It is no secret that there are trends happening in agriculture today. Trending words include: carbon sequestration, sustainable, carbon capture, carbon footprint, regenerative agriculture, etc. All of these terms can be overwhelming to the producer on the land who spends their life caring for their land and livestock.
Agriculture has become a hot topic in today's climate change and carbon capture discussion. Regenerative agriculture has been at the forefront of that 'hot topic' conversation. Regenerative agriculture is aimed at restoring soils back to health, which in returns captures more carbon from the atmosphere. By completing regenerative agricultural practices producers work together with nature instead of against it. Practices like prescribed grazing, no-till planting, limited use of pesticides and fertilizer are all parts of regenerative agriculture.
Although regenerative agriculture is not new, the term 'regenerative' has more recently been the term named for describing practices that have been taking place for centuries. Closely mimicking nature is the goal of those incorporating regenerative practices into their operations. Producers must take into account their ever-changing climate, resources, skills and goals in order to apply the practices that make the best sense for his or her own operation. Although there are many variables, the basic principles of nature are always relevant and finding ways to to apply them differently that makes sense for each individual operation is important.
Regenerative agriculture promotes the increase of soil organic matter and biodiversity of microbes that each play their own important role. Soil that is improved with regenerative practices are more drought and flood resistant. Healthy soil is able to absorb more rainfall during drought times and is less effected by runoff during wet times.
Regenerative agriculture practices also push for the decrease of chemical inputs, subsequently creating cleaner water and air. Healthy soil acts as a 'filter' when fully covered by plants and plant residues. The abundance of plants that are present in healthy soil act as 'air filters'. The healthier the soil, then the healthier the plants are, in turn creating healthier water and air.
Diversity is inherent in nature as each species of wildlife can enhance the life of another. The movement away from monocultures that is encouraged in regenerative agriculture can increase the amount and variety of species of wildlife seen on an operation.
Livestock and animal agriculture has taken a hit in mainstream media. However, livestock play a vital role in carbon sequestration and fighting climate variability. The U.S. has over 655 million acres of land that is used for grazing and this use can actually revitalize the land's health. By practicing rotational grazing soil health is improved. By moving livestock frequently through different pastures the exposure of the soil directly to the air is decreased, which then decreases the release of carbon by the soil. The livestock hooves aerate the soil and the manure they spread around the different pasture sites which helps return nutrients directly to the soil.
The quick rotation of livestock from one pasture to another allows the plants to regrow in between grazing and establish deeper root systems. The deeper root systems then help the soil retain more water, protect from wind erosion, and help provide habitat for wildlife.
If you have any questions regarding regenerative agriculture practices, or what more information on cost-share options for these practices, contact your local NRCS office today.
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