In this  episode , we feature Austin Unruh, the founder of Trees for Graziers. Austin's journey into the world of silvopasture and agroforestry began in 2017 when he started planting trees along streams to improve water quality. Since then, his passion for integrating trees into pasture systems has grown, and he has worked with grass-fed dairy operators to transform their pastures using innovative agroforestry practices. His expertise in overcoming challenges, such as unsuccessful tree planting attempts and livestock management, has positioned him as a leader in the field, achieving a remarkable 90% success rate in tree establishment.

Topics covered in the episode include:

• The integration of trees into pasture systems through silvopasture
• Challenges and opportunities in implementing silvopasture
• Strategies for protecting young trees from cattle and other threats
• Best practices for tree establishment and care
• Tree care and watering tips
• Insights into silvopasture resources and tools

You should listen to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of how integrating trees into pastures can create a harmonious balance between agriculture and ecology. Austin Unruh shares invaluable insights, practical strategies, and lessons learned from his experiences, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in regenerative agriculture and agroforestry. Whether you're a seasoned grazer or new to the concept, this episode promises to inspire and educate, offering tips and resources to help you successfully implement silvopasture on your farm.

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Trees for Graziers

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Becky Szarzynski is a pioneering farmer in the field of sustainable farming and regenerative agriculture. With her independent venture, Ember Cattle Company, based in Fairfield, Virginia, Becky has transformed her family's farming legacy into a solo endeavor. Her journey is marked by innovative practices such as intensifying grazing techniques and focusing on more frequent moves. Becky's story is a compelling narrative of resilience and passion as she navigates the complexities of transitioning from a joint family operation to a successful independent farm business, all while maintaining strong family ties.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Transition from joint family farming to independent farming
• Innovations in grazing practices and cattle management
• Challenges of non-selective grazing and managing Sericea lespedeza
• Integration of sheep alongside cattle
• Emotional and mental challenges of family farm dynamics
• The role of cattle genetics in improving herd quality
• Importance of dung beetles in regenerative agriculture
• Efficient cattle management with ATVs
• Future prospects of regenerative agriculture in the USA

Listening to this podcast offers invaluable insights into the world of regenerative agriculture through Becky's firsthand experiences and expertise. Whether you're an aspiring farmer or a seasoned agricultural enthusiast, Becky's innovative approaches and practical tips provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainable farming practices. Her journey underscores the potential for personal growth and success in agriculture, encouraging listeners to embrace both the challenges and rewards of this dynamic field.

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Ember Cattle Company

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Guest Revisit

Eric Chaya is a visionary in the realm of sustainable agriculture and military synergy. Originating from Wisconsin, Eric's journey has taken him from a traditional dairy-rich environment to pioneering innovative agricultural practices on military lands in California. His career path was notably influenced by his military service, which included a transformative period at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Here, he began to experiment with regenerative farming techniques using livestock such as cattle, pigs, and chickens to rejuvenate land. Eric's passion for sustainable farming and his military discipline have merged to create the Regenerative Grazing Open Air Lab (R-GOAL) in San Luis Obispo, where he continues to blend agricultural innovation with military training to enhance land stewardship and community resilience.

The podcast covers a range of topics, including:

• Eric's transition from Wisconsin to California and his introduction to regenerative agriculture
• His experiences in Africa and the U.S. with livestock relocation
• The integration of agricultural practices into military training environments
• The successful collaboration between military personnel and local ranchers
• The innovative grazing management practices on Department of Defense lands
• The personal anecdotes of his journey, including the emotional decision to part with his Brahman herd
• The ecological benefits observed from these practices, such as increased wildlife sightings and improved landscapes

Listeners should tune in to this episode to gain insights into the unique intersection of military operations and sustainable agriculture. Eric's story is not only inspiring but also offers practical lessons on how dedication and adaptability can lead to remarkable outcomes in land management. The podcast provides a compelling blueprint for future initiatives that harmonize land use, community resilience, and ecological benefits, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in regenerative farming, military innovation, or environmental sustainability.

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Eric on LinkedIn

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Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Eric Czaja and Regenerative Ranching

Ross McGarva is a seasoned rancher with deep roots in the agricultural world. His family has been involved in ranching since 1918, and Ross himself has embarked on a remarkable journey across the United States, managing various livestock species such as cattle, meat goats, and hair sheep. Having transitioned from California to Texas, with stops in Oregon, Ross has accumulated a wealth of experience in livestock management and sustainable farming practices. His story is filled with captivating anecdotes and valuable lessons drawn from his family's rich ranching history and his own innovative ventures, such as revitalizing a meat processing business and adopting high-density grazing techniques. 

