Grazing Grass Podcast | Rotational Grazing, Soil Health & Profitable Livestock Farming

Join us as we welcome Anthony Horvath from Michigan to share his journey of starting and managing a small-scale farm while balancing full-time off-farm work. Anthony's story begins from ground zero, where he utilized economical strategies like baling hay to expand his capabilities. Listen in as he discusses the challenges and rewards of operating a farm on less than 10 acres, including dealing with Michigan's unpredictable weather and lake effect snow. Additionally, I provide an update on my own farm's calving season and invite listeners from diverse regions to share their grazing stories.

Explore the journey of expanding a small-scale farming operation, starting with just 30 to 40 acres of hay in the first year and growing to manage around 100 acres. We discuss the logistical hurdles, weather constraints, and the consideration of grazing hay pastures versus solely relying on baling. This episode highlights the practicalities of scaling up a farming business and the adaptability required to succeed, with insights into managing small acreage, flexible grazing strategies, and addressing issues like wild cherry trees and problematic weeds.

In this conversation, Anthony also shares his approach to livestock farming, focusing on economical practices and the importance of maintaining separate finances for farm operations. We discuss essential tools, like Anthony's favorite IsoTunes 2.0 Link headset, and the benefits of learning skills such as butchering to save costs. Additionally, we touch on the psychological aspect of financial management, inspired by the "Profit First" philosophy. Tune in for valuable advice on starting and running a farm efficiently, and don't forget to check out Anthony's Facebook page, Long Ear Junction Services, for more information and updates.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Long Ear Junction Services

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join us for a conversation with Marshall Whorley of Kateri Carbon from Gatesville, Texas, as he shares his journey through ranch management and his passion for sustainable, grass-based practices. Marshall’s story begins with his grandfather’s influence and takes us through his academic and professional experiences, from Texas A&M to the TCU Ranch Management program. He provides insights into the significance of grass management and sustainable practices, contrasting the traditional methodologies he encountered with the more holistic, ecosystem-based approach he embraced at TCU. Marshall also reflects on the valuable lessons learned from attending sale barns and the importance of adapting to market changes for long-term profitability.

Explore Marshall’s journey from managing a section of a ranch to leasing land for cattle. He discusses the challenges and rewards of efficient grass and water management, particularly in the face of high costs and unpredictable rainfall. Marshall emphasizes the benefits of leasing land over purchasing, highlighting the importance of building relationships and demonstrating good management practices to landowners. The chapter also touches on the impact of urbanization and the influx of new residents on land availability, underscoring the necessity of trust and profitability in securing leases.

Discover the potential of carbon offsets and multiple income streams in ranching, as Marshall shares strategies for maintaining profitability and sustainability. Learn about the appreciation of land value since the 1980s, the benefits of custom grazing, and the importance of adapting grazing practices. Marshall also discusses the introduction of sheep and goats to diversify income and the preparations needed for managing additional livestock species. The episode further explores the transition to regenerative grazing, the role of technology in enhancing grazing lands, and the benefits of carbon contracts, providing a comprehensive guide for ranchers looking to innovate and sustain their operations.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Kateri Carbon
Marshall Whorley on Facebook

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join us for an insightful episode where we welcome Bryan from Brusett, Montana, who shares his compelling journey of taking over his family ranch at a young age after his father's passing. Bryan discusses the pivotal transition from traditional cow-calf operations to adopting regenerative ranching practices. Listen in as he explains how attending a holistic management course in 2015 was a game-changer, leading to a more balanced life and reduced workload through enhanced grazing strategies. Bryan also highlights his financial growth by participating in the Ranching for Profit course in 2019, emphasizing the critical balance between farm life and family life.

In our discussion, we explore the benefits and logistics of adding sheep to a ranching operation, transitioning from cow-calf operations to stockers, and the economic aspects of wool production. Bryan shares the types of sheep he chose, the shearing process, and the profitability of raising fine wool breeds like Targhee, Rambouillet, and Merino. We also cover the nuances of managing grass species and grazing strategies, focusing on native and tame pastures, the nutritional benefits of different grasses, and the challenges posed by grasshoppers and water management.

We further delve into the practicalities of using a grazing chart and the importance of business planning in ranch management. Bryan shares his experience with implementing a grazing chart and the benefits of weekly ranch meetings for operational coordination. He discusses the shift in his farming practices, the positive impact of selling haying equipment, and the tools that have made his work more efficient. Bryan also provides valuable advice for those starting in farming, emphasizing the importance of education, community support, and focusing on the best land first. Finally, we touch on Bryan's upcoming speaking engagement at the Ag Symposium in Billings and express our gratitude for his participation in this enriching conversation.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Phipps Livestock
EMRA Eastern Montana Regenerative Ag

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation with Daniel Firth Griffith, a pioneer in regenerative agriculture, as we explore his unconventional methods and philosophies that challenge traditional practices. Reflecting on his first appearance in Episode 17 and discussing his latest book, "Stagtine," Daniel shares his evolution beyond regenerative practices. Influenced by Fred Provenza's "Nourishment," Daniel advocates for minimal pressure grazing, allowing cattle to naturally find necessary minerals, and posing questions rather than offering a step-by-step guide. I also share some personal updates, including the acquisition of a Border Collie puppy and experimenting with laser engraving ear tags for the farm.

