Join us as we reconnect with Eli Mack of Mack Farms, who returns to share the evolution of his regenerative livestock operation since his initial visit on the podcast. Eli gives us an enlightening update on his holistic management training and how it's shaping the expansion of his farm. Focusing on cattle and sheep, and occasionally poultry, Eli offers valuable insights into the art of regenerative grazing. As we chat, we also discuss the broader impacts of these practices on the ecosystem and community, and how they're paving the way for the future of agriculture.

In our conversation, we tackle the practical aspects of expanding livestock operations, with personal anecdotes about land acquisition and the challenges that come with it, such as water access and managing parasite issues with minimal intervention. Eli and I both share experiences from our respective farms, highlighting the importance of livestock genetics in creating hardy breeds and our experiments with mixed-species grazing and innovative fencing strategies. These stories not only provide a peek into the daily life of a regenerative farmer but also serve as a testament to the commitment required to maintain and grow a successful operation.

Finally, we wrap up with an exploration of the principles of holistic land management and the transformative journey of becoming an accredited professional with the Savory Institute. Eli's experiences underscore the value of continuous learning and adapting, while I chime in with my own approach to embracing progress and the resources that have influenced my farming practices. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or someone curious about sustainable agriculture, this episode is packed with practical advice, personal reflections, and encouragement to take that first step towards a regenerative future.

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Join us as we welcome Charles "Chuck" Rolla from the Noble Research Institute for a rich conversation about the dynamic world of agriculture, regenerative practices, and the intricacies of pecan production. Chuck shares his journey from beginnings on a family ranch to his academic pursuits in animal and crop sciences, and his ultimate role as a pecan specialist and regenerative grazing educator. Throughout the discussion, Chuck illuminates the transformative power of regenerative grazing courses designed to help ranchers craft sustainable operations and seamlessly integrate grazing with pecan orchards for enhanced benefits.

Listen in as Chuck takes us through the evolution of his agricultural practices, from managing livestock to embracing the principles of regenerative agriculture. His experience spans from traditional cattle rearing to raising miniature Herefords, all while fostering soil health and sustainability. Chuck also unpacks the complexities of forage management and the innovative use of technology to optimize grazing strategies. By sharing his own experiences and the educational resources offered by the Noble Research Institute, Chuck offers invaluable insights into the practicalities of agricultural success.

Our discussion culminates in a comprehensive look at the symbiotic relationship between livestock and pecan orchards. Chuck provides a deep understanding of how integrating animals into tree farming can boost soil health, enhance tree production, and ultimately lead to a more profitable and ecologically sound agricultural system. He addresses common concerns and misconceptions, offering solutions and championing a paradigm shift towards this integrated approach. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to the field, Chuck's expertise in both grazing management and pecan production offers a fresh perspective on the future of sustainable agriculture.

Links mentioned in the episode:
Noble Research Institute

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Join me, Cal Hardage, on the Grazing Grass Podcast for an enlightening discussion on the intricacies of cattle raising, where we examine the second part of the Lasater Philosophy, focusing on the significance of reproductive efficiency in beef production. Discover Tom Lasater's unconventional approach to heifer retention, advocating for breeding at a young age and the merits of a condensed, 65-day breeding period. Listen in as I reflect on the initial hesitation surrounding these methods, the advantages they present for calving ahead of the herd, and how this strategy can transform a grass-fed beef operation. The dialogue invites ranchers to engage with these breeding philosophies and assess their practical applications on the field.

The episode also delves into the emotional and economic challenges of herd management, sharing a personal tale of a difficult calving and the subsequent culling decision, highlighting the necessity of record-keeping in monitoring herd progress. Explore the concept of performance testing in natural environments, the principle of direct selection in breeding, and how immediate, decisive changes can yield a more efficient herd. Engage with the narrative of how ignoring non-essential traits and prioritizing reproductive efficiency can dramatically enhance a ranch's productivity, as we dissect these topics with the wisdom gleaned from experiences both personal and shared by others in the field, including insights from Allen Williams, as discussed in the Herd Quitter podcast.