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Pig farmer from Oberkirch finds harmony in nurturing livestock and meat production.

A farmer in Oberkirch maintains 130 pigs, showcasing exceptional animal care and contributing to the preservation of our cultural surroundings.

Pig farmer from Oberkirch reconciles affection for animals with meat production.
Pig farmer from Oberkirch reconciles affection for animals with meat production.

Pig farmer from Oberkirch finds harmony in nurturing livestock and meat production.

In the picturesque Black Forest foothills near Oberkirch, Judith Wohlfahrt's pig farm stands as a shining example of sustainable and culturally significant farming practices.

Judith, a dedicated farmer, keeps approximately 130 pigs, mainly crosses of the Berkshire and Tamworth breeds, chosen for their robustness and suitability to the Black Forest terrain. These pigs live under the open sky, close to their wild counterparts, the wild boars, until they are taken to the slaughterhouse located on the farm.

The pigs live a natural life, foraging for food and finding shade under the trees. Their diet consists of various fruit trees such as walnuts, apples, and pears, and they have wallows for their comfort. This lifestyle not only contributes to maintaining the cultural landscape but also results in pigs that are significantly lighter than conventionally fattened pigs of the same age, with young boars weighing around 70 to 80 kg.

Judith's farming model is not only beneficial for the environment but also economically viable. The meat from the Black Forest pigs, despite being more expensive, sells well. This success was recognised in 2023 when Judith was named "Producer of the Year" by Gault Millau and awarded as a nature park partner by the Black Forest Nature Park Central/North.

Judith is an advocate for an alternative to conventional pig farming and aims to counter the negative image of pork. She believes in allowing animals to live naturally until they die, but acknowledges the need to consider their health and well-being. Her husband, who is a butcher, performs the slaughtering on the farm, ensuring a direct and humane butchery process.

The farming practices of Judith Wohlfahrt are a testament to the possibility of sustainable and culturally sensitive farming. Her dedication to her craft and commitment to the environment make her an inspiring figure in the world of agriculture.

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