De Lange Hoeve in Genderen is a trading farm founded in 1968 and located in an open agricultural landscape. The farm mainly has grassland but also cultivates agricultural products. With our 300 dairy cows and 150 calves, our farming is extensive. We therefore use a lot of pasture grazing. The milk goes directly to our cheese factory.
Future plans certainly exist; currently, we are focusing on reducing nitrogen emissions and making the company more circular. Concepts are already on the table. We will continue to work hard in the coming years; we take our environment into account and prioritize animal health and welfare in our business operations.
Een stukje historie
Chapter 1: Interchangeable Land Development and New Construction
In this special photo we see The Long Farm in its purest form, shortly after the first stone was laid. In 1968 The landscape of the Land of Heusden and Altena changed dramatically through the exchange of plots of land. It was in this year that our farm on Kleibergsestraat 2 in Genderen was built.
Innovation in the Stall: The First Automatic Feed Band
Sitting still was never part of the plan at De Lange Hoeve. At the same time as the new construction began 1968 we chose a technique that was considered ‘unique’ at the time: the installation of a automatic feeding belt.
While the feeding of cows was still a laborious task in almost every part of the Netherlands, De Lange Hoeve took the step towards automation. This robust machine was the heart of the barn and ensured that the rough feed reached the cows efficiently.
Cheese making
In the early years, every cheese at De Lange Hoeve was still made entirely by hand, turned and inspected. It was hard work, but the proud smile and the unique taste of the cheese made everything worthwhile. This laid the foundation for the craftsmanship that we still cherish today.
A look into the future
In 1980, the foundation for the current company was already firmly in place. On this aerial photograph, we see the results of the modernization that had been implemented in the previous years. With the construction of the new stables and the sleek landscaping of the grounds, our company was ready for the challenges of the new era. A year of growth, in which the foundation was laid for the scale and quality that we still pursue today.
Innovation in concrete
Four years later, in 1984, A significant step was taken towards modernization and sustainable business practices. The old method of manure storage, with wooden poles and earth walls, gave way to the first large-scale Concrete waste silo.
In the archive photo we see the concrete mixers and cranes that realized this impressive building. It was an investment that symbolized the professionalization of De Lange Hoeve: we chose robustness, hygiene and the most modern techniques of the time. A foundation that literally and figuratively paved the way for the generations that followed.
Building a Home and a Future
1984 marked a particularly important chapter in our history with the construction of the residential building on the Kleibergsestraat 2a. On the new aerial photo, the construction site is clearly visible, a sign of the physical anchoring of our family in this place.
It was a year of unprecedented activity. While the foundations of the house were being laid, the company ran at full speed. Several generations worked side by side to run the many departments of De Lange Hoeve with care. From caring for the livestock to maintaining the farm and the fields; the passion for farm life united young and old alike. This photo not only captures the construction of a house, but also the tireless dedication and unity of a family business in growth.
Always adding another string to the bow
In the photo we see the steel beams being installed one by one for the expansion of the stable. It was a project of long-term commitment and collaboration. The neighbor who built the walls, friends or acquaintances who had a spare hour or two and got their hands dirty; everyone helped out.
This photo is for us proof that De Lange Hoeve is not just made of stone and steel, but is built on friendship and mutual help. A milestone where every meter of masonry tells a story of coming together to shoulder the burden.
The familiar face of De Lange Hoeve
In 1986, the farm stood there majestically. While the previous years we were busy building the manure silo and expanding the stables, this photo shows the tranquility and unity of the completed estate.
The characteristic white nameplate at the entrance was intended to welcome visitors and suppliers. The Long Farm.
The Goldfish: Natural Cleaners in the Cage
Amid the emergence of new techniques, there was always room at De Lange Hoeve for the sober logic of the past. One of the most characteristic details from that time was the presence of Goldfish in the water tanks.
