Agriculture
Since the 15th century, over 16 generations, the farm (Vollhof Ober Ochtenhausen No. 4) has been cultivated and continually modernized by our family. For us, agriculture means continuing a tradition that has proved itself over many generations.
Organic farming
This tradition also includes animal welfare. In view of our responsibility for cattle and man, we convert to organic farming for all sections related to meat farming: We have a Limousin breeding herd of cows that may graze gracefully on the pasture near the Oste. Organic sows and organic fattening pigs get physical exercise and organic certified feed, as possible from our own growings. 15 ewes of the Texel breeds also populate our farm and graze on the Oste meadow.
Mainstays und conventional agriculture
In addition to livestock farming, we grow corn, grain, forage crops and potatoes. Together with two other partners, we also run a biogas plant, which supplies heating to many families and farms in the village (almost 50 residential units). As necessary, we provide services such as tillage (e.g. plowing and cultivating), plant-health measures, and transport services for other farms.
Animal and environmental protection
We take responsibility for our animals and nature. That is why we insist on sustainable, ecologically sound, and animal-friendly agriculture: We fertilize almost exclusively with organic substances that we obtain from our own animals and the biogas plant, voluntarily participate in the implementation of the EC-Water Framework Directive, and raise our cattle and pigs in a species-appropriate manner in stables with straw and, of course, outside in the pasture.
The two sides of the coin
We run our farm with a lot of joy, creativity, a sense of responsibility, and professionalism. While studying agriculture and now as certified agricultural engineers, we have also intensively dealt with the economic side of agriculture, and we are confronted with the need to generate a livelihood for our family and income for our employees. Against the background of different viewpoints and perspectives, as well as partly quite emotional discussions with superficial knowledge about modern agriculture, we would like to contribute to a better understanding by means of factual, educational work and personal discussions. We would be pleased to open our doors to interested guests and to share our experiences with you.
Dates and facts
105 hectares of fields (cultivation: corn, grain, forage crops, potatoes)
55 hectares of grassland
10 hectares of pasture
35 hectares of forest
1 hectare of water
100 oaks on the farm