Transferring Innovative Managed Grazing Skills to Beginning Wisconsin Dairy Producers

The retirement of small and mid-sized dairy farmers and barriers to entry for aspiring farmers is resulting in an increase in large confinement dairy operations. These large dairies can alter local rural economies and rely on a less sustainable corn-based feeding system. Managed dairy grazing is an environmentally positive solution that can provide families with a solid income and lead to stronger rural economies. In managed grazing systems, livestock are rotated through paddocks of high quality grasses and legumes that are allowed to rest and regrow. This cost-effective method works with natural biological systems, relying on perennial forages and the productive capacity of soils. It is not only one of the best predictors of success for start-up farms but it also provides mid-career and retiring farmers with more options for investment and farm transition. This project will use an apprenticeship model to train next-generation farmers in managed grazing.