A Day In The Field: Grazing, Grains & Growth

On October 15, a diverse group of 37 farmers, ranchers, and agricultural enthusiasts gathered for the second field day hosted at Will Groeneveld’s farm near Mannville. The event was designed to showcase how regenerative practices can benefit both land health and livestock productivity.

Organized by Rural Routes to Climate Solutions in partnership with ALUS Canada and supported by Western Economic Development, the day began with a morning of presentations at the Mannville Golf Course. Experts in soil health, livestock integration, and sustainable cropping systems shared their knowledge with attendees.

Dr. Derek McKenzie, a soil scientist from the University of Alberta, offered a deep dive into soil biology and ecosystem processes happening beneath the surface. Chris Elder, ALUS Program Coordinator for Vermilion County, provided practical strategies for managing saline and low-yielding areas in cropland. Lynn Girardin from Beef Smart spoke about the vital links between soil health, polyculture planting, and cattle nutrition. Updates were also shared by the team at the Regenerative Agriculture Lab (RAL), which collaborates with stakeholders across the agri-food system to test and advance regenerative agriculture policies and practices in Alberta.

Following a lunch and networking session at the golf course, participants made their way to Groeneveld’s farm for a hands-on look at regenerative systems in practice. Groeneveld, a grain farmer who collaborates closely with cattle producers, explained how he integrates livestock into his cropping operation and the benefits that come with it.

The afternoon also featured insights from Kevin Elmy, an expert in cover cropping, author, and long-time advocate of regenerative methods. He discussed the role of polycropping in grain rotations, the incorporation of livestock, and strategies for building long-term soil health.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in hands-on learning and open discussions, witnessing firsthand how regenerative agriculture can create more resilient farming systems.