The Acres U.S.A. Podcast

Welcome to “The Acres U.S.A. Podcast,” where we dive deep into the world of production-scale organic and regenerative farming. For over 50 years, Acres U.S.A.® has been the go-to resource for farmers, ranchers, and market gardeners, guiding them to grow food profitably and sustainably, all while honoring the rhythms of nature. Join our host, Taylor Henry, owner, and CEO, as he brings you weekly insights, interviews, and practical tips to cultivate a healthier, more resilient food system. Tune in and let’s grow together!

Latest Episodes:

Charles Walters- The Real Objective of Food Production Ep. 35 Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. podcast, we have a throwback from the early 2000s Eco-Ag Conference. Fred Walters introduces his father, Charles Walters, the founder of Acres U.S.A.. Charles shares his extensive insights on the state of ecological agriculture in the early 2000s, reflections on the growth and impact of organic and regenerative farming, and anecdotes from his personal experiences. He discusses the challenges faced by the farming community, the importance of consumer-driven demand for organic/regeneratively grown products, and the critical role of sustainable practices in improving both agriculture and public health. The episode also highlights the historical and ongoing impact of Acres U.S.A. in promoting productive and eco-friendly farming techniques.

Charles was ahead of his time with many things he talked about. Our mission now with Acres U.S.A. is to continue to be the leading media company in this industry, while creating an arena for this information to be shared and talked about openly, and engage everyone who cares to listen!

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Regenerative Practices in Agriculture: Steve Diver's Guide to Biofertilizers Ep.34 Dec 09, 2024

Show notes

Join host Taylor Henry, Owner of Acres U.S.A., as he engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Steve Diver, an expert with 40 years of experience in horticulture, farm management, and soil consultancy. Steve elaborates on the importance of biofertilizers and shares practical insights into their integration into farming practices. Highlights include discussions on regenerative farming practices, the significance of cover crops, microbial inoculants, and innovative biofertilizer recipes.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

From Classroom to Farm: Matt Powers' Journey in Regeneration Ep. 33 Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Acres USA podcast, host Taylor Henry sits down with Matt Powers, a prominent figure in the Eco Agriculture community. Powers discusses his recent event on soil science, his extensive work in regenerative agriculture, and his revolutionary new book on regenerative soil microscopy. He also delves into his educational background, highlighting his transition from teaching high school to becoming a leading advocate for sustainable farming. Powers shares insights on the importance of live soil testing, the benefits of mycorrhizal fungi, and the future of DNA testing in agriculture. Additionally, he expresses his excitement for the upcoming Acres USA EcoAg conference and the opportunity to meet fellow regenerative agriculture experts. Join us for a deep dive into the innovative practices shaping the future of eco-agriculture.

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Matt’s Website: https://www.thepermaculturestudent.com/

Matt’s Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Jg0zsgjNxjltlFjE0YvNw

“Regenerative Soil” : https://bookstore.acresusa.com/products/regenerative-soil?_pos=1&_sid=ad82cc05b&_ss=r

Jay Fuhrer: Building a Future with Conservation Ep. 32 Nov 28, 2024

Show notes

Join Taylor Henry, owner and CEO of Acres USA, in this insightful episode of the Acres USA podcast. Taylor sits down with Jay Fuhrer, a veteran with over 40 years of conservation work through the NRCS. Jay shares his incredible journey, from his humble beginnings on a mixed farming operation in the Northern Plains to managing Menoken Farm, a conservation demonstration farm. Learn about Jay's commitment to promoting soil health principles, his innovative practices in sustainable and regenerative farming, and his family's farming legacy. This episode dives deep into soil conservation, innovative agricultural techniques, the historical context of farming in the Northern Plains, and the importance of plant diversity, cover crops, and livestock management in modern eco-agriculture. Don't miss this enriching conversation! This podcast is brought to you by OCIA and the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).

🔗 Learn more and apply:

OCIA Topp Program Details - https://ocia.org/plains-topp/

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Menoken Farm: https://menokenfarm.com/

Silvopasture Innovations and Tree Integration with Austin Unruh Ep. 31 Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

Join Taylor Henry, the host of the Acres USA Podcast, as he delves into the world of sustainable and regenerative agriculture with Austin Unruh from Trees for Grazers. In this episode, Austin shares insights from his book 'Trees for Grazers', discussing innovative methods to integrate tree planting within grazing systems to improve livestock management and farm productivity. Learn about the use of tree shelters, electric fencing, and the selection of tree species for optimal shade, fodder, and feed production. Austin also touches upon his background, the challenges faced, and the cost-sharing programs available to farmers interested in silvopasture. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on making pastures more productive and resilient while restoring the ecosystem.

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

“The Grazier’s Guide to Trees”: https://bookstore.acresusa.com/products/the-grazier-s-guide-to-trees?_pos=1&_sid=b21d0649b&_ss=r

Trees for Graziers: https://treesforgraziers.com/

Navigating the Business of Farming: A Conversation with Jordan Green Ep. 30 Nov 21, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the Acres USA Podcast, hosted by Taylor Henry, owner and CEO of Acres USA. In this episode, Taylor talks with Jordan Green, co-founder of FarmBuilder, about his journey in sustainable farming, particularly pasture livestock farming and regenerative agriculture. Jordan shares his experiences managing seasonal poultry production, strategies for maintaining cash flow, and the benefits of leasing farm land. They discuss the advantages of raising hogs in forests, sourcing feed, and the unique practices that have contributed to Jordan's success. Additionally, the conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of scaling farming operations, the importance of relational marketing, and the potential benefits of agricultural policy changes. Tune in to gain valuable insights into sustainable farming practices and the future of eco-agriculture.

