Is strip cultivation practical and economically feasible?

Strip cultivation can ensure that arable farming and nature development go hand in hand. However, the economic feasibility is often questioned. Cosun, CZAV and arable farmer Eugène van den Eijnden are therefore starting a large-scale practical study that will last 7 years.

The research is being conducted on a 12-hectare plot in West Brabant. 10 crops are grown on this, spread over strips of 6 meters wide. Scientific research shows that beneficial insects can then jump and harmful insects cannot. This minimizes the use of plant protection products. In addition, the strip widths are in line with the standard working widths of machines. 

Economically sustainable
Besides potatoes, sugar beet and chicory, rye, spring wheat and capuchins are also grown. Flower strips, hedges and beetle banks are also used. The so-called Nature Field must ensure, among other things, a rich biodiversity, high soil fertility and (economically) sustainable food production.

The research project comes from the HAS University of Applied Sciences. “For decades, arable farming has produced as much as possible for the lowest possible cost,” says professor Erwin van Woudenberg. “Combining nature and arable farming is an important next step. That is why the HAS has investigated how you can develop a nature reserve with regular crops that yield a rewarding cultivation. The theory shows that this is viable, the question is whether it is also the case economically.” 

Time is now ripe
In order to be able to investigate this, parties were sought that were willing to participate. Cosun (including subsidiaries Suiker Unie, Sensus and Aviko) will finance any additional costs and arable farmer Eugène van den Eijnden and CZAV will take care of the implementation. “The Natuurakker fits in with Cosun's sustainability ambitions,” explains René Schunselaar of Sensus. 

The fact that the time is now right to investigate other cultivation systems also has to do with the emerging precision agriculture, he says. “This allows you to realize small-scale and robust plant production systems. Cosun is happy to take the initiative in this by gaining practical experience, including the economic side.”

Jeanette Pennings

Jeannet has her roots in the flower bulb sector and she grew up on an agricultural company in the northern part of North Holland. As a generalist she reports for Boerenbusiness across all sectors. She is also exploring the possibilities of sponsored advertising.

j.pennings@boerenbusiness. Nl

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