Loyal to the Soil with farmers Tannis and Derek

During the growing season of 2023, Rural Routes to Climate Solutions teamed up with Regeneration Canada to connect with agricultural producers across Canada who are tackling the pressing social and environmental crises through the adoption of regenerative agriculture. 

One such farm is Axten Farms, situated in Minton, Saskatchewan. With a steadfast commitment to growing healthy grains, Axten Farms takes a regenerative approach focused on enhancing their land’s soil biodiversity, creating a thriving environment for food production. Their unwavering dedication is captured in their motto, “Loyal to the Soil.”

Welcome to Stories of Regeneration, a podcast series brought to you by Rural Routes to Climate Solutions and Regeneration Canada. Join me, your host Derek Leahy, as we delve into the importance of supporting an agricultural system that not only prioritizes the health of our land and ecosystems but also ensures the sustainability of our farmers and ranchers. Get ready to explore the transformative power of regenerative agriculture.

• 3:42 – Tannis and Derek Axten share their farming experience and background.
• 8:11 – What are the future plans for Axten’s farm?
• 11:20 – Derek shares his experience learning about intercropping.
• 15:55 – What are the benefits of intercropping?
• 18:42 – What are the outcomes that Tannis and Derek have seen with intercropping?
• 23:58 – Derek and Tannis talk about where their farm is situated.
• 25:32 – How can soil be fragile?
• 28:10 – Why do Tannis and Derek keep their soil covered?
• 31:54 – How do they keep their soil covered?
• 37:05 – The Axtens talk about regenerative agriculture practices that they use on their farm.
• 42:30 – What are some of the inputs that the Axtens use on the farm?
• 47:34 – Is farming with a regenerative mindset more than ‘just farming’?
• 51:03 – What are the benefits of regenerative agriculture?
• 56:12 – Why do the Axtens implement regenerative agriculture practices on their farm?
• 58:23 – Derek talks about the differences between organic agriculture and regenerative agriculture practices.
• 1:04:12 – What can others do to increase the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices?

• Stories of Regeneration
• Stories of Regeneration Short Films Series
• Gabe Brown – Soil Health Academy
• Axten Farms

If you want to learn more, we recommend downloading and listening to:

• Ep 67 – Total Grazing – SoR Part 1
• Intercropping: Experimenting for Diversity – Andy Kirschenman

Our Farmers Blog shares stories about Alberta farmers who do an exceptional job of caring for the land, producing food, and building up their communities.

This podcast has been partially funded by Agriculture and Agri-food Canada