Open to: All – BCIA Registrants and Public Welcome! (A BCIA account is required to register)
This event is supported by the BC Climate Agri-Solutions Fund (BCCAF). Funding for the BCCAF has been provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Agricultural Climate Solutions – On-Farm Climate Action Fund. BCCAF is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation. To learn more, visit www.bccaf.ca
Join us for an in-depth workshop on rotational grazing systems, designed to enhance your understanding of sustainable grazing practices. Led by experts Andrew Kenny, AAg, and Léo Maltais, B.Sc., P.Ag., this event will cover the essential components of rotational grazing, from system design to economic planning, offering actionable insights for maximizing both environmental and financial benefits on your farm.
What You’ll Learn:
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Introduction to Grazing Systems
Start with a comprehensive overview of various grazing systems, exploring their importance and benefits in promoting sustainable agriculture. Learn how different grazing methods can influence land management, productivity, and long-term sustainability, setting the foundation for advanced grazing techniques. -
Types of Rotational Grazing
Delve into the different types of rotational grazing, including intensive rotational grazing, strip grazing, and mob grazing. Discover how these methods vary in terms of livestock movement, pasture utilization, and overall management. Through comparisons, you'll gain insights into which system might best suit your operational goals based on land size, livestock type, and environmental conditions. -
Pros and Cons of Grazing Methods
Every grazing system has its strengths and challenges. In this session, you’ll examine the advantages and disadvantages of each method, including how they impact the environment and economic outcomes. Gain a nuanced understanding of how to balance productivity and sustainability, ensuring that your grazing practices align with your broader agricultural or environmental goals. -
Financial Planning for Rotational Grazing
Financial sustainability is key to successful farm management. This module will focus on cost analysis, budgeting, and financial forecasting for rotational grazing. Learn how to plan for initial investments, operational costs, and long-term economic benefits. You’ll leave with strategies for maximizing financial returns while maintaining environmental stewardship. -
Added Values of Rotational Grazing
Explore the ecological and operational benefits of rotational grazing beyond just economic gains. Discover how this method improves soil health by promoting nutrient cycling, reduces erosion, enhances biodiversity, and boosts livestock health and productivity. You’ll also learn how rotational grazing supports regenerative agriculture practices, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable farming system. -
Livestock on Grazing Platforms
Rotational grazing isn't a one-size-fits-all approach—it's important to consider the needs of different livestock species. This section covers practical tips on managing cattle, sheep, goats, and other livestock within a grazing system. You’ll also learn how to design and implement grazing platforms suited to your specific livestock, including how to monitor, adjust, and improve grazing practices for optimal results.
This workshop is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully implement rotational grazing, enhance land use efficiency, and ensure both environmental and economic sustainability. Whether you're new to rotational grazing or looking to refine your techniques, this event provides practical, research-backed insights tailored to your farm’s needs.
Meet the Presenters:
Andrew Kenny, AAg, is a Master’s graduate in Environmental Resource Management from University College Dublin with extensive experience in agriculture and environmental sectors. He has expertise in soil and water sampling, environmental impact assessments, and sustainability, with proficiency in SPSS and GIS. Growing up on a farm, Andrew developed a strong appreciation for sustainable land management, which he applied in roles such as Environmental Materials Lead and Environmental Sustainability Specialist. He has managed reclamation projects, created sustainability policies, and overseen farming operations focused on regenerative practices. Andrew is passionate about environmental stewardship and aims to contribute to sustainable solutions in both public and private sectors.
Léo Maltais, B.Sc., P.Ag., is an experienced environmental consultant with expertise in conducting Stage 1 and 2 Preliminary and Detailed Site Investigations, developing Remedial Action Plans, and managing remediation projects. He has over 15 years of experience working in environmental consulting, starting with oil field reclamation in Alberta and progressing to project management roles in British Columbia. Léo has extensive knowledge of provincial and federal regulations, including work with the BC Ministry of Environment. His career highlights include managing complex contaminated sites projects for both government and private clients, overseeing soil, groundwater, and soil-vapour investigations, and coordinating teams and budgets for large-scale remediation efforts.
Who Should Attend: Farmers, land managers, environmental professionals, and anyone interested in learning about sustainable grazing systems.
Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of rotational grazing and its benefits for both your land and livestock! Register today.
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