Mission and objectives

The Research Station for Vegetable Production's mission is to support the entire vegetable production sector in its endeavors to attain and sustain an innovative, competitive and sustainable position in the vegetable markets. Practical studies and applied research are conducted to stimulate technology transfer and sound advice to growers and industry with utmost respect for policies enacted by Flemish, Belgian, and European Authorities. Furthermore, knowledge gained will be valorised in practical applications and will be diffused to the horticulture sector. Hence, RSVP will act as a primary link between applied horticultural science and the grower community.

The objectives of The Research Station for Vegetable Production, corresponding to those mentioned in the Flemish Government's Decision Concerning the Allowance of Research Centers, are:

• To evaluate scientific findings from academic research under practical circumstances.
• To devise application possibilities for new techniques and culture methods while improving existing techniques and culture methods under practical circumstances.
• To promote new and existing crops with a focus on sustainable production.
• To improve product quality.
• To contribute to improving the economic output of vegetable producers.
• To contribute to the reconfiguration or diversification of certain business types.
• To translate and transfer the results of applied research and to develop new applications.
• To give growers advice regarding the technical and economic aspects of production.
• To contribute to the further development of emerging sectors like bio-organic agriculture.
• To provide advice and other services to all growers.
• To actively communicate - by virtue of this decision - subsidized research results to the entire Agriculture and Horticulture sector.
• To participate in advocacy efforts that promote sustainable horticulture.
• To conceive and implement a guidance strategy together with other research stations (if relevant) who joined the coordination committee of the subsector.

These objectives are related to the resolution of the Flemish Community concerning the subsidizing of the research and development centers. Due to additional funding sources, RSVP is also guided by the following objectives:

• To contribute to the positive perception of the Belgian vegetable sector to the general public. This is done by publicising research and development progress and by concentrating on sustainable production and food safety.
• To conduct applied research in conjunction with academic institutions such as universities and technical colleges whereby RSVP will function as the link between the growers and the research centers. This research will be accomplished in consultation and cooperation with the other Research Stations of each subsector.

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Structure of the organization

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