Throughout the episode, listeners will explore a diverse range of topics related to livestock management and sustainable farming, including:

• The intricacies of managing goats and dealing with predators.
• The challenges of meat processing and direct-to-consumer sales.
• The innovative use of high-density grazing techniques to improve soil health and ecological balance. - 
• Practical insights into the use of electric fencing.
• The importance of generational transition in farming. 
• Tools and resources that can enhance farming efficiency.
• Economic and logistical challenges faced in the meat processing industry.
• The impact of environmental factors on agricultural planning. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in agriculture, whether you are a seasoned farmer or someone just beginning to explore the field. Ross McGarva's wealth of knowledge and experience provides invaluable insights into successful livestock management and sustainable farming practices. His journey offers inspiration and practical advice for adapting to the ever-evolving agricultural landscape. With a mix of humor, personal anecdotes, and expert guidance, this episode will not only educate but also motivate listeners to pursue innovative solutions and strategies for achieving success and sustainability in agriculture.

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McGarva Ranch Pasture Division

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Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Ross McGarva's Journey

Aaron and Stephanie Moody are the passionate and dedicated couple behind Moody Family Farm in Bernardston, Massachusetts. Both working as full-time special education teachers, they have embarked on a fulfilling journey into agriculture, combining Aaron’s nostalgic ties to farming from his childhood and Stephanie’s newfound enthusiasm for New England farm life. Their venture, which began in 2014 with grazing cattle, has blossomed into a commitment to sustainable farming practices and community engagement, all while raising their two boys in an environment enriched by the values of hard work and self-sufficiency.

Topics covered in the podcast episode include:

• The Moody family's transition from city life to country farming.
• Challenges and successes in starting a farm on a budget.
• Transitioning to regenerative farming practices.
• Experiences with rotational grazing and meat processing.
• Opening a farm store and community engagement.
• Diverse livestock farming and the importance of USDA inspections.
• Expanding the livestock herd and exploring silvopasturing.
• Inspirations from resources like "Salad Bar Beef" by Joel Salatin.
• The balance of managing teaching careers with farm responsibilities.
• Lessons learned and aspirations for sustainable farming.

Listeners should tune into this episode to gain a heartfelt and insightful look into the world of small-scale, sustainable farming. The Moodys' journey offers practical wisdom and inspiration for aspiring farmers and those interested in agriculture. Through candid discussions on their successes and missteps, listeners can learn valuable lessons about community support, resource management, and the rewarding challenges of farming. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about self-sufficiency and regenerative agriculture, as it provides both a realistic portrayal and a hopeful vision of farming life.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Moody Family Farm on Instagram

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Moody Family Farm

In this episode, we are joined by Trevor and Cheryl Brannvold, the passionate owners of GBT Angus in Southeast Saskatchewan. Their journey into cattle farming began in Trevor's high school years and has since blossomed into a successful family business that also includes a budding sheep enterprise managed by their son. With a focus on regenerative agriculture, Trevor and Cheryl share their experiences and insights on modern livestock practices, sustainability, and resilience, providing listeners with a comprehensive look at their innovative approach to farming.

Topics covered include:

• The Brannvold family's journey with Angus cattle
• The benefits of calving at two years of age versus three years of age
• Insights into regenerative grazing practices
• The impact of the BSE crisis on their operations
• The transformative role of continuous education and conferences in enhancing their farming practices
• The logistics of hosting an online bull sale
• The genetic selection criteria for fertility and practicality
• The use of stockpiled grazing to support cattle during harsh winters

Listeners should tune in to this episode to discover practical insights into sustainable livestock production and the evolving landscape of cattle farming. Trevor and Cheryl's firsthand experiences and strategic decisions offer valuable lessons for both seasoned farmers and those new to the field. With a focus on profitability and sustainability, this episode provides inspiration and guidance for anyone interested in embracing change and innovation in agriculture.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
GBT Angus
Online Bull Auction

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Trevor and Cheryl Branvold

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, Nathan Stucky of Stucky Family Ranch returns to discuss the latest innovations in sustainable agriculture. From integrating new cattle genetics to exploring advanced data collection with Rooted Ag, Nathan shares his journey over the past year. He delves into the challenges of adaptive grazing and the use of AI in modern farming, highlighting strategies to improve cattle health and enhance farm revenue. Nathan also shares his insights on managing social media challenges and future plans to combat common cattle issues through innovative solutions.

