The rotations help disrupt the life cycles of pests and weeds, making it difficult for them to establish. Cattle cycle through his fields, further displacing potential weed infestations. Finally, his cover crops, along with his discontinued use of pesticides, help attract beneficial insects that further reduce the risk of pest outbreaks. The farm does not run on autopilot, however. Bender s cattle follow a rotational grazing pattern that calls for intensive management as well as good strong fences, and lots of them.
Fences require maintenance, but the work pays off.
Livestock is the linchpin that makes everything else fall into place on my farm, he says. I can t imagine a large organic operation without animals. In addition to their foraging though harvested fields, his cattle reduce the need to mow his grassed waterways. They also serve as an economic buffer. In lean times, Bender can sell more beef than normal.