Traditional roots, sustainable future: how the Mayerhofers are revolutionising their dairy farm
Source: DairyNews.today
How are our customers enhancing the sustainability of their dairy farms? Explore the Mayerhofers’ story here to find out.
The Mayerhofers’ story is a dynamic blend of tradition and forward-thinking innovation. Their farm isn’t just a model of climate-friendly milk production; it’s a powerful example of how traditional farming can evolve to meet the demands of the modern world.
“I think you can do a lot when it comes to sustainability as a traditional farmer,” muses Monika Mayerhofer.
And her track record certainly reinforces this belief. Monika, alongside her husband Johann, their three daughters and son-in-law, has elevated their family dairy farm, Adlmoar, in Vogtareuth, Bavaria, to new heights. Their hallmark has become a deep commitment to both innovation and environmental responsibility—an approach that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Last year, they were honoured with the prestigious 2023 Special Prize for Climate-Friendly Milk Production. Presented by the Bavarian State Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Forestry, this award recognises a dairy farm that effectively reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Adlmoar earned this accolade for its diverse strategies, which result in a remarkably low carbon footprint per kilogram of milk produced.
A farm with deep roots
Before exploring how the farm is preparing for the future, let’s first look at its roots. Located in the picturesque Bavarian countryside, the story of the Mayerhofer farm stretches back to a time long before sustainability became a buzzword. Monika grew up at Adlmoar, which she and her husband Johann—better known as Hans—have been managing together since 2001.
“Marrying me meant marrying the farm,” says Monika, laughing. Hans smiles and replies that he has not regretted this decision. Their combination of individual strengths has led to a strong and successful agricultural partnership, built on mutual trust and a clear division of tasks, an essential part of the farm’s success.
Today,the dairy farm is home to 75 cows and a similar number of young cattle. The young cattle graze freely on the farm’s five hectares of short-grass pastures, which are part of a diverse agricultural ecosystem. The entire farm spans 94 hectares, with 32 hectares dedicated to forest.
The family’s use of Fleckvieh —a breed known for its robust health, longevity, and dual-purpose qualities (milk and meat)—further supports the farm’s sustainability goals. The breed’s hardiness means the cows remain productive for longer periods, reducing the need for new animals and further minimising the farm’s environmental impact.
Sustainable practices and technological integration
The Mayerhofers’ deep connection to their land and animals profoundly influences their farming approach – an approach that seamlessly integrates a commitment to nature with technological innovation. A significant milestone in this journey was the installation of the DeLaval VMS™ V300 in their barn in November 2018. The addition of DeLaval Plus digital services followed, further enhancing their operations. They say these solutions are not only improving the farm’s efficiency but are also playing a crucial role in achieving their sustainability goals.
Hans reflects on the advantages of this technology: “You simply have a lot more data to work with. We wouldn’t have been able to implement the feed efficiency programme like this if we hadn’t had the robot data. We were also able to track the milk quantity very well. Everything on the farm simply works well together.”
The introduction of the VMS™ has also significantly improved the cows’ well-being. Monika says, “Since we installed the milking robot, our entire daily rhythm has become more balanced. The cows now decide for themselves when to go into the stable, usually when their udders twitch. Since then, the cows have been much calmer and more relaxed, and we have been able to increase animal welfare enormously.”
The farm’s design also promotes a positive environment for the cows. The cows are housed in a free stall where they have plenty of space to move around freely. The stable is equipped with cow brushes that contribute to grooming and general well-being. “Wellness for the cows is a priority on the farm,” Monika says.
Young cattle also benefit fr om the farm’s layout, with plenty of room to roam and develop social behaviour on the spacious pastures and in the outdoor areas.
Manure-based biogas plant
In 2009, the Mayerhofers installed a 50-kW biogas plant, fuelled by manure, dung, and feed residues, which has become a cornerstone of their operations. To further bolster their energy independence, they also added a 65-kW photovoltaic (PV) system with a 30-kW rotating panel that tracks the sun to maximise energy production. This combination of biogas and solar power has made their farm a model of renewable energy use, reducing reliance on external sources and significantly lowering its carbon footprint.
“We generate our own electricity and feed the surplus into the grid,” Hans explains. The waste heat from the biogas plant is used to heat various areas of the farm, including the robot room, the living quarters and the workshop, as well as a drying box for grain, wood chips, and hay.
The biogas plant also contributes to animal health. By feeding low-quality feed into the biogas plant, the Mayerhofers ensure that their cows receive only high-quality feed, which enhances the cell content of the milk. “Bad feed goes into the biogas plant; the cows only get the best—this significantly benefits their health,” he says. Unused feed or waste is also sent to the biogas plant, wh ere it generates electricity, and the remaining material becomes high-quality fertiliser – creating a natural cycle.
Closed nutrient loop
Another strategy focuses on minimising waste and closing nutrient cycles on their farm. One such method is targeted feeding, a practice designed to optimise livestock nutrition by precisely tailoring their feed to specific needs. This closed-loop system is a perfect example of how the Mayerhofers have integrated sustainability into numerous aspects of their farming operation.
