Harvesting Tradition: Kooijman Family’s Generous Contribution and National Potato Harvest Day
On September 7, 2024, the Kooijman family farm in Sint-Anna Land buzzed with activity as it hosted the National Potato Harvest Day, an event organized by the Dutch Potato Organization. Marcel Kooijman, a proud potato farmer who took over the family farm from his father, was among nine local farmers participating in the event. This year’s harvest, though impacted by adverse weather conditions, still demonstrated the resilience and community spirit of the Dutch potato farming tradition.
Challenges and Community Spirit
Marcel Kooijman shared that the weather this year posed significant challenges, delaying the planting of potatoes and resulting in a smaller-than-usual harvest. Despite these difficulties, the Kooijman farm was one of the few from its province to join the National Potato Harvest Day. The event attracted visitors from beyond the local area, all eager to experience and celebrate the rich tradition of Dutch potato farming.
Potatoes: A Staple of Energy and Tradition
The theme of the event, “Power to the Pieper,” underscored the nutritional value of potatoes. Known for their carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, potatoes are a vital source of energy. A serving of cooked potatoes can provide enough energy for an adult to run for 15 minutes, and a child can sustain an activity for up to 30 minutes with a smaller portion. This event not only showcased the nutritional benefits of potatoes but also the historical importance of this crop in Dutch cuisine, which dates back to the 17th century.
Community Impact and Contributions
In addition to celebrating their harvest, the Kooijman family generously allowed visitors to harvest potatoes for free. Half of the total yield from the event was donated to the local food bank, exemplifying the farm’s commitment to supporting the community. The event highlighted the importance of agricultural traditions and the role of farmers in addressing local needs.
The National Potato Harvest Day at the Kooijman farm demonstrated the resilience of Dutch potato farmers and their dedication to community welfare. Despite a challenging year, the event celebrated the historical and nutritional significance of potatoes while making a meaningful contribution to those in need. The Kooijman family’s efforts reflect the enduring value of agricultural traditions and community spirit in overcoming adversity.
