The Lankes-Jacobs farm, a longstanding family-operated business in Brüggen, has recently joined the Agrobusiness Niederrhein network, highlighting its dedication to integrating traditional farming practices with modern advancements. Known for their extensive leek production, the farm serves a significant portion of North Rhine-Westphalia, with their produce reaching urban centers well beyond the local region.
Founded by the great-grandparents of Anja Jacobs, the farm originally focused on cattle breeding and crop cultivation. In the late 1980s, the operation transitioned to vegetable farming, now specializing in leeks, rhubarb, cabbage, potatoes, and barley. The farm’s unique approach allows them to harvest fresh leeks almost year-round, with the first seedlings planted in late February and the last harvest in early May. During winter, mature leeks are left in the field, reducing the need for storage and ensuring a continuous supply of fresh produce.
The Lankes-Jacobs farm is notable for its resource-efficient washing process. The initial washing stages use recycled water to minimize waste, with only the final rinse requiring fresh water. This system not only conserves resources but also enhances the quality of the washed produce. Roman Jacobs, a key figure in the farm’s operations, has even developed a single-person harvester to improve efficiency, reducing the labor needed from three or four people to just one.
The integration of the farm into the Agrobusiness Niederrhein network is expected to foster greater knowledge exchange and innovation. The network’s initiatives, such as the “Agropole Innovates” project, aim to expand connections to neighboring regions, including the Netherlands, providing new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Lankes-Jacobs in Agrobusiness Niederrhein underscores a commitment to blending traditional agricultural methods with cutting-edge technology and sustainability practices. This collaboration promises to enhance regional agricultural practices and foster innovation in the sector.
