175. Adapting Grazing and Breeding to Harsh Environments with Doug Badcock

In this episode, we head to Zambia to talk with Doug Badcock of Green Lid Enterprises. Doug shares his journey from managing a diverse crop and livestock farm to developing a passion for grazing and livestock management. Situated just miles from the Congo border, Doug discusses the realities of ranching in Zambia’s unique environment—from tropical grasses and fires to high-density grazing and breeding Boran and Angoni cattle. His openness about trial, error, and continual improvement makes this a valuable conversation for graziers everywhere.

Topics Covered:

• Transitioning from conventional to regenerative grazing
• Grazing livestock near the Congo border
• Using electric fencing in remote areas
• Managing forage through fire and seasonal rainfall
• Adjusting calving and breeding seasons
• Adapting cattle breed selection to local conditions
• High-density grazing: when it works and when it hurts
• Forage management with bananas and corn stalks
• Differences between Boran, Sussex, Angoni, and other African breeds
• Using line breeding and natural selection in herd development

Doug Badcock brings a unique perspective to the Grazing Grass Podcast from his farm in Zambia. His willingness to share both successes and challenges—from learning to manage tropical forage to selecting the right breeds for his environment—makes this episode a global look at regenerative grazing principles. Whether you farm in Oklahoma or Africa, you’ll find inspiration and insight in Doug’s honest storytelling and deep curiosity for continual improvement.

Resources Mentioned:
Green Lid Enterprises Facebook & YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@green_lid_enterprises?si=elTGbGeGCylwOuSN
https://www.facebook.com/share/192BW7WRNN/
https://www.instagram.com/green_lid_enterprises?igsh=b2V5OHAwMmk0eG1o
Johan Zietsman's book Man, Cattle and Veld
Calvin Birioti's YouTube video featuring Doug’s farm

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey