In March 2023, Steven Reijnders and his family took the step to move from Zeewolde to Denmark. They left their dairy farm behind. “It was a business where we could farm well, but we also faced certain challenges, such as the high costs of manure disposal and the province's plans. Because of this, we had been stagnant in recent years.” They did not go alone, but together with Steven's sister, brother-in-law, and their family. But why move abroad, specifically to Denmark?
“To be honest, it had been on my mind for a long time,” says Steven. “I even gave a presentation about Canada in elementary school. I've always felt the urge to do something new and challenging. We didn’t just want to consider farming; we also thought about the future of our children. Canada was financially difficult and not possible due to our family situation. We were looking for a farm with more land than cows, which is why Denmark came into view.”
Significant transition
For Steven and his family, the transition from a dairy farm in Zeewolde to a farm in Denmark was a big leap. The first thing he noticed upon arrival in Denmark was the poor condition of the farm. “In 2017, the business went bankrupt and was taken over by an investor,” he explains. “You could see the impact on the cows, the land, and all the equipment. We knew this beforehand, but it was a large job.”
It was an emotional farewell to their old life, but Steven emphasises the importance of embracing change: “Everything gets turned upside down. You leave behind neighbours and family, and you leave loved ones behind. We consciously chose a maximum driving distance of 600 kilometers so we could easily travel back to the Netherlands.”
Benefits of farming in Denmark
Despite the challenges, Steven sees the benefits of farming in Denmark. “The clear and workable regulations, and the fact that you understand the rules, making it easier to comply, make it all worthwhile,” he explains. “And for our children, we find the school system better.”
Role of Interfarms
Interfarms played an important role in the emigration process of Steven and his family. “Interfarms approached us very personally, and we appreciated that Richard came to our home,” Steven shares. “They helped us not only with choosing the country but also with the purchase of our new farm and the sale of our farm in the Netherlands. Even after the purchase was finalised, there are still many things that needed to be arranged.”
Steven and his family are now working hard in Denmark to renovate their farm and shape their new life. He is optimistic about the future: “Being a farmer is not just a job; it’s a lifestyle. If that can’t happen in the Netherlands, you have to do it somewhere else. The motivation is back. I’ve already taken 20,000 steps and am not tired yet. Here in Denmark, I feel welcomed as a farmer, unlike in the Netherlands.”
Regarding his advice to others considering emigration, Steven says, “Buy from a farmer, not from an investor.” And he adds, “If people want more information, they are always welcome to visit.”