About Doc's
Our commitment to the future.
Simply put, Doc’s Green Earth is about a better way to farm and ranch. By “better” we mean more sustainable, healthier, and more humane.
We are committed to following regenerative practices. In doing so, we actively rotate our 100 cows on paddocks between 5 and 10 acres, filled with diverse forage of perennial grasses and cover crops. We don’t use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, avoid the use of plows or discs, and let our pastures rest as long as feasible in between grazings. Combined, these practices promote life within the soil and eliminate the effects of harmful chemicals.
Our ranch has been in the family for over 100 years and has been used for cattle the last 45. That said, we don’t criticize the “conventional” way of farming and ranching; we were managing our herd in that fashion far longer than we have been regenerative. We have, however, learned over time that things must change.
Our goal is to help promote regenerative practices by selling cattle that will easily integrate into a rotational grazing program, small or large. And we will consult with those who purchase our cattle as a starter herd to help ensure a successful rotational grazing program.
How we're different.
Conventional cattle ranching primarily involves feeding cattle a diet of grains like corn and soy, often supplemented with by-products or processed feeds, with many cattle being raised in confined feedlots to be fattened quickly for market. This method often leads to continuous grazing on the same pastures, causing overgrazing, soil degradation, and reduced biodiversity. It also commonly uses synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and antibiotics, contributing to soil erosion, water contamination, and higher greenhouse gas emissions.
In contrast, regenerative and organic cattle ranching prioritize a grass-fed diet, with organic practices ensuring all feed is organically grown, avoiding synthetic feeds and GMOs. These methods employ rotational grazing to prevent overgrazing and promote soil health, plant diversity, and water retention. Synthetic chemicals are minimized or eliminated, using natural alternatives and holistic management to maintain cattle health and land quality. Regenerative practices aim to restore and enhance ecosystems, improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and sequester carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. These practices result in healthier animals, produce beef higher in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, and contribute to long-term land sustainability, prioritizing the health of the animals, the land, and the environment.
Where we're going
While we currently offer cattle for sale to farms of all sizes who are operating in a similarly sustainable fashion, we are working on expanding our operating ecosystem to include growing trees, drought tolerant plants, and vegetables.