What does it take to represent Norwegian Red?
For Ole Paulsen, it starts with experience. As a full-time dairy farmer, experienced breeder and long-standing contributor to the Norwegian dairy sector, Ole combines practical knowledge from the farm with a broad understanding of the industry and the people behind it.
Based at Vettenødegården in Stange, Innlandet, Ole runs the family farm together with his family. His farming operation includes Norwegian Red dairy cows, beef cattle, young stock and forage and grain production. The farm is a good example of modern Norwegian agriculture, where efficient production, animal welfare, technology and good farm management go hand in hand.
For Ole, Norwegian Red is not simply a breed he works with. It is an important part of how he approaches dairy farming.
From the farm to the wider dairy sector
Ole has been closely involved in the Norwegian dairy industry for many years. Through several farmer representative roles in TINE and the wider agricultural cooperative system, he has gained experience in farmer representation, governance and the development of Norwegian agriculture.
This gives him a perspective that reaches beyond his own herd. He understands both the everyday realities of running a farm and the wider opportunities and challenges facing dairy farmers and the industry.
Breeding with purpose
At Vettenødegården, breeding is an important part of the herd management strategy. Ole has extensive practical experience with Norwegian Red genetics and works actively to combine breeding decisions with herd management to achieve strong overall herd performance.
His approach reflects one of the strengths of Norwegian Red: breeding for cows that can perform efficiently in real farming systems while supporting good animal health, fertility and longevity.
Technology is another important part of the farm. The herd uses DeLaval automated milking technology, giving Ole practical experience with how genetics, management and technology can work together in a modern dairy operation.
Sharing knowledge and representing Norwegian Red
As an ambassador, Ole brings something particularly valuable: the ability to connect Norwegian Red with the wider dairy community.
His experience in farmer organisations and agricultural cooperatives has given him a network within Norwegian agriculture, while his own farm provides a practical setting where breeding, technology and management come together.
As Norwegian Red continues to grow internationally, ambassadors such as Ole can help bring the story behind the genetics to life. They can show not only what Norwegian Red is, but also how the genetics are used and developed in the farming systems where they originate.
“Being a Norwegian Red ambassador is an opportunity to share the knowledge and experience behind the breed, and to show how Norwegian dairy farmers work with breeding, technology and animal welfare to develop efficient and sustainable herds.” Ole Paulsen
A strong Norwegian Red voice
Ole holds a bachelor's degree in agricultural engineering and business economics from Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, combining his practical farming background with formal education in agriculture and farm management.
His experience, knowledge and involvement in the Norwegian dairy sector make him a natural representative for Norwegian Red.
From the daily work at Vettenødegården to his involvement in the wider agricultural community, Ole represents the people, knowledge and farming experience behind Norwegian Red.
We are proud to welcome Ole Paulsen as our second Norwegian Red Ambassador in Norway.
