In this podcast interview, host John Kempf and Canadian farmer Derek Axten discuss Derek’s path to profitable farming practices. This journey started in 2007 when Derek made a trip to Dakota Lakes Research Farm where he witnessed soil health and water infiltration levels beyond which he knew were possible. In subsequent trips to Dakota Lakes and visits to Gabe Brown’s ranch, Derek learned soil and crop management principles which he’s adapted to his own farm. In this episode, learn about the methods and systems Derek has applied and how they’ve changed the trajectory of his farm from soil health and economic perspectives. 

Derek describes his system of inter-cropping and the management practices he employs to increase soil infiltration. He and John also discuss controlled traffic farming, Derek’s liquid fertilizer regimen, and decreasing the use of applied nitrogen and other synthetic inputs.

Listen to learn how Derek approaches:

• Soil management tactics and results  
• Water infiltration
• Intercropping with two or more crops
• Fertility applications and compost teas
• Tillage
• Controlled traffic farming

 

Support For This ShowThis show is brought to you by AEA, helping professional growers make more money using regenerative agriculture since 2006.

If you grow on a large scale and are looking to increase crop revenue and quality, email [email protected] or call 800-495-6603 to be connected with a dedicated AEA crop consultant.

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Feedback & BookingPlease send your feedback, requests for topics or guests, or a booking request: [email protected]

Email John directly: [email protected]

CreditsThis episode was recorded by John Kempf and Derek Axten and produced by Nathan Harman, Robin Kitowski, and Anna Kempf.

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