Today's topics include:

• New cattle genetics integration
• Data collection with Rooted Ag
• Challenges of adaptive grazing
• AI in modern farming
• Improving cattle health
• Enhancing farm revenue
• Social media management

Listen to this episode to gain valuable insights from Nathan Stucky's pioneering work in sustainable agriculture. Discover how innovative genetics, AI tools, and adaptive grazing strategies can revolutionize your farming practices and help you navigate the complexities of modern livestock production. Whether you're an experienced rancher or new to the field, this episode offers practical tips and inspiration to drive your agricultural success.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Strucky Family Ranch
Rooted Ag

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - 159. Pioneering New Paths in Agriculture with Nathan Stucky

Sean Smith, the guest of this episode, is a dedicated and innovative dairy farmer from Clanman Farm in Manitoba. With a deep-rooted family history in dairy farming, Sean has embraced both traditional practices and modern technology to enhance his farm's operations. His commitment to sustainable farming is evident in his adoption of Jersey cows for their high butterfat content and the integration of advanced robotic milking systems like the DeLaval VMS. Sean's passion for dairy farming was kindled in his youth through participation in 4-H clubs and cattle shows, and he continues to build on his family's legacy of responsible and efficient farming.

• This episode covers a range of topics including:
• The evolution of Clanman Farm and its use of Jersey cows
• Integration of robotic milking systems and their impact on operations
• Canada’s supply management system and its effect on small farms
• Strategies for balancing grazing with Total Mixed Ration feeding
• The role of dairy genetics and the use of sexed semen in herd management
• Sustainable pasture management practices and soil health
• Insights from a soil microorganisms class and its influence on farm practices
• Practical advice for aspiring farmers and Sean’s favorite resources for grazing

Listeners should tune in to this episode for a comprehensive understanding of how tradition and innovation can coexist in modern dairy farming. Sean Smith offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for both seasoned farmers and newcomers, covering everything from pasture management to advanced breeding techniques. His passion for sustainability and efficiency shines through, making this episode an inspiring resource for anyone interested in the future of dairy farming. Whether you're looking to enhance your current practices or simply gain insights into the evolving landscape of agriculture, Sean's experiences and expertise provide valuable takeaways.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Clanman Jerseys

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Fast Five with Sean Smith

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, esteemed cattle consultant Steve Campbell shares his remarkable journey from a stocker cattle manager to a leading figure in grass-finished beef production. Following a life-altering leg injury in 1999, Steve's career took a transformative path as he embraced regenerative practices, heavily influenced by the Stockman Grass Farmer magazine. His expertise in optimizing grass and mineral content has led to groundbreaking methods for disease prevention, such as eliminating pink eye and foot rot. Steve's commitment to sustainable cattle management, along with his innovative approach to genetic and epigenetic cattle selection, makes this episode a treasure trove of insights for those interested in elevating cattle development.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Selecting cattle for grass efficiency
• Genetic and epigenetic cattle selection
• Selecting bulls for cattle improvement
• Assessing cattle fertility and indicators
• Grazing management and cattle selection

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainable cattle management and regenerative agriculture. Steve Campbell's profound insights into strategic breeding, disease prevention, and the optimization of grass and mineral content provide invaluable knowledge for both seasoned grazers and newcomers. By listening, you'll gain practical tips and tools to enhance your cattle management practices and improve meat quality while addressing challenges such as fertility and udder quality. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from a true pioneer in the field.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Tailor Made Cattle

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

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• (00:00) - Introduction

Join us on a journey to Emory, Texas, as we explore the innovative multi-species ranching operation at Legends Cattle Company with our guests, Thomas and Emily. Thomas shares how their family-run ranch has expanded over five generations, evolving from a traditional cattle farm into a diverse ecosystem that includes sheep, pigs, and chickens, all managed through grass finishing. Emily, hailing from a beach town in California, talks about her vital role in marketing and sales for their Born and Raised brand, which sells directly to consumers. Together, they offer insights into their sustainable grazing techniques and how they are adapting to the varied needs of their livestock while improving land management.

In an intriguing segment, Thomas and Emily recount their unexpected paths into the world of ranching and livestock marketing. Despite starting as a city boy, Thomas landed a marketing role at Morning Rains Ranch and found a new connection with nature, which now helps him understand and respect animals. Emily, inspired by her grandfather's ranch and her involvement with the FFA, shares her journey from a love of animals in high school to a rewarding career in agriculture. Their stories underscore how past experiences and chance moments can lead to unexpected career paths in the ranching world.

We also discuss the Garrett family's evolution from traditional cattle farming to a leading seed stock producer focused on genetics and production. The conversation highlights their commitment to regenerative practices, such as rotational grazing, and the integration of multiple proteins like chicken, pork, and lamb. Thomas and Emily reveal the logistics behind their direct-to-consumer sales, offering a glimpse into their meat bundle options and customer preferences. From sustainable practices to local sourcing and small batch processing, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in diversified livestock operations and the benefits of grass-finishing livestock for optimal nutrition.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Born & Raised

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Today's Show