Growing from healthy soil

The film Bodemwinst shows the search of seven farmers for a vibrant future for their companies, taking the soil as their starting point. How can agriculture be profitable and produce food and contribute to a healthy ecosystem? What opportunities do the seven farmers see? With a positive outlook, they take the viewer along in their vision.

Health is the common thread in this film. The four arable farmers, two dairy farmers and a market gardener tell their own story about the measures they take for the health of the soil, the animals and the crops. But also for the health of the ecosystem, the food, the people and the financial health of the company.

The emphasis here is on the soil. From a healthy soil you reach the other forms of health. Experts in the field of soil life, taste, food quality and business management give their view of the future.

Soil as a basis
The soil forms the basis of the company. Through the soil, farmers achieve health in various areas. The Knowledge Clip What points do you pay attention to in the soil? shows how farmers pay attention to the soil. With the help of research and analyses of the soil, farmers gain insight into their soil.

Soil as the greatest capital
For dairy farmer Pieter van der Valk, the soil is his greatest asset. He continues to search for how he can extensify his business with a permanently healthy revenue model. Van der Valk uses soil analyses to look at the chemical and biological composition of the soil.

Worm research
In addition, Van der Valk conducts multi-year studies into the use of artificial fertilizers or soil improvers. For example, the worm study showed that the presence of worms is less in March through May than the rest of the year, precisely the time when meadow birds need the worms. This is most likely due to calendar fertilization. Van der Valk now ensures that compost is spread in the fall to feed the worms in the winter.

Quest
In their search, the farmers encounter problems. Problems in business management, legislation and regulations and finances are discussed in knowledge clips What problems have you encountered in your business operations?, Problems with legislation and regulations en Where are the financial bottlenecks?. It takes courage, energy and patience to do it differently. The positive results are often only seen after a long time. The regulations from the government or quality marks limit the freedom of the farmer to try new things.

_{Source:
Film soil profit: Inspiration for a healthy company and a healthy ecosystem - Groen Kennisnet}

More information:
Green Knowledge Network Webinar: Nature-inclusive agriculture in practice
Textbook Nature-inclusive Agriculture - Chapter 3. Soil
Soil Dossier - Green Knowledge Network
Professional information for arable farmers