Approach to stimulate wine growing in Limburg

Following a motion by the Provincial Council, the Provincial Executive has investigated how viticulture and small-scale cultivation can be stimulated in the Province of Limburg.

Aelmans Advisory Group has conducted research into these sectors and sees potential for Limburg viticulture to grow into a thriving sector. The Provincial Executive will now work out an approach to stimulate viticulture and small-scale cultivation in the province.

Report

The report by Aelmans Advisory Group describes viticulture and cultivation in our province as small-scale and driven by passionate entrepreneurs. It also mentions that climate change can increase the risks of frost, hail, and plant diseases, but at the same time it can create better cultivation opportunities. With the right strategic support and stimulation, Limburg can position itself as a strong wine region in The Netherlands and Europe, both in terms of production and experience in and around the vineyards.

Action Plan

The Provincial Executive wants to make the challenges mentioned in the report regarding knowledge, capital, investments, market demand, and risks (frost, drought, diseases) manageable. For example, the Province will consult with the sector and educational institutions about setting up an educational structure for viticulture and small-scale cultivation. Moreover, collaborations within the sector will be encouraged, contributions will be made to the branding of the sector, and a funding scheme for installations that can protect vineyards from adverse weather influences will be developed.

"It's great to see that viticulture has a potential to grow further in the future in our province!" says Jasper Kuntzelaers, member of the Provincial Executive for Agriculture at the Province of Limburg. He continues: "We will now look at how we can stimulate and support this growth potential."