Grazing Grass Podcast sharing Regenerative Ag Stories – Details, episodes & analysis

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

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

Join us on this enlightening episode as we welcome Dennis Stout, a wind energy expert with over 18 years of experience, to explore the world of renewable energy, focusing on wind energy projects. Dennis provides an extensive overview of renewable energy, discussing its definition, benefits, and real-world impacts on rural America. Listen in as we tackle the advantages and controversies surrounding wind energy, particularly in contentious areas like northeast Oklahoma. Dennis also answers questions from our Grazing Grass community, offering insights to help listeners make informed decisions about renewable energy.

Throughout our conversation, we cover various aspects of wind energy, from the substantial size of modern turbines to the intricate process of integrating their power into the grid. Dennis explains the factors critical to establishing a wind farm, such as favorable wind conditions and supportive local regulations. We also discuss the financial benefits for landowners and the minimal land footprint of wind turbines, emphasizing the positive impact on farmers and ranchers.

Additionally, Dennis addresses several important concerns, including the evolution of turbine designs to reduce bird strikes and the minimal impact of wind farms on weather patterns and groundwater. We also explore the logistics of wind turbines, such as ice buildup precautions and the importance of long-term lease agreements. Dennis shares valuable advice for farmers negotiating with energy companies and highlights federal energy policy incentives that support renewable energy projects. Finally, we direct listeners to Dennis's educational platforms, including CropAmerica.com and WindFarmGuy.com, for further information on renewable energy.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:
CROP America
WindFarmGuy
WindFarmGuy on YouTube

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Show notes available at https://grazinggrass.com/episodes/32

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Show notes available at https://grazinggrass.com/episodes/31

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Show notes available at https://grazinggrass.com/episodes/30

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Website: https://grazinggrass.com/

Facebook: Grazing Grass Podcast

Instagram: @grazinggrass

Twitter: @grazing_grass

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Riverside - Create professional-quality podcast episodes with ease using Riverside's seamless recording and editing tools.
Podium - Unlock your podcast's potential with Podium, the AI copywriter for show notes, articles, social posts, and more!

Show notes available at https://grazinggrass.com/episodes/29

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Website: https://grazinggrass.com/

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Show notes available at https://www.grazinggrass.com/episodes/28

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Website: https://grazinggrass.com/

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Twitter: @grazing_grass

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Show notes available at https://grazinggrass.com/episodes/27.

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Website: https://grazinggrass.com/

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Instagram: @grazinggrass

Twitter: @grazing_grass

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Riverside - Create professional-quality podcast episodes with ease using Riverside's seamless recording and editing tools.
Podium - Unlock your podcast's potential with Podium, the AI copywriter for show notes, articles, social posts, and more!

Show notes available at https://grazinggrass.com/episodes/26

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Website: https://grazinggrass.com/

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Instagram: @grazinggrass

Twitter: @grazing_grass

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Riverside - Create professional-quality podcast episodes with ease using Riverside's seamless recording and editing tools.
Podium - Unlock your podcast's potential with Podium, the AI copywriter for show notes, articles, social posts, and more!