In the summer of 2023, a diverse group of storytellers, organizers, and strategists visited 10 farms and ranches in Canada. These farms and ranches were carefully chosen to represent different aspects of Canadian agriculture, including fruit, grains, beef, veggies, and even a vineyard. The purpose of this project, which included videos, articles, and a podcast series, was not solely focused on what these farms produced, but rather how they produced it. These farmers and ranchers were passionate about not only producing high-quality, nutrient-rich food, but also about fostering community connections, caring for the land, contributing to ecosystem stewardship, and addressing global issues like climate change. And to top it off, some of these farmers were even enjoying the process.

Welcome to Stories of Regeneration, a podcast series brought to you by Rural Routes to Climate Solutions and Regeneration Canada. Join me, your host Derek Leahy, as we delve into the importance of supporting an agricultural system that not only prioritizes the health of our land and ecosystems but also ensures the sustainability of our farmers and ranchers. Get ready to explore the transformative power of regenerative agriculture.

Highlights:

• 3:16 – Ryan Boyd introduces himself and his ranching operation, South Glanton Farms, located in Manitoba, Canada.
• 8:11 – What annual crops are grown on South Glanton Farms?
• 9:29 – Boyd tells us more about his cattle operation.
• 11:11 – What were some of the challenges South Glanton Farms faced during this year’s growing season?
• 12:55 – Derek walks us through some of the terminology that Ryan referenced earlier in the episode.
• 14:30 – Ryan tells us how and when his farm’s regenerative agriculture journey began. 
• 25:30 – What is ‘total grazing’?
• 30:58 – Is there a difference between grazing and total grazing?
• 34:09 – How are Ryan’s paddocks spaced out and fenced?
• 37:30 – What is an electronic fence lifter?
• 42:24 – What are some of the benefits of total grazing?
• 46:50 – How does total grazing mimic the historic grazing patterns of bison?
• 47:53 – Has Ryan noticed a difference in the eating experience since he switched to total grazing?
• 49:50 – Low stress livestock management is something Ryan takes pretty seriously. 
• 51:23 – Ryan talks about the importance of genetics when it comes to low stress livestock management and total grazing.
• 57:35 – If regenerative agriculture is so great, why aren’t more producers across Canada using the principles and practices?
• 1:02:12 – Why did Ryan decide to implement regenerative agriculture practices?

Useful links:

• Stories of Regeneration
• Stories of Regeneration Short Film Series
• Gabe Brown – Soil Health Academy
• Kiss The Ground
• Nuffield Canada Agricultural Scholarships
• Real Wealth Ranching | Jim Elizondo
• Nourishment: What Animals Can Teach Us about Rediscovering Our Nutritional Wisdom by Fred Provenza

Want to learn more?

If you want to learn more, we recommend downloading and listening to:

• EP 51 – Cover Crops
• EP 34 – Intercropping

Our Farmers Blog shares stories about Alberta farmers who do an exceptional job of caring for the land, producing food, and building up their communities.

This podcast has been partially funded by  Agriculture and Agri-food Canada