“By using targeted feeding methods, we’ve made our farm more efficient and environmentally friendly. We’ve cut feed costs, increased milk yield, and reduced urea levels. Managing nitrogen well helps us maintain a balanced CO2 footprint. Overall, we aim to use our farm’s nutrients as fully as possible and minimise external purchases,” Hans says.
To cap off their sustainability efforts, they’ve also renaturalised a long-overgrown ice basin on their land! Formed by a glacier tens of thousands of years ago, the basin had become choked with vegetation. Working with an agricultural maintenance association, they revitalised this natural feature to enhance biodiversity.
Challenges and opportunities in sustainable farming
While the rewards are great, the journey to becoming a sustainable farm came with some initial challenges. The pair acknowledge that implementing new technologies and practices required both a financial investment and a willingness to embrace change. ‘We always took manageable risks and never went overboard. It was still a risk back then because not everyone was doing it,’ Hans recalls.
When deciding which investments to make, a key principle for the Mayerhofers is that sustainability must also be profitable. ‘Sustainability is important, but it must also be financially viable. We need to keep that in mind,’ Hans adds.
This means the Mayerhofers consistently balance environmental responsibility with economic viability by making strategic investments that enhance both the farm’s sustainability and profitability. This careful approach ensures that their commitment to the environment is matched by the maintenance of a successful and financially sound operation. They are excited to see their sustainable practices yielding significant benefits, including improved animal health and impressive energy cost savings.
Interesting fact: The Mayerhofers dedication to sustainability extends beyond their own farm. Hans is a founding member of the ‘Civil Courage’ initiative, which advocates for GMO-free zones in Bavaria. This initiative is crucial for preserving biodiversity in both plants and animals and aligns with the couple’s dedication to producing high-quality, GMO-free milk. Since 2016, Hans and Monika have supported high-visibility projects through their volunteer work with Unsere Bayrischen Bauern e. V. (‘Our Bavarian Farmers Association’), focusing on public outreach and initiatives that advocate for local agriculture.
Looking ahead – the future of farming
Monika and Hans will continue to enhance their farm’s sustainability by integrating both conventional and organic practices. They believe that this balanced approach will lead to a more productive and eco-friendly future for agriculture.
Monika reflects on the importance of this balance: “We have a conventional farm but also maintain extensive areas that are important to us. We believe that finding a balance between the two will shape the agriculture of the future. It’s crucial to consider the future and our obligation to leave future generations an environment worth living in. Additionally, it’s rewarding to know that we’re doing something positive for the environment and not depleting the soil. Being able to farm with a clear conscience is an important aspect of our work.”
If there is one key learning from Adlmoar it’s harmony – harmonising tradition with innovation, profitability with sustainability, and today’s needs with tomorrow’s responsibilities.
Source
“I think you can do a lot when it comes to sustainability as a traditional farmer,” muses Monika Mayerhofer.
And her track record certainly reinforces this belief. Monika, alongside her husband Johann, their three daughters and son-in-law, has elevated their family dairy farm, Adlmoar, in Vogtareuth, Bavaria, to new heights. Their hallmark has become a deep commitment to both innovation and environmental responsibility—an approach that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Last year, they were honoured with the prestigious 2023 Special Prize for Climate-Friendly Milk Production. Presented by the Bavarian State Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Forestry, this award recognises a dairy farm that effectively reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Adlmoar earned this accolade for its diverse strategies, which result in a remarkably low carbon footprint per kilogram of milk produced.
A farm with deep roots
Before exploring how the farm is preparing for the future, let’s first look at its roots. Located in the picturesque Bavarian countryside, the story of the Mayerhofer farm stretches back to a time long before sustainability became a buzzword. Monika grew up at Adlmoar, which she and her husband Johann—better known as Hans—have been managing together since 2001.
“Marrying me meant marrying the farm,” says Monika, laughing. Hans smiles and replies that he has not regretted this decision. Their combination of individual strengths has led to a strong and successful agricultural partnership, built on mutual trust and a clear division of tasks, an essential part of the farm’s success.
Today,the dairy farm is home to 75 cows and a similar number of young cattle. The young cattle graze freely on the farm’s five hectares of short-grass pastures, which are part of a diverse agricultural ecosystem. The entire farm spans 94 hectares, with 32 hectares dedicated to forest.
The family’s use of Fleckvieh —a breed known for its robust health, longevity, and dual-purpose qualities (milk and meat)—further supports the farm’s sustainability goals. The breed’s hardiness means the cows remain productive for longer periods, reducing the need for new animals and further minimising the farm’s environmental impact.
Sustainable practices and technological integration
The Mayerhofers’ deep connection to their land and animals profoundly influences their farming approach – an approach that seamlessly integrates a commitment to nature with technological innovation. A significant milestone in this journey was the installation of the DeLaval VMS™ V300 in their barn in November 2018. The addition of DeLaval Plus digital services followed, further enhancing their operations. They say these solutions are not only improving the farm’s efficiency but are also playing a crucial role in achieving their sustainability goals.
