Project description

Tijs Agri is a family-run farm rooted in the Netherlands since 1965. Originally established as a pig farm by Edwin Tijs' parents, the farm evolved into a diversified agricultural operation committed to circular and regenerative principles. From 1972 to 1998, Tijs Agri also operated a Limousin suckler cow herd, utilizing pastureland alongside its pig farming activities. When the cattle branch closed, the land shifted towards growing maize, cereals, and other feed crops for the livestock.

Central to Tijs Agri is a strong commitment to resource circularity. For decades, the farm has integrated residual streams from the food industry into its pig feed—transforming waste into valuable nutrition. Partnerships with local companies, including the Ola Ice Cream Factory (Ben & Jerry’s), Bolletje (a Dutch bakery), and egg processors, allow the farm to recycle by-products such as whey, potato steam peels, wheat starch, and bakery remnants. This closed-loop system reduces waste while contributing to local food resilience.

Over the past decade, Tijs Agri has deepened its focus on regenerative farming—applying lessons from animal microbiome management to the soil. Edwin’s philosophy centers on enhancing soil biology the same way he fosters healthy gut flora in animals: minimizing chemical inputs and supporting microbial diversity.

This shift includes reducing ploughing, minimizing synthetic fertilizers, using microbial inoculants, and producing on-farm Bokashi compost. The goal is to improve soil health, plant resilience, and overall ecosystem vitality. The journey into regenerative agriculture aligns naturally with carbon farming—sequestering carbon in soils while improving the farm's productivity and environmental impact.

Tijs Agri represents a holistic, circular approach where animal husbandry, crop production, and soil stewardship work together to regenerate land, reduce emissions, and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

Regenerative practices:

· Circular animal feed system

· Microbial soil and animal health management

· Bokashi composting

· Reduced tillage

· Minimal synthetic inputs

· Green manures and undersowing

· Soil aeration techniques

· Compost tea applications

· Flächenrotte (surface composting)

· Knowledge-driven adaptation

Tijs Agri

Total

Available

Holding