Embark on an Agricultural Adventure to Poland
From August 21 to 25, 2023, students from the Two-Year Agricultural Vocational School of the Justus-von-Liebig-School embarked on a five-day agricultural tour to neighboring Poland, accompanied by their teacher Hubert Focke-Meermann and Jasmin Hellbusch from the Chamber of Agriculture of Lower Saxony. This agri travel & tour provided a unique opportunity for aspiring agricultural professionals to gain firsthand insights into the diverse agricultural landscape of Poland.
Immerse Yourself in Polish Farming Practices
The first stop on the international farm tours was the Polish town of Zielona Góra, where the students visited the family farm of Idzi Łukaszewski. Łukaszewski’s 200-hectare arable farm and straw-based pigsty offered a glimpse into Polish agricultural practices. His dedication to the industry extends beyond his own farm, as he actively serves as a member of the Main Board of the Polish Pig Breeders Association PZHiPTCh “POLSUS” and the Chairman of the Breeding Committee. Additionally, he holds the position of President of the Lubuskie Pig Breeders Association and is a member of the Supervisory Board of the Cooperative Bank.
Witnessing Large-Scale Agricultural Operations
On the second day, the agricultural tours worldwide continued in Wrocław, where the group explored a state-owned arable farm spanning an impressive 3,600 hectares. The farm cultivates a variety of crops, including grains, rapeseed, sugar beets, and maize, on 2,800 hectares. Additionally, it maintains a herd of 1,600 Holstein-Friesian cows that produce 12 million liters of milk annually.
Delving into Agricultural Cooperatives
In the afternoon, the agritourism experience took the group to an agricultural production cooperative that supplies over 70 producer groups with pigs, cattle, milk, sugar beets, grains, and rapeseed. During the farm visit, the students had the opportunity to meet the President of the cooperative, who manages a family farm specializing in pig, beef, and grain production.
Exploring Diverse Agricultural Enterprises
Day three of the agriculture trip brought the group to a company that cultivates winter rapeseed, winter wheat, winter triticale, summer barley, maize, and sunflowers across 1,300 hectares in the vicinity of Wrocław. The students also had the chance to tour the company’s grain storage facility.
Cultural Immersion in Wrocław
In the afternoon, the dairy farm tour gave way to a cultural exploration of Wrocław, the European Capital of Culture and one of Poland’s most captivating cities. The group immersed themselves in the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
Gaining Insights into Polish Agriculture
On the fourth day, the agricultural tours continued with a visit to an 1,800-hectare farm producing potatoes, rapeseed, winter wheat, summer barley, and maize. Midday brought the group to Złota Woda, a charming village renowned for its trout farming and brewery.
Exploring Historical Sites
After a hearty lunch, the group embarked on a tour of the Osówka complex, a subterranean military installation dating back to World War II. This unique site provided a glimpse into the region’s historical significance.
Bidding Farewell to Poland
As the fifth day drew to a close, it was time to say “Żegnaj Polsko” (“Goodbye Poland”). The agritourism experience had undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the participants, providing them with invaluable insights into Polish agriculture and its diverse practices.
Unveiling the Heart of Polish Agriculture
This agricultural tour to Poland served as a testament to the country’s thriving agricultural sector. From large-scale operations to family-run farms, the journey showcased the dedication and innovation that drive Polish agriculture. The participants returned with a deeper appreciation for the industry and a wealth of knowledge to carry forward in their future endeavors.
