Experimentation & Training

The days on the Unité du Pin are not so different from those on a dairy farm as we can know. The management of the dairy herd and fodder areas remains classic, with a well-defined annual routine; the primary purpose of the unit is the production of data for research. Thus, by setting up specific protocols, the agents of the unit observe and measure characteristics of the animals and the grasslands, in order to provide reliable data to the scientific teams, and references for local and national agriculture.

The main current research topics are as follows:

Through this experimental research, l’unité du Pin welcomes students and interns every year in order to raise their awareness of scientific research and to provide them with professional support, in particular through lots of field activities.

Thus, the interns can get involved in the analysis of experimental studies with the engineers, but also in the field with the team of animal technicians in order to understand the implementation of research protocols and data collection.

Throughout the year, visits and open days are organised with the aim of sharing the activities carried out within l’Unité du Pin. Groups of breeders, students and the general public are invited to come and discover the estate and gain a better understanding of the work and functioning associated with the research activities. The staff, mobilised during these days, are available both to explain the activities and to listen to societal demands.

In addition, technical events on current topics are held on the site, mainly focusing on grazing and animal welfare. These are open to all, with registration via our website, allowing the public, agricultural businesses, scientists and agricultural technicians to meet.