Although it might seem strange to an outsider, these fish had an important task. They served as the natural cleaning crew of the barn. By eating mosquito larvae and algae, the goldfish kept the drinking water for the livestock clear and clean. It is a beautiful example of how we worked in the 90s: with respect for nature and using smart, simple solutions that had proven their value for generations.
Innovation through Transformation: Space for Horse Comfort
In 1990, De Lange Hoeve underwent one of its most significant renovations. The goal was clear: a healthier working environment and greater well-being for our livestock. The old, low roofs of the stables were completely replaced by a single, high, open roof structure. This change brought about a massive improvement in ventilation and light penetration.
At the same time, we are taking a major technical step by completely renovating the stables. underframe. Where we previously worked with manure chutes, we now chose a fluid-tight system under the grates. A particularly interesting detail: we carried out much of this heavy work ourselves. This photo captures the moment when the old barn structure was literally torn down to make way for the modern standard of cow comfort that we still cherish today.
Festivity on the Estate: The Open Day
In 1995, we welcomed a large number of visitors to our grounds during an unforgettable open day. It was a day on which we proudly showed off what we worked on with passion every day.
One of the highlights was the striking yellow cheese promotion wagon, which perfectly matched the festive atmosphere on the farm. To add extra sparkle to the day, we pulled out the traditional attire—a nod to our roots and the rich culture of farm life. With flags in the hedge and cheese on the shelf, it was a day that beautifully symbolized the strong bond between our farm and the community. A milestone of conviviality and connection.
The Genderense Mix: An Authentic Local Product with Character
The year 2000 was a memorable year for De Lange Hoeve: our now famous Genderense Mix It saw the light of day. What began as a small-scale and local initiative born out of a passion for the profession has grown over the years into a beloved local product with a loyal following far beyond the borders of the village of Genderen.
The blend symbolizes everything we stand for: authenticity, quality, and a strong connection to our own land. It was the first step in sharing our craftsmanship directly with consumers. Today, the Genderense Blend is no longer absent from our assortment and remains a tribute to the taste of our region.
Craftsmanship in the spotlight
In 2004, the unquestionable quality of our artisanal regional products was widely recognized, leading to wonderful publications in the press. It was the year when our custom-made packages definitively became a household name.
Whether it’s a Christmas gift pack, a corporate gift or a personal thank-you note: with the Genderense Mix and other local delicacies, we put together gifts with great passion that tell a story. This photo from the newspaper symbolizes the pride in our work and the close bond with our customers. To this day, De Lange Hoeve guarantees that personal, artisanal gestures that the region loves so much are still being offered.
An authentic look at the Lange Hoeve
This special aerial photo from 2007 captures the Long Farm in all its glory, shortly after the renovation of the N283. Located on Kleibergsestraat in Genderen, this image showcases the essence of our farming business: a harmonious balance between tradition and modern entrepreneurship.
The photos clearly show the distinctive elements of our business operations. You can see the striking green tank, In which the pasture — the valuable by-product of our artisanal cheese-making — is carefully preserved. Also the central manure storage and the open stables show how we have been working for years according to the principles of a healthy, local cycle.
Although the farm has become greener over the years and the techniques have been updated, the core of the farm remains exactly the same as in 2007: with love for the animals and passion for the profession, we produce the finest products from Brabant clay.
Year of Innovation
Since 2008 De Lange Hoeve has an innovative Green Label stolen, where optimal animal welfare and sustainability are at the heart of everything. Thanks to modern techniques such as a mestrobot, Climate control via a weather station and soft mattresses provide our cows with maximum space and comfort.
A look inside the 28-stand Carrousel
Curious to see what's going on at our dairy farm? Take a look at our 28-stand carrousel. Here, everything revolves around peace and order. The process is meticulous: we clean the nipples carefully and check the milk, after which the milking station is attached.
As soon as the milk yield decreases, the milking is automatically stopped. After that, the animal walks back into the barn at its own pace. There is always fresh feed and water ready in a light, spacious environment. And as soon as the sun comes out? Of course, the ladies go out into the meadow to enjoy the sunshine!
