Meet Troy Swift, a first-generation farmer operating Swift River Pecans and the president of the Texas Pecan Growers Association. Troy shares his experiences entering the pecan farming business in 1998, the benefits of regenerative agriculture, and his passion for soil health. He discusses functions like systemic acquired resistance (SAR), the use of beneficial insects, birds, and bats, and innovative methods to enhance tree and soil health. Troy also explains his diversified farming operations, emphasizing the importance of vertical integration and sustainable practices. This Soil Sisters' chat with Troy is rich with practical insights, making it a must-listen no matter what you're farming.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Soil Sisters Podcast

00:29 Introducing Troy Swift and Swift River Pecans

01:31 Troy's Journey into Pecan Farming

03:16 The Lifespan and History of Pecan Trees

04:57 Challenges and Adaptations in Pecan Farming

06:51 Embracing Regenerative Agriculture at Swift River Pecans

15:59 Innovative Pest Management Techniques for Pecan Scab Fungus

24:38 The Role of Bats in Agriculture

26:00 Merlin Tuttle's Bat Conservation

32:04 Success with Bat Houses

33:45 Exploring Soil Health

36:24 Water: The Most Limiting Nutrient

38:42 Regenerative Agriculture Techniques

45:02 Diversifying the Pecan Business

50:41 Advice for New Pecan Farmers

55:13 The Importance of Continuous Learning

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