The Norwegian Living Lab (NO-LL) is situated at the Vinjane orchard in the Aurland municipality, Western Norway, managed directly by Sogn Jord- og Hagebruksskule (SJH).
The Vinjane orchard is a certified organic demonstration and research orchard, operating as a multi-strata agroforestry and perennial living lab within the KVANN / SJH partnership. It lies on an elevated hillside terrace , on the mountain slope above the Aurlandsfjord. Unlike the alluvial valley floor, the site is bordered directly by native forest edges and steep terrain. The cultivated area consists of established organic apple rows integrated into terraced, sloping terrain rather than flat arable land.
Key challenges include high humidity and persistent rainfall creating elevated fungal pathogen pressure (such as apple scab); seasonal mountain shading that shortens the daily solar window; and steep valley margins that prevent heavy mechanization, requiring labor-efficient small-scale practices. Main opportunities arise from fjord-moderated microclimates suitable for temperate tree fruit (apples, plums) and cold-hardy perennial polycultures; decades of established organic soil management, deep compost fertility, and biological diversity; and institutional capacity with on-site agronomists, practical students, and research plots.
Co-creation through multi-actor participatory activities bringing together researchers, teachers, students, producers, chefs and consumers: