There is little response to the temporary measure taken by the municipality of Westerveld to limit ornamental plant cultivation in the municipality. Supporters and opponents of floriculture disagree.
The municipality announced yesterday afternoon that no new floriculture is allowed for the time being. Farmers who already grow lilies and bulbs may continue to do so on the plots that are currently used for this or where many preparations have already been made.
The trade association of flower bulb growers (KAVB) calls it a drastic step with major consequences. “This issue does not only affect the bulb sector: resources used in bulb cultivation are also used in other open cultivation.”
The spokesperson emphasizes that growers work within strict legal rules and controls. “With the preparatory decision of the municipality of Westerveld, entrepreneurs are immediately limited in their business operations, while the substantive assessment still has to take place.”
The KAVB will seek legal advice and wants to enter into discussions with the municipality. “To work together on solutions that do justice to residents and growers.”
“For us, this decision is not sufficient,” says Frans Rooijers, chairman of Meten = Weten. He also calls the decision too late. “It’s good that they are taking a step, but it is too little, too late.”
Rooijers says the association wants pesticides spread through the air to be immediately banned. “We believe the discussion that is now being had is the wrong one,” he says. “As if existing floriculture does not damage nature and health.”
He adds that the existing floriculture with pesticides in the municipality of Westerveld is already too much. Rooijers: “Floriculture is fine, but without the use of pesticides.”