In the lead-up to the parliamentary debate on "Profitability and Land Policy" on 22 May, Minister Wiersma paid a working visit on Monday to the Business Unit Field Crops at Wageningen University & Research in Lelystad. Alongside Flevoland's deputy Jan Klopman, she gained an insight into the future of Dutch arable farming.
The visit began with a reception by Carolien Kroeze, Rector Magnificus of Wageningen University & Research. "It is inspiring to see how farmers and researchers innovate together. They are working on sustainable business models, climate-resilient crops and healthy soils, to name just a few," said Kroeze. Flevoland's deputy Jan Klopman also welcomed the minister, presenting her with the Flevoland Vision on Agriculture.
Farm of the Future
Under the guidance of researchers Pieter de Wolf and Lennart Fuchs, Minister Wiersma was given a tour of the Fieldlab at the Farm of the Future. There, she was briefed on key topics within arable farming, such as crop selection, sustainable land use, the design of future-proof agricultural systems, and the costs and risks of innovations. The minister expressed keen interest in the practical applicability and the impact of these choices.
The second part of the visit featured an in-depth dialogue on profitability and land policy. Agricultural economist Petra Berkhout of Wageningen Social & Economic Research provided an introduction on profitability and supply chain agreements. Jetze Kempenaar of the Dutch Future Food Production Foundation then addressed the dilemmas of land policy, with special emphasis on Flevoland. Minister Wiersma highlighted the challenges associated with the 8th Nitrate Directive Action Programme, particularly on sandy soils. Regional issues, such as land subsidence in Flevoland, were also discussed. The minister underscored the complexity of balancing various interests.
Appreciation
The visit concluded with a reflection on the role of knowledge institutions. The minister expressed her appreciation for the independent advice and the broad perspective of Wageningen University & Research. "This kind of practical research is of utmost importance," she concluded. "It is heartening to see how proud everyone is of the work being carried out here."
