Grazing Grass Podcast : Sharing Stories of Regenerative Ag

Join us on an exciting journey as we welcome back Taylor Moyer, who has transitioned from a successful NASCAR career to full-time farming. Over the past 18 months, Taylor has embraced the challenges and rewards of regenerative farming, leaving the racetrack after the last race in Phoenix to pursue his passion for agriculture. Taylor shares insights into the complexities of understanding cattle carrying capacity, the unique advantages and challenges of farming in the Southeast, and the high land prices near population centers. With a focus on the ongoing learning process, Taylor offers a glimpse into balancing new ventures while navigating the practicalities and aspirations of regenerative agriculture.

In our conversation, Taylor discusses his innovative approach to strategic cattle management, exploring how doing things differently from neighboring farms has led to both growth opportunities and challenges. With a focus on spring calving herds in a region dominated by fall breeders, Taylor emphasizes the importance of strategic breeding decisions and optimizing breeding windows while balancing economic considerations. He highlights the transformation of undervalued cows into valuable assets and the role of a dedicated business team and external advisors in ensuring sustainable growth and profitability.

We also explore the benefits of the Land Trust initiative, which offers farm owners a valuable tool for facilitating outdoor recreation and connecting people to the land. Taylor shares his experiences using the Land Trust platform, which allows landowners to list their land for activities like hunting, fishing, and photography. With a flexible business model, landowners can set their own prices and benefit from an 80/20 revenue share. The platform ensures security with a robust verification process and complimentary insurance for landowners. Taylor reflects on the joy and satisfaction landowners experience by sharing their land with interested visitors, creating fulfilling connections and fostering appreciation for agricultural life.

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Land Trust
Ridgeview Land and Cattle

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Unlock the secrets to regenerative farming success with Cedric Shannon from Weathertop Farm in Virginia. Listen as Cedric recounts transforming 54 acres of potential housing development land into a thriving regenerative livestock operation. Inspired by Joel Salatin, Cedric shares how he and his wife, Sarah, started their farm journey with limited resources, beginning with chickens and hogs, and progressively integrating cattle and sheep. Through continuous learning and building a supportive community, Cedric offers insights into overcoming challenges and achieving sustainable farming success.

Explore the nuances of raising rabbits and chickens for profit as Cedric shares his experiences and insights. Discover the logistical challenges and rewarding solutions like hoop houses for rabbit hutches and the innovative use of rabbit manure to enhance poultry productivity. Cedric discusses the market dynamics and cultural preferences for rabbit meat, providing a thoughtful reflection on the balance between passion and practicality in small-scale farming. From family farming growth to the legacy of their operation, hear about the reinvestment in skills development and how their farm internship program has paved paths for aspiring regenerative farmers.

Cedric guides us through holistic grazing management and flexible farm infrastructure strategies that are vital for thriving with limited capital. Learn about the benefits of rotational grazing and how different livestock species can synergistically enrich soil nutrients, creating a sustainable farming ecosystem. Practical advice on managing farm operations—like using electric netting over permanent fencing and the importance of movable structures—highlights the resourcefulness required to succeed in agriculture. With Cedric's insights, start your farming journey with creativity and adaptability, and become part of the sustainable farming community.

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Weathertop Farm

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Grazing Grass Links

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Unlock the secrets of successful cattle farming in wet climates with Jake Yancey from the Tracking Y Ranch in Western Washington. Join us for an inspiring exploration of Jake's journey as a first-generation rancher, overcoming the challenges of heavy rainfall to expand his operations across a thousand acres. Discover how Jake's innovative direct-to-consumer strategy and dedication to grass-fed, grain-finished beef have set his ranch apart in the competitive agricultural landscape.

Gain valuable insights into the world of livestock farming from personal stories of passion and perseverance. Listen as Jake recounts his experiences growing up in a small town, influenced by Future Farmers of America and a scholarship to Washington State University, leading him to a career in agriculture. Learn about the role of practical skills like horseshoeing and the impact of high tensile electric fencing in cattle management, emphasizing the importance of building trust with landowners through open communication and property improvements.

