Location: Dairy Forage Research
Project Number: 5090-21500-002-024-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Aug 1, 2022
End Date: Sep 30, 2026
Objective:
The ARS PI and the Cooperator will work collaboratively to:
Objective 1. Bring together not only farmers and ranchers from across North Dakota and the region, but also ag lenders, government agencies, universities, extension, and nonprofits interested in sustainable agriculture and conservation of the state’s natural resources.
Objective 2: Build bridges between animal agriculture, grassland resources and the public’s knowledge of conservation in North Dakota. By focusing on the critical importance of our grasslands it is hoped the public will take a more active role in their conservation.
Objective 3: Establish an agroforestry plantation on Black Leg Ranch with NDGLC mentor Jerry Doan and regionally leading agroforestry group Savanna Institute.
Approach:
The Cooperator will address the objectives outlined above by:
NDGLC has found leading by example to be the most effective change strategy, and the NDGLC Grazing Education Program will continue to bring people together to learn from farmers and ranchers who have successfully implemented these practices. Experienced holistic ranch managers, acting as mentors, share their knowledge and expertise with attendees, not only imparting information but also building long-term relationships and transferring knowledge to the next generation of farm and ranch families who are committed to protecting the land while also running a profitable business that supports them and their communities. The mentorship program is NDGLC’s cornerstone program, which is strengthened by in-person networking and educational events.
Participants are invited to complete an evaluation (paper or online) regarding the overall event, as well as individual speakers and networking opportunities.
NDGLC staff will coordinate the grazing education program by 1) meeting with local partners to select topics and speakers and develop marketing strategies; 2) working with partners and vendors to implement programs; and 3) analyzing attendance and evaluations and reporting outcomes to NDGLC mentors and partners.
Savanna Institute will donate technical assistance to plan and support Jerry Doan in implementing the agroforestry plantation on Black Leg Ranch. SHARE funding will be used for planting, maintenance, watering, and plant protection costs.