Pyhäjärvi Institute
Pyhäjärvi Institute is a regional centre of research, development and education in the municipality of Eura, in Southwest Finland.
The main activities of the Institute are planning and implementation of development projects, carrying out scientific research, organising further education especially for regional companies and producers, and providing expertise services for food economy and aquatic systems.
Pyhäjärvi Institute’s operation is based on the aim defined in the deed of foundation at the time of registration in 1989: Pyhäjärvi Institute’s mission is to promote and develop further education, research and other development actions concerning food economy and environment sectors. Special areas of interest include food economy, circular economy, water protection and restoration.
Sustainable development as a guideline
The development work is based on the principles of sustainable development. The aim is to secure durable competitiveness of food production in the Satakunta region and to enhance the state of local aquatic habitats and to increase environmental awareness.
Maintained by a Foundation
Pyhäjärvi Institute is maintained by a foundation established by the local municipalities and companies in the Pyhäjärvi region and the University of Turku. Co-operation between the Institute’s experts and regional, national and international stakeholders creates diverse possibilities to carry out successful projects.
Objectives of food economy
Work in the food economy division is focused on securing competitiveness of the food production chain, ensuring product safety, enhancing awareness on local products and raw materials and providing special education to companies.
Objectives of water protection
Work in the aquatic division, together with local interest groups, is focused on improving the water quality and ecological status of local aquatic systems. It also prioritizes maintaining ecological research and passing on the results of the research to interest groups.
Programme Work
Pyhäjärvi Institute co-ordinates five different programmes. Our programme work ensures that the latest research-based knowledge is made available to regional stakeholders. This work is long-term in nature and relies on strong cooperation with various actors in the region.
Pyhäjärven suojeluohjelma (Pyhäjärvi Lake Protection Programme) has been engaged in conservation work since 1995, when the Pyhäjärvi Conservation Fund—comprising industry, municipalities, and organizations—was established. The conservation program covers Lake Pyhäjärvi in Säkylä and its catchment area. The program pools the expertise of various stakeholders into working groups focused on the catchment area, fisheries, local residents, and research. www.pyhajarvensuojelu.net
JOKIohjelma (River Programme) was established by the region’s municipalities and companies in 2017. Its operational area covers the Eurajoki river basin downstream of Lake Pyhäjärvi in Säkylä, including the watercourses and lakes that flow into the Eurajoki River. www.jokiohjelma.fi
Alkutuotannon kasvu- ja vastuullisuusohjelma (Growth and Responsibility Programme for Primary Production) was established in 2021 in co-operation with food industry companies from Satakunta, and municipalities. The program focuses on developing primary production in Satakunta in collaboration with stakeholders across the region’s food supply chain.
RypsiRapsi-foorumi (Rapeseed and Turnip Rapeseed Forum) was established in 2023 to to support the development and expansion of turnip rape and rapeseed cultivation in Finland with Apetit Kasviöljy Oy, Central Union of Agricultural Producers and Forest Owners MTK and The Central Union of Swedish-speaking Agricultural Producers and Forest Owners in Finland. The forum aims to address the development needs of the oilseed sector. www.rypsirapsi.fi
PETLA-ohjelma (PETLA Programme) was established in 2025 and focuses on potato research, consultation, training and publication. Supporters of the program are The Central Union of Agricultural Producers and Forest Owners MTK and several potato industrial companies. www.petla.fi/en