Explore the broader landscape of sustainable farming practices that shape successful livestock operations. From prescribed conservation grazing to strategic partnerships with conservation groups, Jake shares his expertise in balancing ecological needs with effective cattle management. Hear about the regulatory challenges in Washington State and the creative solutions needed to reach metropolitan markets. Whether it's sourcing from family-owned grain mills or managing costs in non-home-based operations, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge for those passionate about agriculture and sustainable practices.

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Tracking Y Ranch

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Grazing Grass Links

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Insiders 
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Join us for an enlightening discussion with Blane Stacy, a rangeland management specialist from Northeast Oklahoma, as we explore the intricacies of regenerative grazing and rangeland management. Blane shares his fascinating journey from his early days in FFA to becoming a specialist assisting farmers and ranchers across the state with effective grazing strategies. His dual role as a professional and practitioner on his 80-acre farm provides a unique perspective on the principles of evaluating plant communities for livestock and wildlife management. Through Blane's insights, we uncover the importance of maintaining functional grazing ecosystems and the invaluable lessons learned from his personal and professional experiences in regenerative agriculture.

Listen in as we revive interest in rangeland judging contests within FFA programs, highlighting the evolution and importance of these competitions in fostering knowledge of plant species and ecological systems. We discuss the need for supporting ag teachers and attracting future rangeland specialists, emphasizing how these contests can inspire careers in plant and soil sciences. The conversation extends to the practical aspects of setting up a managed grazing system, focusing on making it family-friendly and flexible, and the challenges of managing infrastructure like electric fencing.

Finally, we examine the critical relationship between rangeland ecosystems and grazing management, especially in Northeast Oklahoma. Blane guides us through the historical role of natural processes like fire and grazing in shaping ecosystems and the balance needed to maintain ecological function. Through examples of high-intensity regenerative grazing practices, we highlight the necessity of managed grazing for ecosystem health. The episode wraps up with discussions on connecting with like-minded grazers and utilizing resources like Walt Davis's "How to Not Go Broke Ranching" to promote effective land stewardship. This episode offers a comprehensive look at how regenerative grazing can benefit both land and livestock, encouraging sustainable agricultural practices.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Oklahoma Conservation Commission

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Join us on the Grazing Grass Podcast as we explore the world of grass-based livestock production, featuring Ted Miller from Delta Dairy in Louisiana. Ted shares his fascinating journey of transitioning his dairy operation from Pennsylvania to the Mississippi Delta, offering insights into his innovative use of virtual collars for cattle management. Discover how the Halter brand of collars has transformed his grazing strategy, and hear firsthand how Ted manages his forages, including the strategic planting of cool-season annuals. This episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone interested in sustainable grazing practices, from dairy farmers to beef, sheep, and goat producers.

We also compare the differences in dairy farming practices between New Zealand and the southern United States, highlighting how climate and environmental conditions influence farming decisions. Ted recounts his personal experiences with moving his dairy operation to Louisiana, detailing the logistical challenges and the genetic acclimatization of his herd to a warmer climate. Additionally, we discuss the importance of adapting livestock to local conditions, exploring the role of genetics and epigenetics in cattle breeding and management. Learn about the innovative use of solar-powered virtual fencing and its impact on labor management and forage utilization.

Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the need for adaptability and innovation in farming, sharing strategies for forage management and the benefits of rotational grazing. Ted offers his experiences with introducing smart collars to his herd, detailing the process of training cattle to respect virtual boundaries. We also touch on the challenges of maintaining a competitive edge in the commodity milk market and the significance of mentorship and confidence in grass-fed systems. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to grass-based production, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for improving farm efficiency and productivity.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Delta Dairy
Louisiana Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative 

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Join us as we welcome Eileen Napier of Ramstead Ranch, who shares her remarkable journey from humble beginnings on a two-acre property in Washington to establishing a thriving 240-acre regenerative livestock operation. Eileen and her partners, Stan Hayes and Jean Hayes, embarked on this adventure with no agricultural background, initially raising poultry and vegetables for personal use. Today, Ramstead Ranch is renowned for its grass-finished beef and pasture-finished pigs, directly marketing their high-quality meats. Eileen reflects on the expansion of their ranch, highlighting their ventures into raising sheep for fiber arts and navigating the challenges and learning curves that came with managing a diverse livestock operation.

