In the DOK experiment, bio-dynamic, bio-organic and conventional (integrated) farming systems are compared since 1978, mimicking real farming practices in a plot design. The experiment is worldwide unique, so that soil and plant samples originating from the experimental plots serve as a reference for numerous national and international projects. Various projects are currently conducted in the field of soil quality and functions as well as plant mutual symbioses. The development of soil organic carbon over time and the bio-geochemical processes in soil are of paramount importance especially in view of climate change.
The DOK experiment is a valuable base for several EU project collaborations. The field plots are jointly managed by FiBL (Frick) and Agroscope Reckenholz (Zurich). In the recent decade, the DOK experiment has also become an example for various long-term farming systems comparison experiments (SYSCOM projects) in the tropics. The FiBL Department of International Cooperation established SYSCOM experiments in Kenya, Central India and Bolivia, in close collaboration with local partners and supported by the FiBL Department of Soil Sciences.
Current projects which make use of the DOK experiment
See also current project collaborations
Swiss Organic farmers, e.g.: R. Benz, D. Böhler, U. Büeler, Ch. Butscher, M. Hünerfauth, A. Ineichen, H. Lutke Schipolt, C. Müller, H. Oswald, R. Sax, U. Sprecher
Coordination (jointly with Agroscope)