Day 9: A Journey From Small Farms to Deep Underground

After indulging in the history and culture of Krakow yesterday, we began today with a visit to the Agriculture Advisory Center (CDR), where Class 41 was treated to a series of speakers teaching us about various agencies who support farmers in the state of Malopolska, where Krakow is located. The Center's mission is to raise agricultural income for farmers, enhance the market competitiveness of agricultural holdings, support sustainable development of rural areas and to produce professional agricultural advisors, agricultural school teachers and provide training in best practices, changing regulation and production techniques. Class 41 Fellows heard from the state Director of Agriculture, Environmental Production and Planning. We also heard from the President of the Small Agriculture Chamber, and the Director of a seed research station. These speakers talked about the structure of local government, the transition from a centralized government system under communism to a decentralized government system responsible to Poland and the EU. They discussed types of farming systems in the state, challenges facing agriculture and measures they are taking to develop local agricultural production.

Some of the interesting facts we learned include: 90% of farms in this area are small farms of less than 5 hectares; There is a limit on individual land ownership of 300 hectares per family, which is the maximum allowed for subsidies under the EU; Food produced locally is also consumed locally and most farmers have other sources of income; Organic farming is the dominant farming system and this is a source of pride. However, the number of farms has shrunk by 25% over the last 8 years. This farmland has been taken out of production, but the land is not sold. It is kept as a potential investment.

Among the many speakers this morning, we heard from a dynamic young couple who own a company that recycles waste from the production of juices.  Left over pulp is taken to their factory where it is dried thoroughly.  The resulting powders are rich in pectin and nutrients.  This dried pulp is used in teas, animal feed, cooking and medicines.  They are also drying cherry pits for use in therapeutic pillows.  This couple represents innovation and entrepreneurship - a new model for Polish agriculture.  At the same time, they expressed frustrations we can all relate to.  It took a full two years  to receive the necessary permits to go into business after they secured funding and a factory.

In the evening we hiked 400 feet down into an unforgettable World Heritage Site. For nearly 700 years, the Wieliczka salt mine has driven the economy of Southern Poland. Underground, there are carvings from solid blocks of salt made by miners to commemorate their hard work, resilience and to mark important secular and religious occasions. There are cathedral sized rooms in the salt mine with carved statues and wall carvings. It was simply beautiful.

Elisabeth Silva, Stuart Mast and Ali Elhassan
Photos by Steve Knudsen