Who we are?
The Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge (abbreviation METK) is a government agency under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture.
About us, activities and structure
100 years of plant and crop sciences
Essential research activities include variety breeding, plant protection, plant biotechnology, gene bank, and several other areas of importance to agriculture.
The varieties of cereals, oil crops, and legumes bred in METK have been rigorously tested to grow successfully in the changing climate conditions of Estonia. The varieties have already been tested for an extended period before taking to National List of Varieties so there are no negative surprises to be expected in terms of yield, winter and disease resistance, or other characteristics.
METK's national breeding and conservation programs with a larger reach are the variety breeding program (2020-2030) and the program for the collection, preservation, and use of genetic resources of crops (2021-2027).
In total, more than 300 varieties of agricultural crops have been assigned to the Estonian Variety List in our Jõgeva breeding center since 1920. For example, the still popular potato variety 'Jõgeva yellow' has been around since 1942. The first orange-fruited tomato varieties, 'Pille' and 'Siive' were released in 2023.
There are a total of 22 varieties of cereals, pulses, and oilseeds bred in Estonia.
Rural research
Through applied research and development, METK increases Estonian agriculture's efficiency, competitiveness, and socio-economic sustainability while contributing to preserving biodiversity. We explore the current condition of Estonia's agricultural land, soil health, biodiversity, and the well-being of farmers and rural economies. Additionally, we assess sustainable farming practices and technologies and analyze how agricultural and other sectoral policies can enhance the sustainability of Estonia's agriculture.
The centre assesses the impact of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy measures, including monitoring environmental measures, analyzing the environmental effects of land use, etc.
METK is also the contact point for Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) in Estonia. From 2024, we collect price data on agricultural and food products in Estonia and manage the processing, storage, transmission, and publication of this information to the European Commission.
METK is involved in two Estonian Centers of Excellence: for Agroecology and new crops in future climates (AgroCropFuture) and for Sustainable Land Use (FutureScapes).
0%
Cooperation projects
0%
Ongoing international projects
0%
Percent of our activities constitutes of research
Field testing
METK's field testing centres carry out Value for Cultivation and Use tests (VCU) for for the Agriculture and Food Board and private clients. These tests are used for compiling a List of Varieties and to further test the varieties therein. As well as trials for the follow-up of certified seed batches and DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability) tests of cereals and peas.
The test centres share a standard accredited management system, ensuring full reliability.
Field testing centres perform scientific field experiments: fertilization, agro-technic systems, crop productivity, organic agriculture. The testing centres also take care of the management of the agricultural park: sample field trials, collection garden of field crops, herbal and spice plants, lime kiln and burning, lawn samples, irrigation systems, etc.
Laboratories
The centre’s certified laboratories are capable of carrying out most of the analyses required in the agricultural sector.
The state-of-the-art, world-class laboratory center in Saku analyses soil, fertilizers, cereals, and silage; determines the quality of crops and vegetable seeds; performs microbiological analyses of plant products, feed, compost and soil (bacteria, molds, yeasts, toxicity, etc.) and much more.
Seed Centre
Our mission is to grow quality seed. By doing so, we increase Estonian demand for domestic seed and ensure the continuity of Estonian varieties.
Jõgeva varieties are recognized in Estonia on 4,600 hectares annually, of which 5,500 tons of seed are produced.
Main partners
-
Estonian University
of Life Sciences -
University of Tartu
-
TalTech
Technology University -
Environmental Agency
Personnel
The Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge has more than 300 employees, of whom nearly 50% are active in variety breeding and research, and 30% work at laboratories. 20% of staff are in General Support Facilities. We currently have about 50 researchers.
Knowledge transfer and networking
Department of Networks fulfils the tasks of the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) by participating in knowledge transfer, advisory services, and innovation support activities in the field of agriculture and rural development.
METK coordinates AKIS (abbreviation for Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems) actions, with the Department of Networks as the main contact. The AKIS action plan aims to enhance productivity and innovation in the agricultural sector by developing a coherent AKIS system, strengthening the role of advisors, and raising public awareness.
Read moreUnit of CAP Network carries out the tasks of the National CAP Network. This includes disseminating information and organizing events on rural topics, collecting and sharing good project examples, exchanging information and collaborating with the EU CAP Network and other national CAP networks within the EU.
Unit of Innovation Support Service's primary goal is to assist and foster innovation by providing guidance and solutions to Agri-Food's industry leaders. We help local leaders navigate through vast amounts of complex data and make informed decisions.
Unit of Training and Advisory Service's main tasks are to serve as a bridge between the scientific community and entrepreneurs and also as a coordination and development body for agricultural and rural advisory activities in Estonia, operating within the wider AKIS context.
METK operates in eight locations across Estonia
The plant breeding and research centre is in Jõgeva township, which also houses the institu-tion's head office, while additional laboratories are in Saku.
Field trials are conducted in four counties: Rapla, Viljandi, Võru, and Jõgeva. METK also has offices in Tartu, Kuressaare and Jäneda.