Listen in as we discuss the philosophy of rewilding and rethinking our relationship with nature, especially in the context of modern agriculture and regenerative farming. We introduce the concept of "Kincentric Rewilding," which emphasizes kinship with all life forms and the cyclical nature of life and death. The conversation moves from traditional rotational grazing methods to a more harmonious and less controlled interaction with livestock, questioning how animals might guide us if given more autonomy. This shift aims to foster a management approach rooted in humility and partnership with nature.

Discover the natural wisdom of herbivores and their ability to adapt phenotypically to their environment without human intervention. Daniel highlights the importance of allowing animals to self-medicate by selecting the plants they need, a practice often overlooked in conventional farming. We touch on broader concepts of biodiversity and question traditional notions of control in farming, suggesting that true natural farming requires a release of control. This episode also revisits foundational questions posed to all guests, focusing on favorite grazing-related books, farm tools, and philosophical reflections on land stewardship, offering listeners valuable insights and a fresh perspective on sustainable agriculture.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Daniel Firth Griffith
Timshel Wildland

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join us for an enlightening journey as we sit down with Stewart Staudinger, who shares his remarkable transition from an aeronautical engineer and Royal Air Force pilot to a full-time bison rancher in central Alberta. Stewart recounts his early years on a purebred Simmental cattle ranch and his eventual return to the family ranch, inspired by his father's shift from cattle to bison. Listen in as Stewart provides a vivid picture of the unique management aspects of bison, their wild nature, and the fascinating dynamics of herd behavior.

We also explore the intricacies of bison genetics and breeding strategies, highlighting the differences between plains and wood bison subspecies and the advancements in genomic testing. Stewart discusses the practical aspects of handling and weaning calves, sharing the learning curve new ranchers face. Our conversation emphasizes the importance of these genetic discoveries for herd registry management and classification, providing invaluable insights for those interested in bison ranching.

In the latter part of our discussion, we shift focus to the operational aspects of running a diverse meat business and the challenges of grazing management. Stewart shares his experiences with marketing strategies, feeding regimens, and the significant infrastructure improvements he's implemented to support sustainable grazing practices. From innovative fencing techniques using sucker rod to enhancing soil health through regenerative agriculture, Stewart's journey offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in sustainable and profitable ranching. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted world of regenerative bison ranching.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
MFL Bison Ranch

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join me as I explore the engaging book "Ranching Like a 12-Year-Old" by Tom Kravitz, which offers a refreshing approach to ranching that's simple, easy, and fun. I share my thoughts on its concise 183 pages packed with valuable insights and practical advice, perfect for both novice and experienced ranchers. Plus, hear about an exciting giveaway—Tom has generously provided two copies of his book for our top contributors in the Grazing Grass community. I also encourage you to support Tom by purchasing the book directly from his website. Also, I highlight the upcoming Regenerative Legacy Summit, featuring renowned speakers and invaluable learning opportunities.

In another segment, I delve into improving grazing management practices with a focus on adaptive multi-paddock grazing, particularly beneficial for those balancing off-farm work. We discuss the importance of frequent animal movement in ultra-high-density grazing systems and how to adjust schedules to prevent overgrazing and promote pasture health. Learn about the critical balance of graze and rest periods, optimal graze times, and the benefits of using a grazing chart.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Regenerative Legacy Summit
Simply Ranching

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Is it possible to revolutionize your ranching practices with minimal labor and maximum efficiency? Join us as we explore the journey of a dedicated grass management enthusiast who expanded a custom grazing operation to 3,000 head with processes so simple, even a 12-year-old could manage them. We'll share stories of overcoming water shortages, the importance of community support within the Grazing Grass Facebook group, and how a newly developed grazing chart in Google Sheets can be a game-changer for managing graze and rest periods effectively.

In this episode, we dive into the holistic approach to grazing management that brings together various livestock species into one harmonious mob. By combining cattle, ewes, lambs, hogs, and horses, labor is significantly reduced, and soil health is enhanced. We'll discuss strategies like installing pipelines to eliminate water hauling and creating permanent paddocks for easier livestock movement. Discover the critical concept of grazing in the "sweet spot" and why overly long rest periods can be detrimental to grass productivity.

