Strobelhof in Gutenstein: The last dairy farmer draws the line!

Strobelhof in Gutenstein: The last dairy farmer draws the line!

Gutenstein, Deutschland - Urban Strobel from Gutenstein draws a line: on Tuesday his 17 dairy cows left the Strobelhof - forever. Eleven cows found a new home in other stables, while six, which were no longer efficient due to age, had to take their way into the slaughterhouse. For Strobel, this step is a chapter for which he has prepared for a long time. But despite the difficult decision, he was proud to release all cows into a dignified future.

The agricultural office confirmed that the Strobelhof was the last dairy farm in Sigmaringen. Tobias Gumpper, head of the office, comments: "It is actually a bad time to stop, because the milk price is comparatively high." Smaller companies fight while the larger ones are expanding. Strobel was forced to take this step for various reasons, among other things due to his family health problems. Months ago the family had to close their wood -fired bakery, which further increased the pressure.

A look into the future

at 47 years of age Strobel is planning a fresh start. His old stable from the 1970s no longer meets today's requirements, the fulfillment of which is becoming increasingly complicated. In addition, his children want to go to other professional directions, which further reinforces his reasons. Instead of milkplantsch, the farm will offer arable construction and the production of vegetables and ice cream specialties, while the farm shop on the Danube Cycle Path continues to be flourishing.

The emotional aftermath of this decision cannot be denied. "Unfortunately we no longer have any calves," notes Strobel with a huge approach. The lack of calves that otherwise played on the stable front is perceived as painful loss. With the end of his dairy farming, a silent sadness is about the once lively courtyard. Only the cat remains and strips lonely through the empty corridors of the Strobelhof.