Berlaar (24brussels) – The historic Duifhis farm, spanning 15 hectares in Berlaar, will undergo a revival for organic farming under the management of De Landgenoten. Led by Petra Tas, the project will evaluate farmer applications in October 2025, ensuring a long-term sustainable approach.
As reported by VRT News, the Duifhis farm in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, is poised to return to active cultivation after years of neglect. The property, which has suffered from disrepair, aims to become a center for organic agriculture through the cooperative De Landgenoten, which promotes sustainable farming practices in Belgium.
The cooperative acquired the farm from an anonymous benefactor with a stipulation that it must be utilized for organic farming. This initiative seeks to preserve the site’s historical integrity while granting farmers opportunities for growth. Experts emphasize that the project harmonizes historical preservation with environmentally responsible modern agricultural methods.
What plans does De Landgenoten have for Duifhis farm in Berlaar?
De Landgenoten has commenced the search for farmers to operate on the site, requesting comprehensive project plans and business proposals from interested parties. Numerous applications have already been submitted, with reviews scheduled for October 2025, potentially allowing for the selection of multiple farmers to collaborate.
If the timeline proceeds as planned, farming activities could commence by next year. Officials note that the combination of private donations and cooperative management is expected to create enduring opportunities for sustainable agriculture.
The historic Duifhis farm is preparing to house new organic farmers as De Landgenoten kicks off renovations. Plans include restoration of the main building and two barns to facilitate operations.
Moreover, the land has been seeded with an eco-friendly mixture designed to improve soil quality and enhance biodiversity, laying the groundwork for sustainable farming practices. Authorities assert that the planned renovations and land management will enable the historic farm to adapt to contemporary organic farming while safeguarding environmental standards.
“Finding agricultural land with a house attached to it is very difficult these days in Flanders,”
Says Petra Tas.
“But it’s necessary if you’re going to live close to your fields or if you’re going to work with animals.”
De Landgenoten utilizes funds from shareholders and donors to acquire agricultural lands. The cooperative itself does not engage in farming but instead leases the land to organic farmers through long-term contracts.
Experts highlight that this model promotes a blend of environmental stewardship, heritage conservation, and local employment opportunities, fostering a long-term commitment to sustainable agricultural practices in the area.
Similar projects include the Hoeve Hellebeek in East Flanders, where a historic farm was restored and repurposed as a hub for organic vegetable production, with farmers operating under long-term agreements focused on biodiversity and soil health.
In Wallonia, cooperatives have revitalized old farms for organic dairy and vegetable farming, frequently supported by private donations or public grants. These efforts are guided by the same principles: preserving heritage, protecting farmland, and promoting sustainable agricultural methods for future generations.