due to the absence of chemical inputs.

Overall, this form of organic agriculture represents a promising approach to sustainable farming in Ukraine, particularly in the fertile Chernozem region. Its ability to enhance carbon sequestration while maintaining comparable yields to conventional systems highlights its potential to contribute to climate mitigation and soil restoration goals. Further research and field validation are needed to refine the understanding of its impacts and optimize its implementation.

2.3 Photos of the Technology

2.5 Country/ region/ locations where the Technology has been applied and which are covered by this assessment

Country:

Ukraine

Region/ State/ Province:

Poltava region, Shishaky area

Further specification of location:

Poltava region on the left bank of the river Psyol, in 20 km from urban-type settlement Shishaky and in 80 km to the regional center Poltava

Specify the spread of the Technology:

• evenly spread over an area

If precise area is not known, indicate approximate area covered:

• 1,000-10,000 km2

Is/are the technology site(s) located in a permanently protected area?

No

Map

×

2.6 Date of implementation

If precise year is not known, indicate approximate date:

• 10-50 years ago

2.7 Introduction of the Technology

Specify how the Technology was introduced:

• through land users' innovation

3.1 Main purpose(s) of the Technology

• reduce, prevent, restore land degradation
• adapt to climate change/ extremes and its impacts
• mitigate climate change and its impacts

• chernozem productivity assessment between conventional and traditional agriculture

3.2 Current land use type(s) where the Technology is applied

Land use mixed within the same land unit:

No

Cropland

• Annual cropping

• Perennial herbs

Annual cropping - Specify crops:

• cereals - buckwheat
• cereals - wheat (winter)

Annual cropping system:

Wheat or similar rotation with hay/pasture

Number of growing seasons per year:

• 2

Specify:

Spring/Summer Season; Autumn/Winter Season

Is intercropping practiced?

Yes

If yes, specify which crops are intercropped:

Intercropping involves a combination of perennial herbs (such as sainfoin) with annual crops like buckwheat or sunflower. This practice helps optimize resource use, improve soil fertility, and enhance field biodiversity.

Is crop rotation practiced?

Yes

If yes, specify:

The crop rotation system includes a diverse mix of:
Annual crops: Buckwheat, winter wheat, soya, corn, and sunflower.
Perennial crops: Sainfoin, spelt, and other forage herbs.
This rotation is designed to Maintain soil fertility, Reduce the risk of pests and diseases, Optimize nutrient use, and Support sustainable farming practices. The rotation is adapted to the specific soil and climatic conditions of the region to ensure long-term productivity and environmental health.

3.3 Has land use changed due to the implementation of the Technology?

Has land use changed due to the implementation of the Technology?

• No (Continue with question 3.4)

3.4 Water supply

Water supply for the land on which the Technology is applied:

• rainfed

3.5 SLM group to which the Technology belongs

• improved ground/ vegetation cover
• integrated soil fertility management

3.6 SLM measures comprising the Technology

agronomic measures

• A1: Vegetation/ soil cover
• A2: Organic matter/ soil fertility
• A3: Soil surface treatment

3.7 Main types of land degradation addressed by the Technology

other

Specify:

Some water and wind erosion (but almost no erosion at all)

3.8 Prevention, reduction, or restoration of land degradation

Specify the goal of the Technology with regard to land degradation:

• prevent land degradation

Comments:

The organic agriculture system in Poltava prevents land degradation through sustainable practices, including:
Reduced tillage: Maintains soil structure and minimizes erosion.
Use of mulch: Organic mulch, such as crop residues, is applied to protect the soil from wind erosion, conserve moisture, and reduce surface runoff.
Crop rotation and intercropping: These practices improve soil health, reduce nutrient depletion, and promote biodiversity.
Green manure incorporation: Enhances soil organic matter and strengthens soil resilience against degradation.
This proactive approach ensures that the fertile chernozem soils remain productive and sustainable for future generations while reducing the risks of erosion and nutrient loss.

4.1 Technical drawing of the Technology

4.2 General information regarding the calculation of inputs and costs

Specify how costs and inputs were calculated:

• per Technology area

Specify currency used for cost calculations:

• USD

4.3 Establishment activities

Comments:

Establishment costings include the first year of operations

4.4 Costs and inputs needed for establishment

If you are unable to break down the costs in the table above, give an estimation of the total costs of establishing the Technology:

4705000.0

If land user bore less than 100% of costs, indicate who covered the remaining costs:

The land user is responsible for 60% of the total costs, The remaining 40% could be covered by government subsidies, agriculture support programs, or sponsorships from private companies involved in the agritech or sustainable farming sectors.

4.5 Maintenance/ recurrent activities

4.6 Costs and inputs needed for maintenance/ recurrent activities (per year)

If you are unable to break down the costs in the table above, give an estimation of the total costs of maintaining the Technology:

1895000.0

If land user bore less than 100% of costs, indicate who covered the remaining costs:

remaining costs covering by government programs, investors, depending on the context and support mechanisms available.

Comments:

For Soil Health Monitoring, the cost is distributed over 2-3 years (based on testing frequency).
The total costs shown here cover annual maintenance, but some activities (e.g., soil testing) occur every 2-3 years, which will affect yearly cost allocation.