Listen in as we explore the intricacies of running a diversified livestock business, focusing on the strategic planning and adaptability required to scale from a small homestead to a business-oriented farm. We discuss their choice of specific livestock species, such as Romney sheep for their resilience and turkeys for environmental suitability, and the balance between personal interest and business needs. Eileen also shares valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of maintaining consistency in product quality and the importance of low-stress environments for their animals.

Discover the marketing strategies that have been instrumental in Ramstead Ranch's success, including the importance of engaging with customers through virtual farm tours and maintaining relationships beyond the seasonal farmers markets. Eileen discusses their transition to a simplified model by partnering with like-minded producers and the strategic focus required to balance marketing efforts with farm operations. Additionally, learn about the significance of creating a collaborative team environment and nurturing a regenerative mindset, underscoring the importance of curiosity and critical evaluation of farming practices to tailor them to specific local conditions.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Ramstead Ranch

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Join us as we explore the transformative journey of Angus McIntosh, a former London stockbroker turned regenerative agriculture practitioner in South Africa. Angus shares his compelling story of transitioning from the corporate world to managing a wine farm near Cape Town. Influenced by Michael Pollan's "The Omnivore's Dilemma," he embraced regenerative farming practices that challenge traditional agriculture norms. Angus offers insights into the contrast between conventional and regenerative agriculture, particularly in the United States, and discusses the unique challenges he faced while branding his products under the name "Farmer Angus." Through his experiences, we gain an understanding of the potential regenerative agriculture holds for the environment and local communities.

Our discussion also highlights the vital role of marketing in farming, emphasizing how effective strategies can shift farmers from being price takers to price makers. Drawing on his background in equity sales, Angus shares his insights into the importance of clearly communicating a core offering, a concept inspired by a talk from Tai Lopez. This approach has led to adjustments in branding and online presence, aiming to better connect with consumers. By focusing on clearly defining and presenting a value proposition, Angus hopes to improve market positioning and attract a wider customer base.

Angus takes us further into the intricacies of livestock management, sustainable farming strategies, and the exciting potential of crossbreeding. He shares innovative practices on his farm, from free choice minerals for cattle to using eggmobiles for laying hens. Angus also discusses the integration of European cattle breeds with local genetics and the role of pigs in land rehabilitation. Listen in as we explore his collaborative efforts with larger companies to produce cured meats and wine, the challenges of a small market in South Africa, and the potential for export expansion. Throughout the conversation, Angus’s passion for regenerative agriculture and dedication to sustainable practices shine through, offering valuable insights and inspiration for those interested in the future of farming.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Farmer Angus
Spier Wine
Tai Lopez

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Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Join us as we welcome Tyler and Justin to the Grazing Grass Podcast, where we explore the multi-generational farming legacy of their family in Yakima Valley, Washington. We kick off by discussing how their father began the family farm in the early 1990s and how Tyler and Justin now manage the operation, with Tyler overseeing livestock and Justin focusing on farming. The conversation touches on the integration of the third and fourth generations into the family business and shares historical anecdotes about the challenges their grandfather faced. With Yakima Valley's unique climate and irrigation systems, we also learn about the region's resilience through tough times like the Depression and Dust Bowl.

As we navigate through their journey, the focus shifts to family farming expansion and diversification. Tyler and Justin share personal stories of growing up on a farm and the varied paths their family members have taken. They highlight the humorous challenges of raising pasture pigs and the essential skills like welding that have supported their farming endeavors. The discussion is rich with insights into integrating children into farm life and managing livestock with distinct personalities, offering a unique charm to the farming experience.

