Potato harvest in Soest: Stop only with the permission of the farmers!

Potato harvest in Soest: Stop only with the permission of the farmers!

In the Soester Börde, the potato harvest has started, which traditionally also brings the practical due to the so -called "stubble". In this activity, people collect the remaining potatoes from the fields after harvesting. The practice has historical roots, because during the war many people helped the farmers and were allowed to collect the remaining tubers as a thank you. But today this project keeps raising questions: is the collecting of the potatoes without the approval of the farmer at all?

The farmers who grow the potatoes in the Soester Börde express their concerns. Burkhard Schröer, Managing Director of the Agricultural District Association Soest, warns to consult the farmers. He emphasizes that the fields are private property and the stubble should therefore always be agreed. "It is simply a matter of informing the farmers beforehand," said Schröer.

stubble on potato fields-the responsibility of the collectors

Wilhelm-Hartwig Schenkel, an experienced farmer, has already seen numerous collectors in his fields. In his opinion, the self -empowerment is not very respectful: "Many have lost the decency. This is our property, on which we produce food for the population. At least you should ask before you collect." He emphasizes that the farmer's permission is essential, and advises collectors to ask at the nearby farm in case of doubt to avoid misunderstandings.

The problem is explosive, since the potatoes often remain on the field after harvesting to dry and are therefore an easy goal for unauthorized persons. Schenkel reports that the collectors often become active immediately when the machines have left the field. This leads to a source of tension between farmers and collectors and can also dangerous, since many collectors take little consideration of the work processes on the field.

The legal framework of the stubble

It is important to note that the self -powerful collecting of potatoes is classified as theft without the permission of the owner. This happens even when it comes to low objects. In the future, Schenkel plans to set up signs that indicate the ban on entering its fields. "My appeal is clear: Collecting is only allowed after prior consultation," says the farmer.