I. Introduction to Regenerative Grazing

This course provides the essential information required to teach and learn key topics in regenerative grazing, both the science behind it and the practical aspects of implementation. Each course module covers an essential topic in regenerative grazing, beginning with fundamental knowledge for new audiences. Lessons cover topics in greater detail, with content for more advanced audiences.

This course is divided into the following modules:

I. Introduction to Regenerative Grazing
II. Environmental Impacts of Agriculture
III. Regenerative Grazing in Context
IV. Healthy Soil
V. Healthy Forage
VI. Healthy Herd
VII. Adaptive Grazing in Practice
VIII. Row Crops, Cover Crops, and Livestock
IX. Infrastructure: Fencing Systems
X. Infrastructure: Water Systems
XI. Business Planning and Financial Management
XII. Grazing Plans

The first three sections of this module present the basic principles, practices, and benefits of regenerative grazing. The final two sections dispel common myths about regenerative grazing and explain how regenerative practices require new ways of thinking, learning, and doing.

This course was made possible by the contributions of regenerative agriculture and grazing experts—known and unknown. These individuals have helped countless farmers and graziers over decades by articulating and sharing their research, observations, and wisdom. The information conveyed here honors these contributions and extends sincere gratitude to those who shared them with the field of practice. The course also acknowledges and appreciates the contributions yet to come from the next generation of regenerative agriculture and grazing experts, which will help the course grow and evolve. The monumental task of gathering, reviewing, organizing, and articulating the information within this course was foremost achieved by Hilary Cornwell, with the assistance of the Wallace Center—specifically those responsible for Wallace’s Pasture Project. Agriculture and grazing experts also generated content for this course, as well as provided review and guidance throughout the course development process. The many hands that contributed to this course are thankfully credited with its creation. Finally, the course would not have been possible without the generous support of the Walton Family Foundation.

Lead Author: Hilary Cornwell

Key Contributing Experts: Allen Williams, PhD (Understanding Ag LLC) and Rod Ofte (Norse Group Consulting)

Expert Reviewers: Jasmine Dillon, PhD (Colorado State University); Kent Solberg (Seven Pines Farm and Fence); Meghan Filbert (Practical Farmers of Iowa); Teresa Steckler, PhD (University of Illinois Extension); Jim Munsch (Munsch Consulting LLC); Jon Winsten (Winrock International); and Brian Pillsbury (formerly USDA NRCS)