From fresh grass to the best cheese
This photo from 2011 shows what we stand for every day: happy cows in a sun-drenched pasture. At De Lange Hoeve we believe that you can taste happy cows. By letting our ladies graze as much as possible outside in the green meadows of Genderen, they gather the best building materials for our dairy milk.
And you can feel it! Especially in our famous graskaas, which we make from the first milk as soon as the cows return to the pasture in spring. Purely, artisanally and directly from the land. For generations now, with a vision for the future and feet firmly planted in the ground.
Fun time on the grounds!
Our farmer's footrace in action: who can get the (far too big) overall fastest, wearing the boots and cowboy hat? A race against time that always guarantees red balloons and a beaming smile. Fun for young and old alike!
The Cheese Mark: The Passport of Gouda
In the world of Dutch cheese, this small, transparent image of casein (milk protein) is much more than just a label; it is an official document. Identity document. This specific brand tells us exactly which cheese we have available.
Housing calves
At The Long Farm in Genderen The health of our animals is our top priority; therefore, our calves receive their own cubby house for the best start. Thanks to this individual housing, we can closely monitor the growth and vitality of each calf, which contributes to the high quality of our livestock farm. County of Heusden and Altena.
Sustainability in Practice
A stable with a Green Label It goes beyond just comfort. It often also means lower ammonia emissions thanks to smart floor systems and more efficient use of energy and raw materials. It is an investment in the future of the farming business and the environment.
The base of the cheese: The quality of the milk begins here, in the tranquility and comfort of the barn. A balanced diet and a stress-free environment are immediately reflected in the creamy texture of the final Farm Cheese.
Craftsmanship in the field
Even when nature opposes it, as here in 2018, Therefore, we put on our sleeves. Despite the fact that the wind had flattened the corn, the professionals of Castle Meeuwen to ensure the safety of the harvest with their advanced machines.
Thanks to this precision work, our cows also have sufficient high-quality feed from their own fields during the winter months.
The Growth of a Tradition
In the photo we see the young hop plants searching their way up along the trellis. In the background is the modern barn, which provides the perfect balance between nature and technology. Traditional cultivation and Modern agriculture symbolizes. As soon as the hop cones are harvested in the autumn, they are immediately sent to the local brewery to be processed into beers that proudly bear the name of our region.
Always close to the source
Anyone who drives up to our farm on Kleibergsestraat immediately sees what we stand for. Our house forms the beating heart of the farm. It is the place where we gather as a family, but also the place from which we are directly connected to the stables and the cheese-making room. For us, it goes without saying: the calves and the cows always come first. That care and closeness is evident in our artisanal cheese; an honest product that arises from the dedication that begins here, literally at the kitchen table.
Winner of the Most Beautiful Christmas Package
The Long Farm from Genderen has the 1st prize Won the best Christmas gift package during our very first national participation! With this award-winning Christmas package, you choose the absolute top quality from County of Heusden and Altena, Perfect as a unique and handcrafted corporate gift.
Space for new life at the Lange Hoeve
Big news from the stables: our new calving rooms are ready! We invested in many extra square meters so that our cows feel more comfortable during calving. More space means less stress and a more natural progression of the calving process.
We are fully enjoying the successful births in this new environment. And if nature needs a little push? Then we are there 24/7 to provide the best care.
New to the stable: Roxy & Penny
A new face, a new friendship! Our beautiful mare Roxy is officially settled at the Lange Hoeve. Together with her friend Penny They form a beautiful duo that we are extremely proud of.
Two peas in a pod, one great company. Welcome home, Roxy!
More peace and space at the Lange Hoeve
Innovation with the heart in the right place. That is the idea behind our latest projects. We are currently busy building Circular stables, In which we create a sustainable environment for humans and animals.
Starting in mid-June, we will take the next step: the installation of 4 milk robots. These robots give our ladies control over their own daily routines. Peace and quiet in the stables and efficiency in business operations go hand in hand. We can't wait for this new phase!
