Understanding What We Do
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.
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