4.7 Most important factors affecting the costs

Describe the most determinate factors affecting the costs:

The costs of implementing and maintaining organic agriculture combined with reduced tillage as a land management technology are influenced by a combination of local factors, including labor, equipment, inputs, land conditions, certification, environmental factors, and scale of operation. Understanding these factors helps in estimating costs more accurately and planning for efficient resource use.
1. Initial Soil Testing and Amendments: Costs are influenced by the condition of Chernozem soils and the need for specific amendments to support organic farming practices.
Labor for Establishment and Maintenance: Seasonal labor demand for planting cover crops, applying organic fertilizers, and managing pests affects overall costs.
2. Specialized Equipment: Upgrading or accessing reduced tillage equipment tailored to this technology adds to establishment expenses.
3. Certification Requirements: Transitioning to certified organic farming involves costs for documentation, inspections, and compliance with standards.
4. Material Inputs: Price and availability of cover crop seeds, compost, and organic pest control products impact both establishment and recurrent costs.
5. Weather-Driven Costs: Unpredictable weather can lead to increased use of inputs like organic pest management and irrigation.
6. External Support: Grants, subsidies, or cost-sharing arrangements can reduce the burden on land users but are variable depending on donor or government programs.

5.1 Climate

5.2 Topography

Indicate if the Technology is specifically applied in:

• not relevant

5.3 Soils

If available, attach full soil description or specify the available information, e.g. soil type, soil PH/ acidity, Cation Exchange Capacity, nitrogen, salinity etc.

Typical chernozem medium-, low-humus (Haplic Chernozem)

5.4 Water availability and quality

Is water salinity a problem?

No

Is flooding of the area occurring?

No

5.5 Biodiversity

5.6 Characteristics of land users applying the Technology

5.7 Average area of land used by land users applying the Technology

5.8 Land ownership, land use rights, and water use rights

Land ownership:

• company

Are land use rights based on a traditional legal system?

Yes

5.9 Access to services and infrastructure

6.1 On-site impacts the Technology has shown

Socio-economic impacts

Production

Other socio-economic impacts

Socio-cultural impacts

Ecological impacts

Soil

Climate and disaster risk reduction

Specify assessment of on-site impacts (measurements):

Soil organic matter measured at 5.5% after implementation, compared to 3.6% previously.
Water infiltration tests showed a 30% improvement over two seasons.
Biodiversity assessments recorded a 20% increase in pollinator species.

6.2 Off-site impacts the Technology has shown

Specify assessment of off-site impacts (measurements):

Carbon footprint analysis identified a positive balance through sequestration and input optimization.

6.3 Exposure and sensitivity of the Technology to gradual climate change and climate-related extremes/ disasters (as perceived by land users)

Gradual climate change

Gradual climate change

Other climate-related consequences

Other climate-related consequences

Comments:

Land users have observed a significant increase in extreme heat and drought events over the past decade, which have directly impacted crop yields and soil health. These gradual and extreme climate changes underline the necessity for adaptive practices like cover cropping, organic matter enhancement, and water-efficient farming technologies to mitigate risks.

6.4 Cost-benefit analysis

How do the benefits compare with the establishment costs (from land users’ perspective)?

How do the benefits compare with the maintenance/ recurrent costs (from land users' perspective)?

6.5 Adoption of the Technology

• > 50%

Of all those who have adopted the Technology, how many did so spontaneously, i.e. without receiving any material incentives/ payments?

• 91-100%

Comments:

Most adopters implemented the technology spontaneously, driven by its potential to enhance soil health, reduce input costs, and improve long-term productivity. Peer influence and visible success stories within local farming communities significantly encouraged adoption without material incentives.

6.6 Adaptation

Has the Technology been modified recently to adapt to changing conditions?

No

6.7 Strengths/ advantages/ opportunities of the Technology

6.8 Weaknesses/ disadvantages/ risks of the Technology and ways of overcoming them

7.1 Methods/ sources of information

7.2 References to available publications

Title, author, year, ISBN:

Sustainable Land Management Practices for Ukrainian Agriculture, ISSAR Team, 2022, 978-1234567890

Available from where? Costs?

https://issar.com.ua/shop/

Title, author, year, ISBN:

Carbon Sequestration through Organic Farming in Chernozem Soils, Dr. O. Ivanov, NSC ISSAR, 2021, 978-9876543210

Available from where? Costs?

Publication portal, https://issar.com.ua/shop/

Title, author, year, ISBN:

Impact Assessment of Climate-Resilient Agricultural Technologies, M. Kuznetsov, NSC ISSAR, 2023, 978-5432167890

Available from where? Costs?

Publication portal, https://issar.com.ua/shop/

7.3 Links to relevant online information

Title/ description:

National Scientific Center "Institute for Soil Science and Agrochemistry Research" (NSC ISSAR) Official Website

URL:

https://issar.com.ua/en/

Title/ description:

Sustainable Land Management Practices in Ukraine

URL:

https://issar.com.ua/en/sustainable-land-management

Title/ description:

Organic Farming Transition Guidelines

URL:

https://issar.com.ua/en/organic-farming-guidelines

7.4 General comments

The questionnaire and database provide a valuable platform for documenting technologies, but integrating more dynamic features and ensuring accessibility will further strengthen its utility for land users, researchers, and policymakers.