Holistic Management Is Making A Difference At Sunshine Farm

After 10 years of Holistic Management Planned Grazing our land is actually showing up as being greener and more vibrant than surrounding lands.  This photo is from late July 2009 Notice that where the pasture has just been grazed, the color is more tan/yellow. This indicates that the soil surface is covered with residue after grazing.  Residue helps to protect the soil, holds moisture in and helps build soil fertility. Where as surrounding farm fields show pinkish/brown which indicates bare soil is showing between plants.  Exposed soil surface dries out faster, promotes weeds, increases runoff, and decreases fertility.

We have increased productivity from a low of 2 tons per acre to 3.5 or more. This pasture has not been plowed or reseeded in at least 30 years!  We have done this by carefully managing our grazing so the animals are in the right place, at the right time, for the right reason.  We do not allow them to over-graze a single plant if we can help it.  We give our pastures ample time for recovery and use our animals as tools to build more soil and soil fertility. Decisions we make concerning our land are tested to determine if they are socially, economically and environmentally sound.  We make improvements to our infrastructure when it make sense economically and labor wise.

 

We generate real wealth by converting solar energy into healthy food products.  Using Holistic Management, we aim to create healthy land, healthy animals and healthy people. This contributes to building a strong vibrant community and economy that is sustainable.

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