Ancestral Farming

Ancestral farming is about fostering a connection to the land, working in harmony with natural processes, and passing down knowledge that nurtures both the environment and future generations.

What is Ancestral Farming

Ancestral farming refers to traditional agricultural practices passed down through generations, often rooted in a deep understanding of the local environment and ecosystems. These methods typically prioritize sustainability, biodiversity, and natural rhythms of the land, in contrast to more modern, industrialized farming techniques.

Key aspects of ancestral farming include crop rotation, integrated livestock systems, use of heirloom plant varieties, and the careful management of soil health through natural means like composting and organic fertilization. It often incorporates practices such as rotational grazing for livestock, intercropping, and agroforestry—methods that work with nature to maintain a healthy balance between land, plants, and animals.

At its core, ancestral farming is about fostering a connection to the land, working in harmony with natural processes, and passing down knowledge that nurtures both the environment and future generations.

The Livestock Guardian Dog in an Ancestral Farming Dynamic

Anatolian Shepherds are an ancient livestock guardian breed, originating over 4,000 years ago in the rugged terrain of Turkey. Bred to protect flocks from formidable predators such as wolves and bears, these dogs have developed an unmatched blend of intelligence, independence, and unwavering dedication to their herd.

At Sun Kissed Ridges, our Anatolian Shepherds are essential partners in safeguarding our livestock from heavy predation. Their keen instincts, territorial nature, and ability to assess threats make them highly effective guardians, ensuring the safety of our cattle, sheep, and hogs. Unlike more aggressive protection breeds, Anatolians rely on deterrence—establishing a watchful yet calm presence that keeps predators at bay without unnecessary confrontation.

With their strong bond to the animals they protect and their ability to thrive in a pasture-based system, our Anatolian Shepherds play a vital role in our regenerative farming practices. Their presence allows our livestock to graze and forage without stress, contributing to healthier animals and a balanced ecosystem. Loyal, intelligent, and deeply instinctual, these remarkable dogs embody the harmony between nature and stewardship that defines Sun Kissed Ridges.

Managed Intensive Grazing

Managed intensive grazing (MIG) is a livestock management practice in which animals are rotated through multiple paddocks. This allows controlled grazing periods followed by rest and regrowth phases for pastures. This method emphasizes "intensive management" rather than "intensive pasture use," balancing available forage with animal demand to enhance soil health, increase forage productivity, and improve overall pasture fertility.

Rooted in ancestral farming traditions, MIG mirrors time-tested practices where herders move livestock across diverse grazing areas, promoting natural land regeneration and sustainable resource use. MIG fosters a harmonious relationship between livestock and the environment by mimicking these traditional patterns, contributing to resilient agricultural ecosystems.

In the context of regenerative agriculture, MIG plays a pivotal role by enhancing soil health, increasing biodiversity, and improving water retention. This approach sustains the land and actively regenerates it, leading to more resilient farming systems and higher-quality produce.

Rotational Grazing

Rotational grazing is a livestock management practice where animals are systematically moved between paddocks, allowing grazed areas time to rest and regenerate. This method enhances soil health, promotes diverse plant growth, and improves forage quality. Rooted in ancestral farming traditions, rotational grazing mimics natural herd movements, fostering a balanced ecosystem and sustainable land use. As a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture, it contributes to climate resilience by increasing carbon sequestration and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

In Salad Bar Beef, Joel Salatin emphasizes the importance of rotational grazing, where livestock are moved through different pasture sections to manage grazing pressure effectively. This practice encourages cattle to consume not only palatable grasses but also weeds and less desirable plants. By doing so, the regrowth of these less favored species is suppressed, leading to improved pasture composition and natural control of invasive plants. This method enhances soil health and promotes a balanced ecosystem, aligning with regenerative agriculture principles.

For a visual explanation, you might find this video helpful:

How to Deal with Weeds | Free Session from Joel Salatin's Cattle Grazing Management

Landrace Animals

At Sun Kissed Ridges, we rely on landrace animals—hardy, locally adapted breeds that have evolved over generations to thrive in specific environments. Unlike standardized breeds, these animals develop traits suited to their surroundings, making them naturally resilient to climate shifts, disease, and the challenges of pasture-based farming. Their adaptability allows them to flourish with minimal intervention, reducing the need for medications, artificial shelter, and supplemental feed.

Landrace animals contribute to soil health, biodiversity, and natural land management by instinctively foraging on a diverse range of vegetation. Their grazing habits help control invasive plant species while enriching the land, aligning perfectly with our commitment to regenerative agriculture. These traits make them an essential part of our sustainable farming system, allowing us to work with nature rather than against it.