Keyline design – the project at Königs organic farm

Not far from the city of Bern, one of AXA Switzerland’s donation projects is slated to start this year on Königs organic farm. Under the management of oekoskop (in German) and with AXA’s support, the standard fruit tree orchard is set to be transformed into a biodiverse habitat. The main focus is the implementation of keyline design, a land management technique that optimizes water distribution. The aim of the project is to increase the biodiversity of the farm while at the same time bolstering the resilience of the ecosystem.

Keyline design – how the organic farm prepares for greater weather extremes

Adverse weather conditions such as periods of extreme heat or heavy rainfall are increasingly threatening farms. Königs organic farm in Bern is also facing such difficulties. In order to protect the land around the farm from droughts and floods, the understory of the standard fruit tree orchard will be restructured this year. Using keyline design (in German), structures will be set up on the farm which will capture, store and distribute rainwater in the most efficient way possible. This improves the water efficiency of the farm and frees it from dependence on external water sources. It also improves soil infiltration, which makes the soil healthier and more productive.

Measures for greater biodiversity

The project at Königs organic farm is intended to promote more than just the health of the soil. It will also provide habitat for various species of insects and animals on the farm. The following measures are planned:

• Create places of refuge: Various structures such as piles of stones and branches and hedgerows will be placed along the keylines. These structures create natural retreats where insects, birds and small animals can shelter and find food.
• Add a biotope: As part of the keyline design, storage ponds will be created. These ponds will provide the land with water during times of drought and create valuable habitat for dragonflies, amphibians and other animals that live in wetland areas.
• Plant standard fruit trees: This will improve conditions for a number of different animals over the long term. This includes bats and various types of birds, such as the endangered owl of Athena.

Your contribution to the project

The keyline project at Königs organic farm is one example of how agriculture could function sustainably – with a positive impact on the environment, biodiversity and the local community.

As an AXA customer, you have the option of taking part in this project or any of our other anniversary projects. Come join us in the Flora Futura Box, where you’ll be able to scan the QR code on the invitation you received. For every QR code that is scanned, AXA will donate CHF 5 to the biodiversity project in your region.