The University Agriculture Enterprise (UAE)
UAE in Žabčice, established in 1925, is an organizational part of Mendel University in Brno. Its primary mission is to support scientific research, practical student training, field exercises, and internships. It collaborates mainly with the Faculty of AgriSciences and the Faculty of Horticulture (both MENDELU), as well as with the University of Veterinary Sciences in Brno (vetuni.cz). The enterprise focuses on sustainable management in crop and livestock production, cultivation of permanent crops (orchards, vineyards), and the production of Academic Wine.
Crop Production
UAE manages 2,300 hectares of agricultural land, of which 1,850 hectares are arable. The main crops include winter wheat, corn, barley, alfalfa, poppy, and sugar beet. Production is tailored to meet the needs of livestock farming, particularly for feed purposes.
Livestock Production
The enterprise raises approximately 1,200 head of cattle, including 700 Holstein dairy cows and 100 beef cattle (15 breeds). Milking is carried out using modern technologies, and feed rations are optimized. Sheep farming includes 40 ewes of the Charollais and Suffolk breeds, primarily used for student training.
Orchards and Vineyards
UAE cultivates 110 hectares of vineyards in Žabčice and Lednice villages, growing 26 grape varieties, including disease-resistant Piwi varieties. The grape production is processed into high-quality wines, some of which are marketed under the Academic Wine brand. Modern cultivation methods are employed, with an emphasis on gentle harvesting techniques.
Technical Services
Mechanization centers in Přísnotice and Lednice ensure the operational readiness of machinery for crop and livestock production. The enterprise relies on its own equipment and workforce.
UAE Žabčice focuses on sustainable farming, collaboration with the university, and the application of scientific research results, contributing to the development of agriculture and education.