This is a story of the importance of private lands for providing clean water and wildlife habitat, and how the changes this ranch made enhanced habitat and increased water availability and made their livestock more productive and profitable. Thanks to Robert Hathorne of the NRCS for sharing this story. I've added ways to apply the principles this ranch uses to help you translate this to your operation, and information on how to pay for the improvements.
Thanks to Nick Schell, a wildlife biologist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service for sharing this article with us. I added the section...
It's always nice to get a little inspiration from other folks when it comes to creatively housing poultry. Even if you don't have a trailer, this could give you some good ideas for repurposing something you already own at little to no cost.
This is the story of a dairy farmer's transition to pasture. It's an excellent example how long it takes, and the challenges along the way. It's also a great example for all graziers, no matter your livestock, of how helpful it can be to work with an Extension Agent, or someone from a local Natural Resource Conservation Service or Conservation District office. We should all be so lucky to have free help at our fingertips!
With growing concerns over riparian management and its effect on water quality, farmers and ranchers are facing tightening regulations and restrictions on grazing next...