We also explore specific grazing techniques, adjusting for environmental conditions, and the role of educational resources in enhancing grazing practices. Tom Krawiec shares his insights on effective strip grazing, winter grazing, and stockpile management in harsh climates. Learn how to balance forage quality and volume, the benefits of bale grazing, and practical adjustments for extreme weather. Tune in for an episode filled with valuable insights and practical advice that can transform your grazing management practices, reduce labor, and improve soil health.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Simply Ranching

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join us as we welcome Jessica Newman, a first-generation farmer from Northeast Pennsylvania, who shares her inspiring journey of establishing a successful sheep farming operation while balancing a full-time nursing career. From purchasing her farm in 2014 to building her agricultural enterprise from scratch, Jessica provides valuable insights into the unique challenges and innovative approaches she employs in managing her Texel sheep flock. We also explore her experiences with Dexter cattle and the delicate balance of managing off-farm jobs with farm responsibilities.

Listen in as Jessica recounts journey to raising sheep on her newly acquired land. We discuss the initial hurdles of setting up infrastructure, the gradual development of her farm, and the implementation of rotational grazing practices inspired by Joel Saladin. Learn about the complexities of managing pastures overrun with goldenrod and milkweed, heavy clay soil, and steep grades, and discover the successes and lessons learned in creating a sustainable grazing system.

This episode also covers essential advice for beginners in farming, emphasizing the importance of understanding land capacity and avoiding overgrazing. We touch on various business models, such as custom grazing and leased land, and highlight the influence of business strategies from authors like Mike Michalowicz and Greg Judy. Additionally, Jessica shares her experiences with sheep artificial insemination, breeding strategies for optimal production, and the importance of balancing personal life and farm responsibilities. Tune in for a wealth of practical advice and inspiring stories from Jessica’s farming journey.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
SouthView Station

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join us on an enriching journey with Ben Glasson of Glasson Farms and Good Place Abattoir as we explore the multifaceted world of regenerative livestock production and grazing on Vancouver Island. Ben shares his unique experiences and insights, from the logistical challenges of farming on an island to his innovative grazing practices. Listen in as we discuss the significance of scale and infrastructure, particularly for those working on leased properties, and uncover the interconnectedness of grazing management, ecological health, and community sustainability.

We also delve into the role of educational resources in the regenerative agriculture journey. Ben discusses the profound influence of Wendell Berry's "The Unsettling of America" and the convenience of learning through audiobooks while managing farm tasks. Our conversation covers practical aspects such as starting small with backyard quail tractors, expanding to larger livestock, and using spreadsheets to ensure viability. Additionally, we explore the intense daily life of a farmer deeply passionate about regenerative agriculture, from managing multiple livestock to participating in farmers markets and even hosting a local radio show.

Further, we uncover innovative techniques for managing chicken and turkey tractors on a suburban farm, the concept of forest pork, and the benefits of raising pigs in forested areas. Ben shares his approach to small-scale vertical integration and processing, including a herd share program and building a poultry processing facility. We conclude with valuable advice for aspiring farmers, emphasizing the importance of scalable approaches and community relationships. This episode is packed with insights and practical tips for anyone interested in sustainable farming and livestock management.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Glassen Farms
The Good Place Abattoir

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Join us for an engaging conversation with Jeremiah Markway of Markway Ranch as he shares his journey in regenerative agriculture and grazing management. We explore his experiences with various livestock, including Corriente cows and hair sheep, and his transition from conventional farming to sustainable, low-input practices. Jeremiah discusses the importance of simplicity and profitability in operations, the challenges of integrating different animal species, and the value of rotational grazing, a practice introduced to him by his father. His background in agronomy and passion for forage production are also highlighted, showcasing how a diversified approach contributes to a resilient and productive ranching operation.

In another segment, we explore the implementation of electric fences on cattle farms, including the initial challenges and how trial and error, along with expert guidance, led to success. Jeremiah shares his experience of balancing outside jobs while continuously improving grazing and ranching methods, emphasizing adaptability and lifelong learning. We also delve into the selection and management of Corriente cows, their suitability for team roping, and their exceptional fertility and longevity, providing valuable insights into incorporating Corriente genetics into a cattle operation.

Further, we discuss strategic timing of calving for Corriente heifers, the challenges of wintering cattle, and the benefits of incorporating sheep into the grazing system. Jeremiah explains the advantages of using a leader-follower grazing system, maximizing pasture utilization and meeting the nutritional needs of both species. We also cover the flexibility of custom grazing operations, the use of poly braid fencing, and the integration of different livestock to manage pasture quality. Jeremiah offers valuable advice for newcomers to farming, emphasizing simplicity, observance, and continuous learning, all while sharing personal anecdotes and favorite resources.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Markway Ranch

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey