Join us for an insightful conversation with Hunter Lehman of Grazing Lands as we explore his transformative journey from managing a hunting property to embracing regenerative grazing near Stockdale, Texas. Hunter shares how he stays connected with his former ranch through innovative tools like virtual fencing, and discusses the transition from stocker cows to a static cow-calf herd. We touch on the benefits of having a well-trained herd, especially during hunting season, and Hunter's strategies for dealing with invasive plants like sericea lespedeza.

In this episode, we also discuss Hunter's new role at Grazing Lands, a subsidiary of Soilworks Natural Capital dedicated to regenerative agriculture. Hunter provides insights into the use of technology such as virtual fencing and heat maps to optimize cattle management and animal welfare. We talk about the challenges of integrating cool-season grasses with recreational land use, and the mission of Grazing Lands to set a standard for regenerative agriculture in America through profitable, large-scale operations.

Additionally, we explore various cattle management strategies, from the use of polywire fencing to managing stocking rates and transitioning herds to different environments. Hunter emphasizes the importance of selecting the right genetics for resilience and productivity, sharing his experience with breeds like Beefmaster and Red Angus. We also touch on the innovative breeding strategies of Steven Lukefahr and the potential of African cattle genetics for regenerative farming. Listen in as we wrap up with practical advice for newcomers to agriculture and the influential work of grazing expert Dick Richardson.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Join us on the Grazing Grass Podcast as we continue our journey into the fascinating world of livestock color genetics. In this episode, we explore the practical aspects and implications for breeders, focusing on the two primary pigments—eumelanin (black) and pheomelanin (tan)—that determine livestock coat color. We simplify the terminology for ease of understanding and revisit key genetic loci, such as the extension and agouti loci, which play significant roles in coat color variations in cattle. Additionally, we discuss unique alleles like black-red, where calves change color as they age, and dominant red, which overrides the extension locus. Drawing insights from Dr. Sponenberg's "Practical Color Genetics for Livestock Breeders," we offer a comprehensive guide for beef and dairy cattle breeding.

In our discussion on cattle color dilution genetics, we shed light on the Simmental and Charolais dilution alleles, which impact coat colors, resulting in lighter shades like orange, yellow, and various grays. We also touch on other breeds such as Galloway and Dexter, which have their unique dilution genes that can sometimes lead to unexpected coat colors. Furthermore, we explore the genetic complexity in breeds like Brown Swiss and Murray Greys, and mention the recently identified Larson Blue dilution gene, enriching our understanding of the intricate genetics behind cattle coat colors.

Our exploration doesn't stop there; we also delve into the intriguing patterns of white spotting genetics in cattle. From the "wading" allele, which creates white patterns on the lower legs and belly, to the "white sides" allele characterized by animals with white sides and pigmented legs, we cover a wide range of patterns. We discuss speckled patterns such as "colorsided," "fisheagle," and "spitting cobra," along with the roan category and its variations like "marocha" and "salineiro." Finally, we examine modifiers like "brockle," "ticking," and "smudge," which add complexity to these patterns. This episode promises a rich and informative discussion on the genetic factors shaping the diverse and beautiful coat colors of livestock.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence

Join us for an engaging episode where we explore the transformative journey of Mike, a third-generation cattle and crop farmer from central Iowa, as he transitions from conventional farming to regenerative grazing practices. Mike candidly shares his frustrations with overgrazing and the inspiration he drew from his grandfather to adopt management-intensive rotational grazing. He takes us through the learning curve of measuring forage, setting up a daily move system, and developing a forage measurement tool. Mike’s story underscores the importance of hands-on learning and experimentation in improving farm sustainability and efficiency.

We also discuss the intricacies of rotational grazing management, emphasizing the need for accurate calibration and measurement of forage availability and livestock needs. Using tools like spreadsheets and mapping apps, we explore methods for estimating total dry matter in a paddock and determining its support duration for a herd. Mike shares personal anecdotes about managing hayfields, adjusting strategies during drought conditions, and the benefits of underutilizing grass to prevent overgrazing. The conversation highlights the role of technology in optimizing pasture rotations and the unexpected advantages of natural events.

Finally, we delve into the management of grazing and cover crops, examining the long-term impacts of reintroducing animal activity to previously inactive land. Mike shares his experiences with different cover crops and the challenges of integrating them with grazing schedules and weather events. We also touch on the unexpected outcomes of government-mandated tree planting and its implications for agricultural practices. The episode concludes with insights on cattle herd management, emphasizing the importance of both traditional education and modern resources, such as social media and online communities, in mastering regenerative grazing practices. Tune in to discover valuable resources and tools for effective grazing management and to hear practical innovations that can enhance daily farm operations.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Kencove Farm Fence