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Sustainable agriculture and innovation in the Twente region

De Farmers (formerly know as, Mineral Valley Twente)

Mineral Valley Twente is well aware of the challenges facing agricultural entrepreneurs. While the foundation initially focused on healthier soil and the smart reuse of minerals, it now aims primarily to accelerate the transition to a sustainable rural area. The goal: to offer a viable future for farmers.

De Landbouwers(The Farmers, (formerly known as Mineral Valley Twente))
Since 2014, Mineral Valley Twente has been committed to supporting the agricultural sector. “Manure was the biggest challenge for farmers back then,” says director Eric Kleissen. “Today, the challenges have changed. Now we’re dealing with broad societal issues—nitrogen, Natura 2000, biodiversity... you name it.” Over the years, Mineral Valley Twente has thus shifted its focus. “The agricultural world is evolving, and we want to support this transition in a positive way to ensure the farmer’s income model remains viable.”

Collaboration
Challenges in the agricultural sector impact many stakeholders. That’s why Mineral Valley Twente collaborates with around 50 partners. “The province, water boards, as well as the University of Twente, Landschap Overijssel, and ForFarmers. These are diverse parties, and that’s essential because we want to hear as many different perspectives as possible.” The foundation prioritises remaining a neutral and independent party. “We don’t want to take sides; rather, we aim to connect all parties and facilitate knowledge sharing.”

Acceleration Agenda
  Thanks to collaboration with its partners, Mineral Valley Twente has created a new, multi-year acceleration agenda focusing on water, soil, and the farmer’s income model. “This agenda forms the foundation for various practical pilots,” Eric explains. “We want to do more than just talk; we want to roll up our sleeves and offer concrete solutions.” Through these practical pilots, the foundation aims to support the renewal process.

New Name
With the acceleration agenda, Mineral Valley Twente is officially taking a new direction. On 28 November 2022, the foundation presented the agenda to Minister Piet Adema and Provincial Deputy Gert Harm ten Bolscher. That same afternoon, Mineral Valley Twente’s rebranding was also unveiled, receiving enthusiastic responses from attendees. “I’m glad we’re working together on this,” Ten Bolscher shared. “The farmyard isn’t the problem, but part of the solution.” Adema agreed, saying, “Challenges in agriculture are shared issues. The agenda aligns perfectly with current discussions in The Hague.”

Bringing It to Life
The plan for the next five years is now in place, along with a well-considered approach to implementation. Through practical pilots, De Land Bouwers aims to bring the agenda to life. “With these pilots, we’re working on practical solutions for several themes identified by the region itself,” Eric explains. “For example, tackling nitrate leaching, transitioning to nature-inclusive farming, and connecting with and expanding the KPIs of the Circular Agriculture project. Other suggestions are, of course, very welcome.” After the successful introduction of the agenda, the team at De Land Bouwers is eager to get started. “The foundation is laid. Now it’s time for implementation. There are many challenges in the agricultural sector, but we are confident there is a future.”

Funding
Regio Deal

Agenda voor Twente

Want to know more?
Contact project leader Eric Kleissen
M: +316 1066 0918
E: ekleissen@avecodebondt.nl

 

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