Simply put, regenerative agriculture is a system of farming principles and practices that focuses on restoring the natural balance of HEALTHY SOILS.
Why are we doing this: To help combat a century of monocrop farming and reliance on chemicals (pesticides + fertilizers) which have damaged fertile soils, ecosystems, the climate and our health.
Food products that are more nutrient and mineral rich (as they naturally should be)
Food and water supply that is free from chemical inputs
A more resilient agricultural system that works with nature not against it (food security)
Promotes eco-system function and biodiversity
Reduces greenhouse gas in the atmosphere by locking it down in the soil = cooling the planet
Understand context: bioregion, climate, economic, community
Don’t disturb the soil: no tillage, chemicals, fertilisers, pesticides
Keep living roots in the soil: more living roots = more carbon stored in the soil
Keep the soil covered: bare soil exposed to the elements harms soil health
Integrate grazing animals: controlled grazing = more fertilization, aeration, increased organic matter
Enhance biodiversity: increase the variety of plant and animal species based on bioregion + climate
In 2019 Dalewood diversified its planting of pasture species. We now have over 14 species in our pastures including a variety of Cocksfoot grasses, six clover species, Vetch (a multi-purpose crop), Serradella (a winter-growing annual pasture legume), lucerne and a selection of wild turnips and radishes.