Both Limburgen see cooperation in fruit farming

Deputy member Mackus visited pcfruit, a leading research center for fruit cultivation in Sint-Truiden, at the invitation of his Belgian colleague Moors. Earlier, deputy Moors visited Brightlands Greenport Campus Venlo. Both see great potential in the agricultural activities of neighboring Limburg and opportunities for more intensive cooperation, especially within the fruit industry.

The visit took place last Thursday at pcfruit, the center for applied fruit farming research that has been active in fruit farming for 75 years. At least three quarters of Belgian fruit growers make use of pcfruit's expertise. It is located in the heart of the Haspengouw fruit region. Here, scientific research, demonstration and individual company information flow together. On 62 hectares of experimental gardens, research is carried out into quality improvement and new fruit varieties, in collaboration with industry, the fruit sector and other research institutions.

During the years pcfruit director Dany Bylemans sees opportunities in sharing knowledge about the scientifically researched health effects of fruit. Dutch Limburg can again benefit from the cultivation knowledge. There is already cooperation, but it can be improved and intensified.
"By establishing stronger connections within the agro-industry and with companies from other sectors, we can better respond to challenges within the agricultural sector and develop new opportunities," said Inge Moors, deputy commissioner. "Many challenges simply do not stop at provincial or national borders", stated deputy Hubert Mackus. "By working together more, the potential in the region can be used optimally."

Source: limburg.be