Agroforestry in Alsace vineyards

What is agroforestry? What are the objectives and benefits of such a project in Alsace's vineyards?

Find out how Bestheim is responding to environmental challenges by committing to innovative and responsible viticulture.

What is viticultural agroforestry, or vitiforestry?

Agroforestry is an innovative farming practice that combines the cultivation of plants and trees on the same plot, creating more resilient and sustainable ecosystems.

By integrating trees into vineyards, this method not only improves soil and water quality, but also promotes biodiversity and mitigates climate change.

Bestheim and its ambitious agroforestry project

In 2022, we launched an agroforestry project in our Alsace vineyards. In response to the challenges posed by water stress, we set up agroecological infrastructures in a particularly dry area of Bennwihr.

In two years, nearly 2,000 trees have been planted over 15 hectares. This project aims to analyze the impact of trees in these dry areas and to extend the initiative to other regions.

By integrating environmentally-friendly practices, Bestheim is committed to responsible viticulture and offers a concrete response to contemporary environmental challenges.

Numerous benefits for our Alsace vineyards

Bestheim's agroforestry project in Alsace pursues several crucial objectives:

• Limit water stress: trees improve infiltration and water retention in the soil, break up drying air flows thanks to hedges, and provide shade.
  
  
• Improve soil quality: tree leaves and wood decompose into humus. This enriches the soil's organic matter and improves its structure.
  
  
• Enhance biodiversity: the presence of trees encourages biological diversity, particularly that of beneficial insects.
  
  
• Carbon storage: trees help to capture and store carbon, thereby helping to limit climate change.
  
  
• Structuring the landscape: the introduction of trees creates ecological corridors and gives a unique landscape identity to the vineyards.
  
  
• Raising awareness: this project raises awareness of current and future environmental issues, while anticipating the impacts of climate change.

Bestheim wins the Verallia solidarity fund

In 2024, we won the Verallia solidarity fund to continue and expand this project. This recognition underlines the importance andeffectiveness of our agroecological initiatives!

This fund, set up in partnership with the Vignerons Engagés label, aims to encourage the resistance and sustainability of vineyards.

Bestheim's agroforestry project represents a significant step towards more sustainable and resilient viticulture.