Our engaging dialogue continues as we explore livestock expansion, modern challenges, and the intricacies of livestock management and adaptation. Listen in as we discuss the transition from traditional farming practices, the strategic breeding of sheep for hardiness, and innovative grazing techniques. Tyler and Justin share their experiences with irrigation systems and the complexities of rotational grazing. For those interested in starting a farming venture, we provide practical advice and emphasize the importance of hands-on experience. Don't miss this insightful episode, filled with valuable lessons and a deep appreciation for the rich farming history of Yakima Valley.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Cascade Sheep and Cattle Company

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence

Join us as we welcome Ashlynn Jones from Southeast Iowa, who shares her inspiring journey into cattle farming. Starting with her early experiences in 4-H and showing cattle at national shows, Ashlynn gives us an inside look at her background with the Saler breed, renowned for its maternal traits and crossbreeding potential. She, along with her husband, currently manages a commercial Red Angus herd. Also, she passionately discusses how her upbringing and family support ignited her love for cattle.

In another segment, we tackle the complexities of farm family transitions, sharing personal experiences of taking over a multi-generational farm in Eastern Iowa. The discussion highlights the challenges of communication and coordination, emphasizing the importance of strong communication channels and forward-thinking to prevent misunderstandings. We explore the emotional aspects of family dynamics and stress the importance of not taking things personally. By maintaining open communication and remembering that everyone is working towards the same goal, we illustrate how to navigate the intricate process of farm succession effectively.

Additionally, we delve into practical aspects of pasture management and cattle care. From our journey to restore overgrazed pastures through strategic paddock management and rotational grazing, to sharing tips on grass growth and cattle management, this episode is packed with actionable insights. We also explore the use of social media to share agriculture stories, overcoming fears related to video content creation, and connecting with audiences outside of agriculture. Finally, we transition to our famous four questions, where Ashlynn shares her favorite grazing resources, essential farm tools, and advice for newcomers. Tune in for an episode filled with practical tips, personal stories, and valuable advice for anyone passionate about livestock production and sustainable farming practices.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok

Ag Steward's Profitable Regeneration Masterclass Series
Grazing Grass Merch

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Noble Research Institute
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Kencove Farm Fence

Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of Dakota Blanks, a farmer from Appomattox, Virginia, who transitioned from a tobacco family background to grass-based livestock production. Dakota shares his experiences with South Poll Cattle, highlighting his grazing management practices and the integration of various livestock to improve pasture health. We also discuss the challenges and rewards of leasing land, with Dakota offering practical advice for those considering this path. Additionally, Dakota gives us a glimpse into the upcoming South Poll Field Day event he and his wife are hosting, aimed at fostering community engagement and sharing valuable knowledge.

Discover the intricacies of finding the right cattle genetics for a grazing-only system, as Dakota recounts the trials and lessons learned from initial struggles with SimAngus and commercial Angus cattle. Faced with drought and high nitrate levels, Dakota realized the importance of aligning livestock with their environment, leading to a shift towards more adaptable South Pole cattle. This episode emphasizes the significance of selecting the right genetics and nutrition for sustainable farming, showcasing the noticeable improvements brought about by integrating South Poll bulls into an Angus-influenced herd.

In our discussion, we also cover innovative farm management strategies that have revitalized nutrient-depleted land. Dakota shares insights on strategically designed watering systems and grazing practices tailored to various grasses, such as gamma grass and fescue, which enhance soil health and pasture productivity. Finally, we delve into the excitement surrounding the South Poll Grass Cattle Field Day, detailing the event's agenda, activities, and the camaraderie that makes it a unique opportunity for learning and networking. Don't miss out on Dakota's valuable experiences and tips that can help you in your own farming journey.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Windy Acres Farm
Windy Acres Farm on Instagram
South Poll Field Day

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
Kencove Farm Fence