At the Polderlab Vrouwe Venne, farmers, citizens and researchers work together to shape the future of Dutch agriculture. Our goal: to restore biodiversity and the peat meadow landscape. And that farmers can earn their living sustainably.
We raise water levels and study what this means for soil subsidence, water quality and greenhouse gas emissions.
We experiment with new crops and develop new revenue models for agriculture and peat.
We ensure proper integration within the landscape and monitor biodiversity above- and belowground and in water.
In May, an experimental trial began in which researchers planted rice at the Polderlab. The researchers aimed to test rice as a middle ground for for sustainable peatland management in the future. Did it raise the water level while producing food?
Is polder rice a feasible circular alternative for cows on peatland? A pilot experiment started this week. On May 22nd, researchers planted roughly 3,000 rice plants in the Polderlab near Leiden.
The Vrouw Vennepolder near Oud Ade has been transformed into the Polderlab. A great opportunity for students to experience how scientific knowledge can be applied in practice. ‘There’s no better way to learn how to do research, than by doing it.'
The polderlab covers 32 hectares and consists of several agricultural plots. In each plot, we test different crops and cropping systems. In the process, we raise the groundwater level. This prevents the soil from subsiding and nature from drying out. The aim is to investigate how to practice sustainable agriculture in peatlands.