Grazing Grass Podcast sharing Regenerative Ag Stories

Join us as we welcome Jenn Colby of Howling Wolf Farm to the Grazing Grass Podcast for a rich conversation on the art of grass-based sheep farming and land regeneration. Listen in as Jen shares her personal journey to farming, the wisdom she's accumulated through her podcast "Choosing to Farm," and her dedication to improving her Vermont land. Whether you're an aspiring sheep farmer or a seasoned hand, Jenn's insights into the importance of community learning and seeking mentorship are invaluable. We also celebrate the podcast's growth, with a nod to our nearly 100,000 downloads in 2023, and encourage our listeners to connect with fellow grass enthusiasts in our Grazing Grass Community on Facebook.In this episode, we explore the intricate world of managing sheep with practical lessons on breed selection, overcoming parasite challenges, and the transition from raising poultry to managing wool sheep. Hear about Jenn's experiences from visiting over 300 farms and why Katahdin sheep stole her heart. We delve into the management strategies that changed the game for our operations, including the use of flexi-net fencing and how rotational grazing has been pivotal in land management. Discover how adapting farming systems to fit the needs of your livestock can result in a harmonious and productive environment, and why the right tools and workshops can make all the difference.The conversation shifts to innovative farming practices that are both sustainable and beneficial for the ecosystem. Learn about the use of sheep in land management. We discuss bale grazing techniques, the logistics of feeding livestock, and the importance of choosing the right supplements to ensure animal health. With Jenn Colby's expertise, we touch on the nuances of lambing, sheep tagging, and the advantages of bell grazing. So, grab your favorite headlamp and a pair of sturdy boots, and join us for an episode brimming with actionable farming knowledge that will help you navigate the landscape of livestock management with confidence.Famour Four Questions1. What is your favorite grazing Grass related book or resource?Jenn mentioned that her favorite book related to grazing grass is "The Art and Science of Grazing" by Sarah Flack. Also, the books by Greg Judy.2. What is your favorite tool to use on the farm?Jenn mentioned two essential tools she uses on her farm. The first one is a headlamp, and the second one is comfortable rubber boots.3. What would you tell someone just getting started?Jenn advised beginners to find pasture walks, workshops, and visit other farms. She believes there is a lot to learn from seeing how others manage their operations.4. Where can others find out more about you?Jenn shared multiple resources to learn more about her including her farm website `howlingwolffarm.com`, her podcast `choosingtofarm.com` and social media handles under the names `Howling Wolf Farm` and `Choosing to Farm` on Facebook and Instagram. Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

