Mapping and classification of marginal lands in ukraine for energy crop cultivation
GIS-based mapping and classification of Ukraine's marginal lands to identify optimal sites for cultivating energy crops including willow, poplar, miscanthus, and switchgrass. Combines 20+ years of international research experience with proprietary field data to produce regional zoning maps and cultivation recommendations for bioenergy development.
Overview
This solution delivers a comprehensive geographic information system (GIS) for mapping and classifying marginal lands across all regions of Ukraine, enabling the targeted cultivation of energy crops such as willow, poplar, miscanthus, and switchgrass. By identifying underutilized or degraded agricultural soils suitable for bioenergy production, the offering supports the development of renewable energy infrastructure and reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels.
The project is grounded in more than 20 years of international scientific experience in planning energy willow plantations on marginal lands, combined with proprietary experimental field research conducted in Ukraine. It includes the study, classification, and recommendation of energy crop varieties best suited to specific land and water conditions across Ukrainian regions.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Classification of marginal lands according to soil type (TLU) and water regime
- Regional distribution mapping of marginal land areas across all oblasts of Ukraine
- GIS platform for collecting, storing, analyzing, and graphically visualizing spatial data
- Recommendations for energy crop variety selection based on land classification results
- Integration of foreign scientific developments with proprietary Ukrainian cultivars, including patented willow varieties
- Compilation of experimental field data tables to support zoning decisions
Technology readiness level
The research is supported by existing experimental fields and prior practical results in Ukraine, as well as established patented willow cultivars developed by the organization. The validation plan spans 3-5 years and involves qualified researchers conducting studies across all regions of Ukraine. Future work aims to produce electronic zoning maps of marginal land plots, establish cultivation recommendations based on soil and water conditions, and complete a comprehensive regional picture of Ukraine's marginal land resources for energy crop deployment.
About Energetic Verba
Salix Energy is a Ukrainian bioenergy company established in 2010 that specializes in the cultivation of energy willow for biomass production. The company manages extensive plantations, notably in the Volyn region, and focuses on developing a sustainable internal market for energy crops by utilizing degraded or unused agricultural soil. They provide a comprehensive range of services, including the sale of willow cuttings and specialized planting materials, professional consulting for farmers, and the establishment of experimental fields to research cultivation technologies suited to the Ukrainian climate. To support these operations, the company has invested in specialized agricultural machinery, such as energy planters and harvesters, and operates as a nursery for both imported Swedish varieties and proprietary, patented Ukrainian cultivars.
Beyond biomass production, the company actively contributes to the energy sector by managing boiler plants and generating heat for public and private institutions. By implementing projects that reconstruct fossil fuel-based systems to utilize wood chips from their energy willow plantations, they offer an alternative to traditional heating methods like coal and natural gas. This integrated approach aims to replace imported fossil fuels with locally produced, renewable energy sources. Through partnerships, participation in specialized industry associations, and the provision of agricultural services, Salix Energy works to promote green energy development and support municipal and commercial partners in achieving greater energy independence and operational efficiency.
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