Global Fields Groningen

Hanze University of Applied Sciences and DCTerra, a senior secondary vocational education institute for agriculture, have begun preparations for the first Global Fields in the Netherlands. These fields are located at the Experimental Farm Double Dike (Proefboerderij Dubbele Dijk) in Bierum and in the Suiker Area in the city of Groningen.

The Experimental Farm Double Dike lies near the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea. The Double Dike itself is an innovative coastal defense system, developed as a response to rising sea levels driven by climate change.

On the 2000m² plot at the experimental farm, the team implements regenerative agricultural practices such as year-round green cover (365 days/year), minimal tillage, multi-species sowing, and nurturing the soil microbiome, among others. These methods are designed to restore soil health, increase soil organic carbon, enhance biodiversity, and improve the soil’s ability to retain freshwater — all crucial strategies to combat salinization from deeper soil layers. Through this approach, they contribute to building a more resilient and equitable food system.

Field preparations are currently underway, with plans to sow the first winter season crops in autumn 2025. These will include winter wheat as well as multi-species cover crops and green manure crops, laying the foundation for a productive and sustainable growing cycle.

More information will be available soon.