Hans reflects on the advantages of this technology: “You simply have a lot more data to work with. We wouldn’t have been able to implement the feed efficiency programme like this if we hadn’t had the robot data. We were also able to track the milk quantity very well. Everything on the farm simply works well together.”
The introduction of the VMS™ has also significantly improved the cows’ well-being. Monika says, “Since we installed the milking robot, our entire daily rhythm has become more balanced. The cows now decide for themselves when to go into the stable, usually when their udders twitch. Since then, the cows have been much calmer and more relaxed, and we have been able to increase animal welfare enormously.”
The farm’s design also promotes a positive environment for the cows. The cows are housed in a free stall where they have plenty of space to move around freely. The stable is equipped with cow brushes that contribute to grooming and general well-being. “Wellness for the cows is a priority on the farm,” Monika says.
Young cattle also benefit fr om the farm’s layout, with plenty of room to roam and develop social behaviour on the spacious pastures and in the outdoor areas.
Manure-based biogas plant
In 2009, the Mayerhofers installed a 50-kW biogas plant, fuelled by manure, dung, and feed residues, which has become a cornerstone of their operations. To further bolster their energy independence, they also added a 65-kW photovoltaic (PV) system with a 30-kW rotating panel that tracks the sun to maximise energy production. This combination of biogas and solar power has made their farm a model of renewable energy use, reducing reliance on external sources and significantly lowering its carbon footprint.
“We generate our own electricity and feed the surplus into the grid,” Hans explains. The waste heat from the biogas plant is used to heat various areas of the farm, including the robot room, the living quarters and the workshop, as well as a drying box for grain, wood chips, and hay.
The biogas plant also contributes to animal health. By feeding low-quality feed into the biogas plant, the Mayerhofers ensure that their cows receive only high-quality feed, which enhances the cell content of the milk. “Bad feed goes into the biogas plant; the cows only get the best—this significantly benefits their health,” he says. Unused feed or waste is also sent to the biogas plant, wh ere it generates electricity, and the remaining material becomes high-quality fertiliser – creating a natural cycle.
Closed nutrient loop
Another strategy focuses on minimising waste and closing nutrient cycles on their farm. One such method is targeted feeding, a practice designed to optimise livestock nutrition by precisely tailoring their feed to specific needs. This closed-loop system is a perfect example of how the Mayerhofers have integrated sustainability into numerous aspects of their farming operation.
“By using targeted feeding methods, we’ve made our farm more efficient and environmentally friendly. We’ve cut feed costs, increased milk yield, and reduced urea levels. Managing nitrogen well helps us maintain a balanced CO2 footprint. Overall, we aim to use our farm’s nutrients as fully as possible and minimise external purchases,” Hans says.
To cap off their sustainability efforts, they’ve also renaturalised a long-overgrown ice basin on their land! Formed by a glacier tens of thousands of years ago, the basin had become choked with vegetation. Working with an agricultural maintenance association, they revitalised this natural feature to enhance biodiversity.
Challenges and opportunities in sustainable farming
While the rewards are great, the journey to becoming a sustainable farm came with some initial challenges. The pair acknowledge that implementing new technologies and practices required both a financial investment and a willingness to embrace change. ‘We always took manageable risks and never went overboard. It was still a risk back then because not everyone was doing it,’ Hans recalls.
When deciding which investments to make, a key principle for the Mayerhofers is that sustainability must also be profitable. ‘Sustainability is important, but it must also be financially viable. We need to keep that in mind,’ Hans adds.
This means the Mayerhofers consistently balance environmental responsibility with economic viability by making strategic investments that enhance both the farm’s sustainability and profitability. This careful approach ensures that their commitment to the environment is matched by the maintenance of a successful and financially sound operation. They are excited to see their sustainable practices yielding significant benefits, including improved animal health and impressive energy cost savings.
Interesting fact: The Mayerhofers dedication to sustainability extends beyond their own farm. Hans is a founding member of the ‘Civil Courage’ initiative, which advocates for GMO-free zones in Bavaria. This initiative is crucial for preserving biodiversity in both plants and animals and aligns with the couple’s dedication to producing high-quality, GMO-free milk. Since 2016, Hans and Monika have supported high-visibility projects through their volunteer work with Unsere Bayrischen Bauern e. V. (‘Our Bavarian Farmers Association’), focusing on public outreach and initiatives that advocate for local agriculture.
Looking ahead – the future of farming
Monika and Hans will continue to enhance their farm’s sustainability by integrating both conventional and organic practices. They believe that this balanced approach will lead to a more productive and eco-friendly future for agriculture.
Monika reflects on the importance of this balance: “We have a conventional farm but also maintain extensive areas that are important to us. We believe that finding a balance between the two will shape the agriculture of the future. It’s crucial to consider the future and our obligation to leave future generations an environment worth living in. Additionally, it’s rewarding to know that we’re doing something positive for the environment and not depleting the soil. Being able to farm with a clear conscience is an important aspect of our work.”
If there is one key learning from Adlmoar it’s harmony – harmonising tradition with innovation, profitability with sustainability, and today’s needs with tomorrow’s responsibilities.
Source
