During the summer of 1998 we received a grant to experiment with herd effect through grazing at very high stock densities. We used electric fencing to maintain stock density at a rate of no less than 30 pairs per acre, and at times above 300 pairs per acre. There was remarkably even utilization of forage, universally good litter coverage of the soil, and almost no trailing. Using herd effect as a tool, we are improving the effectiveness of the water and mineral cycles, while optimizing the solar energy flow through plants to animal and human communities. Joe has realized an economic gain by moving to a spring calving season, based on the pattern observed in nature in which deer fawn in the spring.
Net profits show even better results.
Meanwhile, revenues are up, with more valuable cull cows, more calves through spring breeding, and premium prices fetched for grass-fed beef. Yet, regulations have made this next to impossible. There's a market. People want grass-fed beef that tastes great and is better for you. By requiring a federally inspected processing plant however, regulators and the big corporate interests have made direct marketing beef to your neighbor difficult or even illegal.