Brought to you by from Iperen
Precision cultivation as an eco-activity in the CAP
"Three years ago we started precision cultivation in onions and potatoes. We use Precision Cultivation Plus from Van Iperen. A very user-friendly platform that everyone can get started with right away." This is what Chris van den Hoek from Heinenoord says, a partner in his father and uncle's arable farm for six years.
His brother Wim joined last year. They cultivate a total of 350 hectares with potatoes, onions, beets, wheat and, since last year, various types of beans. "Protein-rich crops provide more points in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which means we are now in the highest category."
The CAP has three categories: bronze, silver and gold. The higher the category, the more subsidy arable farmers receive per hectare. Since this year, precision fertilization, precision crop protection and fertigation have been included as eco-activities in the CAP. According to Raph Potten, technical specialist in precision agriculture at Van Iperen, it is worthwhile for arable farmers to get started with precision cultivation. "The CAP encourages arable farmers to grow more sustainably. Precision fertilization and crop protection naturally fit in perfectly with this. Points are quite easy to earn with this. One-off application in the main crop already provides a value of €43 per hectare per component. Apply both fertilization and as crop protection, then you are already talking about €86."
Chris: "We think it is important to grow as sustainably as possible. For example, we plant the potatoes variably and fertilizer, compost, gypsum and animal manure are spread variably. We spray soil herbicides in the onions according to the task card. We use variable planting optimally. with the expensive seed potatoes. Precision Cultivation Plus calculates exactly how much you need, not too much or too little. In addition, it ensures a higher yield and better quality. With precision fertilization and crop protection you put everything in the right place. In the Variable spraying of onions can save up to 20% on resources, but above all it ensures better distribution, creating a more uniform product with more kilos and higher quality."
Chris: "Many arable farmers have the idea that precision agriculture is very complicated. However, with Precision Cultivation Plus, everyone can get along. If it doesn't work right away, Van Iperen will provide you with all the guidance you need." Raph: "First we map the soil variation of a plot. We translate this into a soil potential map. Based on this we create the task maps. Then it is a matter of loading it on the screen in the cabin and you can get started. Of course, you or your contractor must have the machines for it, but that is usually not a problem. If you also want to be able to spray variable and thus gain points, you must be able to vary per section." Chris: "We just bought a new field sprayer with pulsating nozzles, which also means we meet the CAP requirement."
Arable farmers who are considering getting started with precision cultivation can contact Van Iperen. Raph: "Other reports show that there are many questions about this subject. With our practical approach and years of experience, we can help arable farmers get started quickly. If you have completed the construction plan, please contact us. To take advantage of the possibilities that the CAP offers, you must register this before May 15."
