Imnovabean - Promoting the cultivation of dry beans in new areas of Catalonia: viability, sustainability and efficient use of water

The aim of this Operational Group is to promote the cultivation of dry beans in different areas of Catalonia, taking into account viability, profitability and sustainability through a multidisciplinary strategy (germplasm, crop management and water management). The project will be carried out in three areas of action: the Segarra Garrigues system, the Canal d’Urgell irrigation system and Vallès Oriental.

The duration of the project is from January 2025 to May 2026, although it contemplates studying the 2024 and 2026 campaigns.

Objectives
The specific objectives of this project are as follows:

• Search for adapted varieties: identification of dry bean varieties that are adapted to the specific agro-climatic conditions of the different areas of action.
• Mechanisation of the crop: identification of tools and development of a methodology for the complete mechanisation of the crop, including sowing, control of adventitious plants and harvesting.
• Efficient water use: development of strategies to make more efficient use of irrigation water in the crop.
• Profitability: evaluation of the economic viability and sustainability of dry bean cultivation as an alternative to maize cultivation.

Participating cooperatives
The cooperatives that are members of the Operational Group are Agraria del Vallès, Foment Agrícola les Planes (Torregrossa), Agropecuària d’Artesa de Segre, Productors de Cultivos Extensives de Girona.

Project partners
In addition to the participating cooperatives, the Federation of Agricultural Cooperatives of Catalonia is also a member, acting as coordinator of the operational group; the Institute of Agri-Food Research and Technology (IRTA) and the Miquel Agustí Foundation, acting as research and innovation centres.

Expected results

• Creation of a list of varieties suitable for cultivation in the different areas in which the cultivation of dry beans is to be promoted.
• Definition of the most suitable sowing dates in each area, thus guaranteeing optimum development of the beans and achieving competitive yields.
• Definition of an effective strategy for the control of adventitious plants and the harvesting process. Achieving this objective is a fundamental aspect for the viability and profitability of extensive dry bean cultivation.
• Adjust irrigation practices in the different areas to use water more efficiently, applying it only when necessary and providing the right amount according to the state of the plants, the environmental conditions and their physiological development.
• To assess the viability of the crop and determine whether it can be considered a real alternative to maize cultivation in the irrigated area of the Segarra Garrigues system.
• To disseminate the results obtained in the project to all interested agents in the sector.

Action of the Strategic Plan of the PAC 2023-2027 co-funded by: