Ten Regen Ag Case Studies

As we deepen our own involvement in Regen practices, I keep coming back to the question of why aren’t these practices more widely adopted? I believe there are two primary reasons: One is a lack of formulaic protocols for implementation. Regenerative Ag is by its nature adaptive. It requires observation, and a deeper understanding of causes and effects; keeping in mind the long-term objectives of healthy land and healthy life.

The second thing that holds producers back is the fear of being a pioneer; starting something that they’ve not seen done by others in their area. A common response is “Well, that might work in (insert different geography or commodity) but it won’t work on my operation”.

Today, I’m highlighting a set of 10 case studies compiled by the Soil Health Academy. They represent a variety of farmers and ranchers, across wide geography, size and enterprise. This is how it’s been done, successfully, with astounding positive results. Each detailed case study documents production details, transition motivations and process, output results in yield, profitability and quality of life impacts. None are a quick read, but worth it if you really want to see how others have done it.

1. Schmitz Dairy, Minnesota: Husband and wife team running a 200 acre grazing-based dairy.

2. Seven Sons, Indiana: Multi-enterprise integrated and value-added 550 acre farm doing direct and distributed sales.

3. Wilson Land and Cattle, Pennsylvania: A first-generation, 224 acre diversified livestock operation.

4. Brandt Farm, Ohio: 736 acres of no-till row and cover crops.

5. Bock Family Farm, North Dakota: 4800 acres of diversified crops.

6. Stoney Creek Farm, Minnesota: 1677 acre row crop and diversified livestock

7. Hemme Dairy and Creamery, Missouri: 1300 acres, dairy, cheese and pork farm

8. Dark Branch Farm, North Carolina: A smaller diversified farm including market garden, cover stop seed enterprise, row crops and livestock maximizing -net profit per acre.

9. Stemple Creek Ranch, California: 6000 acre pastured meat business.

10. Unruh Walnut Farms, California: 193 acre regenerative nut orchard with integrated livestock.