Join us as we welcome Webb Dulin, a dedicated farmer from Maryland's Eastern Shore, who walks us through his transformative journey into grass-fed beef farming. Webb shares his fascinating transition from crop farming to raising cattle, offering a glimpse into the unique challenges he faced due to environmental concerns and the area's high real estate values. Listen in as he reveals the strategies that helped him adapt his family's generational farming legacy into a thriving livestock operation, against the backdrop of a region more known for its crop cultivation than cattle rearing.Explore the nuances of regenerative agriculture with Webb as he details the ins and outs of starting a grass-fed livestock operation from scratch. Discover the careful considerations that go into selecting the right cattle breeds for grass efficiency and the importance of implementing rotational grazing systems. Webb provides a compelling narrative on the economic aspects of sustainable farming, including the wisdom of growing operations debt-free and the intricate balance between profitability and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.In this episode, we delve into the trials and triumphs of scaling up a beef farming venture, touching on topics from land acquisition to direct-to-consumer marketing strategies. Webb offers insight into how he navigated the turbulent times of the COVID-19 pandemic, pivoting his business model to meet new market demands. He also emphasizes the importance of embracing innovation and community engagement, and he invites fellow farmers to connect with Twin Cedar Farms, a testament to the resilience and adaptability that hallmark modern regenerative farming practices.Websitehttps://www.twincedarfarms.com/Instagram linkhttps://instagram.com/twincedarfarms?igshid=YzAwZjE1ZTI0Zg==Facebook linkhttps://www.facebook.com/twincedarfarmsllc?mibextid=9R9pXO Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, Cal talks with Jake DeWoody - a regenerative farmer from Arkansas - about his journey in grass farming. Jake shares his thoughts on the importance of adapting farming practices to your specific context, the value of using technology and resources available on the internet, and their experiences with the Shade Shanty 600. Jake also provides insights into his methods for making the most out of their cattle herd and how moving towards regenerative farming practices greatly improved his agricultural operations.Famour Four QuestionsFirstly, Jake's favorite grazing grass-related resources are the books 'Call of the Reed Warbler' by Charlie Massey and 'Ranching Like a Twelve-Year-Old' by an author named Tom. He found these books to provide useful insights applicable to his grazing context. Secondly, Jake's go-to farm tool is the Knipex Cobra, a highly versatile and durable hand tool that he uses daily for various tasks. If anyone wants to reach out to him through social media, Jake advises they provide a reason for their contact in their Facebook message. Thirdly, Jake offers advice to newcomers in farming or grazing. He stresses the importance of applying the learned information from different resources in a way that fits the specific context of their farm. Lastly, people can find more about Jake through his Facebook account under the name 'Jake DeWoody' and his YouTube channel 'Terrapin Neck Creek Farm'.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdbRvHgu5llQqABl6We7vYw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jake.dewoody.7 Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode, beginner rancher Nitesh Sakpal shares his transformative journey from conventional to regenerative farming. He talks about his experiences with Balancer cows, a cross between Gelbvieh and Red Angus breeds, and discusses the importance of rotational grazing and regenerative practices. The episode also delves into the challenges of managing mesquite trees, mechanical grubbing, and the benefits of working with the NRCS for grazing projects. Finally, Nitesh offers his advice for those starting out in the ranching world.Social media:Instagram: SBARJ CATTLE COMPANY LLC Facebook: Nitesh SakpalDiscover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today! Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of grazing and livestock management with cattle behaviorist, Bob Kinford. He discusses the intriguing distinctions between the grazing patterns of different livestock and how understanding these can revolutionize your herd management strategies. Bob shares his insights on the effects of stress on livestock, the concept of 'cow time', and the potential of enhancing grass growth through strategic grazing.Social media:Website: https://migratorygrazing.com/Facebook: Bob KinfordDiscover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today! Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode, we're joined by Glenn McCaig, a devoted farmer and rare breed aficionado, who imparts his knowledge on the subject of regenerative grazing and holistic farming. Glenn takes us through his transformative journey from traditional farming techniques to embracing a more integrative and holistic method, underscoring the crucial role of adaptability and courage to take risks. Venturing into the fascinating world of Lynch Lineback cattle, Glenn unfolds their rich history, the distinct color gene they possess, and their significant contribution to an innovative calf sharing program. The conversation then shifts to delve into the intriguing concept of epigenetics, the importance of diversity in the ecosystem, and natural behavior patterns of cattle. The discussion focuses on the importance of minimizing stress levels in cattle and enabling them to display their natural behaviors. Glenn leaves budding farmers with some precious nuggets of wisdom. He emphasizes the importance of patience, the need to question everything, and the value of recognizing and celebrating even small strides of progress in the farming journey.Resources Mentioned:Mark Bader - The Ecology of Chemical Energy - PFI 2018 Annual Conference Social media:Facebook: FineLine Farm Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today! Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode, we talk to Pennsylvania-based sheep farmer Nathan Smelser to discuss his journey from being a novice to an experienced farmer. Nathan shares his experiences, emphasizing the importance of family dynamics, resilience, continuous learning, and regenerative grazing. He provides detailed information about establishing a farm, including the challenges of purchasing land with poor soil and installing fencing. The episode provides valuable insights and practical advice, particularly on the use of high tensile and Polywire fencing for sheep grazing.Social media:Facebook: PA Lamb FarmDiscover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today! Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode, we're joined by Meg Greski, an agricultural consultant and grass farmer based in Oklahoma. Meg talks about the significance of adaptive grazing and mental health in successful farming. She shares insightful experiences from her early career as an intern for grass farming expert, Greg Judy, where she learned about regenerative agriculture and fiscal management. Meg speaks about her journey in establishing Rhinestone Cattle Company, addressing challenges in land leasing, and moving her business to Oklahoma. This episode also covers topics such as the practice of sell-by marketing, tools for farm management, and the potential of virtual fencing technologies. At the end, Meg stresses the importance of maintaining mental health and staying focused on one's goals for effective and sustainable farming.Books/Resources Mentioned:Building a Sustainable Business by Sarah Grant (Amazon)The Turnaround: A Rancher's Story by Dave Pratt (Amazon)Healthy Land, Happy Families and Profitable Businesses: Essays to Improve Your Land, Your Life and Your Bottom Line by Dave Pratt (Amazon)Social media:Email: mgcows@gmail.comYoutube: Regenerative Ranching with MegDiscover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today! Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode, successful local farmer Stephen Skrenta of Acabonac Farms in Long Island, New York takes listeners on a journey through Long Island’s thriving agricultural scene. Stephen shares his experience of growing his business from a 20-acre farm to a sprawling enterprise with grass-fed beef, lamb, pork, and chicken. He discusses the unique challenges and rewards of farming on an island, from the intricacies of livestock farming infrastructure to navigating the steep learning curve in the industry. Stephen also shares his commitment to animal welfare and regenerative farming, his approach to diversification, and the importance of sustainable agriculture.Social media:Instagram:@acabonacfarmsFacebook: Acabonac Farms Website: https://www.acabonacfarms.com/Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today! Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!

In this episode, desert rancher Alejandro Carrillo shares his experiences and insights on regenerative desert ranching. With over 30,000 acres of land, Alejandro discusses the art of holistic management, the challenges of grazing cattle in a desert, and how technology can revolutionize ranching practices. He highlights the importance of having the right cattle genetics for a given environment, the shift from conventional to regenerative ranching, and the respect for natural succession that leads to a thriving ranch. The episode also covers cattle grazing management for optimal performance and the role of technology in promoting sustainable ranching practices.Social media:Instagram:@lasdamascattleranchFacebook: Alejandro CarrilloWebsite: https://www.desertgrasslands.com/Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today! Follow us on social media!Website: https://grazinggrass.com/Facebook: Grazing Grass PodcastInstagram: @grazinggrassTwitter: @grazing_grassAffiliate links: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!