Jordan will be hosting a workshop at our 2024 Eco-Ag Conference in Madison, WI December 2-5. Jordan will be presenting on pastured pigs, how to get started, how to build a scalable farm business from it.

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Jordan’s FarmBuilder Website: https://farmbuilder.us/

Building a Better Farm: Insights from Will Harris at White Oak Pastures Ep. 29 Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Acres USA Podcast, host Taylor Henry interviews Will Harris, the fourth-generation farmer and owner of White Oak Pastures. Will shares his journey from industrial cattle farming to adopting regenerative practices, including the challenges and successes along the way. They discuss ongoing projects such as constructing a new freezer unit, remodeling the poultry plant, and installing a large solar voltaic array.

Will also talks about the complexities of running a multi-species farm, the impact of regulatory requirements, and his views on the future of regenerative farming. Tune in to learn from Will's extensive experience and get insights into sustainable agriculture.

Will Harris will be presenting at Acres U.S.A. Eco-Ag Conference again this year! You will not want to miss his awesome storytelling and experiences from many years of experience in the regenerative farming realm!

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

“A Bold Return to Giving a Damn” : https://bookstore.acresusa.com/products/a-bold-return-to-giving-a-damn?_pos=2&_sid=84c21d9f4&_ss=r

White Oak Pastures: https://whiteoakpastures.com/

John Kempf - Does Your Technology Help or Hurt Your Efforts to Regenerate Your Farm? Ep. 28 Nov 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the Acres USA Podcast! In this special webinar episode, hosted by Paul Meyer, we delve into sustainable farming, regenerative practices, and technological innovations in eco-agriculture. Our special guest, John Kempf, founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA) and executive editor of Acres USA magazine, shares his insights on adopting new agricultural technologies and the philosophical thoughts behind them. We explore the role of technology in agriculture, especially during the COVID era, and discuss the importance of in-person interactions at events and conferences. John also covers topics such as plant health, the use of artificial intelligence in agronomy, and the development of technology that supports regenerative agriculture. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!

John Kempf will be an Eco-Ag presenter at our 49th Annual Eco-Ag Conference on December 2-5 in Madison, WI. He brings many years of experience within the Regenerative/Sustainable Agriculture realm. You will not want to miss this once in a lifetime experience!

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

John Kempf’s Website: https://johnkempf.com/

Advancing Eco Agriculture Website: https://advancingecoag.com

John’s Podcast “Regenerative Agriculture Podcast”: https://regenerativeagriculturepodcast.com/

Earthly Wisdom: Nigel Palmer's Guide to Regenerative Growing Ep. 27 Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

Join Taylor Henry, host and CEO of Acres USA, as he converses with Nigel Palmer, author of 'The Regenerative Grower's Guide to Garden Amendments.' In this insightful episode, they delve into Nigel's approach to sustainable and regenerative gardening practices. From the current projects in his southern New England garden to his journey in organic farming, Nigel shares valuable knowledge about garden amendments, soil health, and the impact of regenerative practices. Discover the importance of minerals, biological amendments, and organic matter, along with practical steps for fermenting plant juices and creating nutrient-rich compost. Tune in to learn how simple, nature-aligned practices can transform agricultural systems and promote ecological balance.

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Link to “The Regenerative Grower's Guide to Garden Amendments” in our Online Bookstore: https://bookstore.acresusa.com/products/the-regenerative-growers-guide-to-garden-amendments?_pos=1&_sid=6a00ffa77&_ss=r

Nigel’s Website: https://www.nigel-palmer.com/

Harvesting Success: Megan Neubauer on Agritourism and “Pick-Your-Own” Farming Ep. 26 Oct 28, 2024

Show notes

Join host Taylor Henry on the Acres USA podcast as he engages with Megan Neubauer, co-owner of Pure Land Farm in McKinney, Texas. Discover how Megan transitioned from a biology and science background to a successful 'pick-your-own' agritourism model, addressing challenges like severe weather and urbanization. Learn practical strategies for running a thriving farm close to a heavy populated city, utilizing innovative organic marketing and community engagement. Megan shares detailed tips on farm operations, soil health, and sustainable practices, along with her vision for nationwide agritourism and developing an online course for farmers. Gain insights from her book, “Pick Your Own Farming”, and understand how agritourism can boost profitability and connect the public to agriculture.

Megan will be a presenter at the Acres U.S.A. Eco-Ag Conference on December 2-5 in Madison, WI. She will be presenting on the topic of starting up your own “Pick you own” farming model, while discussing trials and tribulations that she and her team have encountered along their journey. She brings a hands-on approach and experience to this niche type of farming.

Other Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Link to “Pick-Your-Own Farming” in our Online Bookstore:

https://bookstore.acresusa.com/products/pick-your-own-farming?_pos=1&_sid=348eee29a&_ss=r

Link to the Pure Land Farm Page:

https://purelandorganic.com/