Teenagers line up to become farm replacements in Vanylven

Eleven teenagers in Syvde, Vanylven, are eager to become farm replacements, with 15-year-old Sofie Fiskaa among them. Fiskaa, who is not from a farming background, enjoys working with animals in the barn and is excited about learning modern barn management, including operating robotic milking systems.

The demand for farm replacements is critical across Norway, with a Ruralis report indicating that over 40% of farmers struggle to find replacements when needed. In Vanylven and Sande, the shortage is particularly acute, with Ane Malene Søvik Nygård, the local farmer’s association leader, noting that farmers often have to work even when ill due to the lack of available replacements.

The course, held at Rasmusgarden in Syvde, teaches participants how to operate milking robots and other advanced farming equipment. Course instructor May Størset from Tine emphasizes the value of such training for future job prospects.

Fiskaa, who enjoys working with the robotic milking system, is considering a career in farming but acknowledges that it is too early to decide at her age. The course offers practical experience and the opportunity to contribute to the local farming community, with veteran farmer Åge Sørdal expressing optimism about the future of farming in the area.

Source: NRK Møre og Romsdal