Grazing Grass Podcast | Rotational Grazing, Soil Health & Profitable Livestock Farming 168. Harnessing Nature's Balance for Better Beef with Jason Schoenfelder
Jason Schoenfelder, a passionate advocate for sustainable cattle farming, is our featured guest. Raised on the sun-soaked ranches of Southeast Arizona, Jason's journey took him to the verdant pastures of Northeast Oregon, where he has embraced innovative, pasture-based cattle finishing operations. Influenced by the revolutionary ideas of Allen Savory, Jason is dedicated to enhancing rangeland health and crafting economically sustainable models in the cattle industry. His commitment to high animal welfare standards and innovative grazing techniques makes him a beacon of responsible and eco-friendly ranching.
Topics covered in this episode:
- Jason's upbringing and introduction to rotational grazing in Southeast Arizona
- Transition to pasture-based cattle finishing in Northeast Oregon
- The influence of Allen Savory and holistic management practices
- Challenges and successes in the cattle industry
- Implementation of regenerative agriculture through the Grazewell program
- Pasture management techniques, including strategic crop rotations
- Insights into maintaining soil health and resource management, especially water
- Importance of retaining ownership in cattle breeding for profitability
- Consumer demand for high-quality, sustainably produced beef
- Cooperative models like Country Natural Beef and their impact on sustainable practices
Listeners should tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of sustainable cattle farming practices and the challenges and rewards of pasture-based operations. Jason Schoenfelder's journey offers valuable insights into the intricate balance required in resource management and innovative approaches to cattle feeding. Whether you are a seasoned rancher or an aspiring one, this episode provides practical guidance and inspiration for producing quality beef responsibly. By exploring themes of ecological balance and sustainability, Jason's story encourages listeners to embrace forward-thinking practices that benefit both the land and the beef industry.
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Chapters
- (00:00) - Introduction and Fast Five with Jason Schoenfelder
- (01:28) - Jason's Background and Grazing Journey
- (02:34) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast
- (03:09) - Noble Research Institute Courses
- (04:11) - Cal's Grazing Update
- (05:28) - Join the Grazing Grass Community
- (05:58) - Jason's Early Career and Experiences
- (13:23) - Transition to Beef Northwest Feeders
- (16:10) - Understanding GAP Standards
- (23:02) - Pasture Finishing Program Details
- (29:48) - Country Natural Beef Cooperative
- (35:38) - Ownership and Financial Ramifications for Ranchers
- (36:53) - Grading and Market Value of Cattle
- (40:38) - Introduction to Grazewell Program
- (44:27) - Grazewell Program Details and Implementation
- (49:41) - Country Natural Beef and Market Reach
- (50:44) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Ranchers
- (53:42) - Famous Four Questions
- (01:02:41) - Podcast Goals and Listener Engagement
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Upcoming Grazing Events
- Regenerative Agriculture Deep Dive: 3 Day Holistic Managment - Kamas, UT, April 22-24, 2026. https://3springsutah.com
- Noble Land Essentials - Ardmore, OK, May 12-13, 2026. https://noble.org
Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon
Apr 22-24 3 Springs Utah
Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)
Original Music by Louis Palfrey