Edwin

Edwin Tijs is a third-generation farmer who blends tradition with innovation. Raised on the family pig farm, he developed a deep respect for natural processes and practical solutions. Edwin’s curiosity led him to explore regenerative agriculture, recognizing the parallels between animal microbiomes and soil biology. He adopted practices like microbial treatments and Bokashi composting, driven by a belief that healthy soils create healthier animals, crops, and communities. His pragmatic approach combines decades of circular farming, using local residual streams, with regenerative methods focused on soil restoration.

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Established in 1965 as a pig farm, Tijs Agri has evolved into a circular farming system that integrates livestock with arable land. A key feature of the farm is its long-standing use of residual flows from local food industries, such as dairy by-products, potato peels, and bakery waste, as animal feed. This significantly reduces waste and external inputs. Alongside pig farming, the land is used for growing corn, cereals, and cover crops that support soil health. The farm processes grains like wheat, barley, and soy on-site for animal feed, reinforcing its closed-loop model. Over the past decade, Tijs Agri has shifted toward regenerative farming, focusing on soil restoration, resilience, and carbon sequestration. This transition aligns with the farm’s philosophy of working with natural systems, creating benefits for the environment, animal welfare, and long-term productivity.

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The regenerative approach centers on enhancing soil biology and ecosystem resilience. Ploughing was eliminated over a decade ago to protect soil structure, with mechanical tools like the rotary hoe used to aerate soil and manage weeds without disturbing microbial life. Bokashi compost, made from straw manure, enriches the soil with fermented organic matter, beneficial microbes, and minerals. Every crop is paired with undersowing or green manure to maintain continuous ground cover and improve organic matter. The farm regularly applies compost teas enhanced with trace minerals to stimulate microbial activity around plant roots. Soil compaction is addressed with methods like Flächenrotte and mechanical soil opening, improving water infiltration and aeration. Synthetic fertilizers are used only for specific soil corrections, while chemical inputs are minimized. This biological system improves drought tolerance, plant resilience, and carbon storage, supporting both farm productivity and climate goals.