What is regenerative agriculture, and why are more farmers turning to it?

In Episode 11 of the AG & Culture Podcast, Mike Usry and Joseph Boehm wrap up their 3-part series on organic vs natural & regenerative farming by breaking down the principles behind one of the fastest-growing movements in agriculture today.  

While organic focuses on what you can’t use, regenerative agriculture focuses on what you should do — rebuilding soil, restoring ecosystems, and working with nature instead of against it.

This episode takes a practical, real-world look at regenerative farming through firsthand experience on the Southland farm.

Topics Covered in This Episode

• What regenerative agriculture is (in simple terms)

• The difference between organic and regenerative farming

• Why regenerative agriculture is centered around soil health

• How rotational grazing works (pigs, cattle, and paddocks)

• Why moving animals frequently improves land and animal health

• How manure becomes food for soil biology

• The role of microbes, insects, and ecosystems in regenerative systems

• Why avoiding antibiotics can improve soil function

• How regenerative systems reduce the need for chemical inputs

• When and why soil conditioners are still used in regenerative systems

• Whether regenerative agriculture can scale to large commercial farms

• First steps to transition from organic to regenerative practices

• The mindset shift required for regenerative farming

Mike also shares a key principle:

The most important thing a farmer can put on his land… is his own shadow

Regenerative agriculture requires attention, observation, and active stewardship — not just inputs.

Key Takeaway

Regenerative agriculture isn’t just a method — it’s a mindset.

Instead of trying to control the system, it’s about building a system that sustains itself through healthy soil, biodiversity, and natural cycles.