Getting Started On Your Regenerative Journey
Summary:
Helen and Hugo welcome Jim and Sharon Kennedy, new members of the Farming Secrets team. They shared their background in regenerative farming and their plans to implement the Farming Secrets teachings on their newly acquired farm. Following photos of their farm the discussion covered various topics such as the importance of ground cover, soil carbon levels, plant biodiversity, and the use of vermicomposting and vermicast.
Points of Discussion:
Jim, a golf professional turned farmer, shared his journey towards regenerative agriculture, highlighting the importance of a good mentor and coach. He expressed his appreciation for Helen and Hugo’s wisdom and experience in coaching farmers.
Helen then shared the success story of Ian and Diane Haggerty, who have just won the award for the best farmers in Western Australia Farming Secrets filmed them early in their quest to share successful stories of farmers farming without chemicals. Ian and Di have continued to focus on chemical-free, nutrient-dense food and are succeeding in extremely challenging weather conditions.
Helen introducing the 10 must-do’s for regenerative farming, which Jim likened to laying the foundations for both farm profitability and sustainability.
He emphasized their focus on creating a biological, friendly fertilizer factory on the farm, using vermicompost and vermicast. Helen emphasized the importance of vermicomposting and the role of worms in breaking down organic matter.
A discussion on the importance of awareness about the quality of food and its impact on human health. followed They agreed that there needs to be a shift towards healthier, chemical-free food production and consumption.
Julie, a teacher shared her experience of reading a book about mycorrhizal fungi to year 1 and year 2 students, which introduced them to the concept of the “Wood Wide Web”. The group concluded by discussing the potential for donating books to schools to help spread awareness about healthier food production.
Sustainable Farming Practices and Vision
Jim shared his experiences with organic farming and the importance of focusing on the essential aspects of farming and to reverse away from unsustainable methods. He also mentioned their vision for a sustainable and regenerative farm, and how they live off the grid. He then shared his slides to provide more insight into his farming practices.
African Love Grass Mulching Benefits
Jim discussed the benefits of slashing African love grass to create a nutrient-rich mulch layer for the soil, which aids in feeding microorganisms. He mentioned the method was learned from a mentor, Bruce Davison, and is being implemented on his farm. Hugo shared a similar story from a Queensland farmer who successfully used this method to maintain his stock during a drought period. Both Jim and Helen emphasized the importance of focusing on one paddock at a time to avoid overworking themselves. They also noted the challenges of dealing with serrated tussock, which can kill surrounding grass but is difficult to eradicate completely.
Soil Testing and Management Strategies
Jim discussed his plans to conduct further tests on his farm, using biological fertilizers and sprays to observe their effects. He also mentioned his use of an earth stake as a makeshift penetrometer to measure soil moisture and compaction. Hugo shared her experience of creating a similar tool, a 3/8th rod with a handle, which she found effective in measuring soil compaction. Both emphasized the importance of observation and data collection in understanding soil conditions and farm management. They also mentioned their intention to follow Bruce Davison’s model of success.
Jim’s Farm and Soil Health Practices
Jim discussed the state of his farm, mentioning the presence of cattle and the use of organic methods for drenching them. He noted the presence of dung beetles in the cow pats on his property, which he attributed to the absence of chemical drenching. Jim also mentioned the practice of set stocking by his neighbor, which he believes is detrimental to the soil health. He expressed his intention to continue improving soil health through methods like mulching and vermicompost teas.
Cattle Management and Soil Health
Jim discussed his cattle management practices, emphasizing the use of low-stress stock handling methods and the importance of maintaining a healthy soil food web without using chemicals. He explained how he moves the cattle from one paddock to another, using electric fences to create openings. Jim also mentioned the use of cattle to create small cells for soil disturbance, which aids in reseeding the paddocks. He noted that their focus is on improving soil health, with perennial grasses expected to grow as a result.
Free Choice Minerals for Health
Jim and Helen discussed the benefits of using free choice minerals for animal health. Helen explained that when animals are given a variety of minerals, they intuitively select the ones they need, which can improve pasture health and reduce the need for fertilizers. She also mentioned that this method is cost-effective and has been around for decades, but is not widely known. Jim shared his experience of trying to purchase free choice minerals at a rural store, where the staff was unfamiliar with the concept. The discussion ended with the realization that more farmers should be adopting this method for their animals’ health and the environment’s benefit.
Farming Secrets Website Success and Growth
They highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and resources on soil health, animal health, biodynamics, and composting. To celebrate their 20th anniversary, they offered a SUPER special deal on their library of resources, which normally costs thousands of dollars. *To find out more email info@farmingsecrets.com with subject 20 year special
