Lars Erik Vimtrupgaard

Third generation at Vimtrupgaard

Lars Erik is one of three siblings, and he has always dreamed of carrying on the proud traditions of the family farm. Today, he is the third generation to live at Vimtrupgaard with his wife Dorthe and daughters Ida and Ditte. The farm, located near Vejen, was bought by Lars Erik's grandfather back in 1936. His father took over in 1960, and in 1996 it was Lars Erik's turn. He thinks it's great that his daughter Ida will soon be starting at the Agricultural University. "Then we'll see if the farm stays in the family".

A sense of pride

When Lars Erik was given the opportunity to improve the animal welfare of his chickens, he was very positive about the idea. And animal welfare has improved in several areas. The breed is also different than before. His current chickens grow slower and live longer. And last but not least, the safe conditions in the barn mean that the chickens are not treated with antibiotics. These are all measures that Lars Erik is very proud to have implemented - especially because he can see how well the chickens are doing.

Own ecosystem

Vimtrupgaard is Danish country idyll by the book. A three-storey farm with whitewashed walls, surrounded by forest and fields. The fields cover approximately 240 hectares. Here, Lars Erik grows field corn that can be used as feed for the chickens. He produces about a third of his chicken feed himself and uses natural fertilizer from the production for his fields. In this way, he has created his very own little ecosystem.

A family project

Lars Erik's two brothers both live less than 10 km from the farm and are happy to lend a hand when needed. Lars Erik also employs a regular helper, and in true family farm fashion, it's currently his nephew Daniel. He originally started out as a gardener, but felt attracted to the life of a farmer. Therefore, in addition to working on the farm, he is also studying at the Agricultural College.