We are breeding our cattle purposefully from the outset. We want to breed animals that can do well (fatten well) on just grass the whole year around. This is less simple than it sounds, as many cattle have been bred for big frames that need supplementary feeding. For a comprehensive commentary on the problems with the mainstream breeding, see the Pharo Cattle Company Blog.

Our cattle will be grass fed all the way, and once we’re able to keep the wallabies out we’ll not be bringing in hay and silage.

Perennial grasses are more nutritious, provide more stable feed over the year, and put more carbon in the ground. At this stage the only perennial grass on the property is in the veggie garden which is protected by an electrified chicken net.

Grazing in a manner that increases the proportion of perennial grasses and increases the beneficial microbial activity in the soil also captures carbon. This is achieved essentially by allowing some grass leaves to die off and begin composting at the soil surface. Simple in theory, rather more complex in practice. For more info on the theory, science and practical matters, please visit the resources page of the Regenerative Agriculture Network Tasmania (RANT).