How do innovative ‘agroecological’ techniques enable Fox Holler Farmstead to both enhance animal welfare and maximize land productivity?
In this episode, Tangled Taproot chats with former DIY punk Ben Brownlow, the innovative steward of Fox Holler Farmstead, who shares his journey from urban life to managing a 280-acre agroecological marvel. Ben shares the fascinating intricacies of his farm’s ecosystem, from cows enjoying shaded pastures to pigs foraging for chestnuts. His dedication to sustainable agriculture and meticulous record-keeping through field notes and the Fox Holler Almanac highlights the interconnectedness of every element on his farm. Pastured pork and poultry, heirloom vegetables, and agroforestry initiatives come together under Ben's expert guidance. We'll uncover the cooperative efforts that support these initiatives, including agroforestry and dairy cooperatives, and collaborations with neighboring communities. Ben also delves into the critical role of fire management in maintaining native prairie ecosystems and how the farm's community land trust model ensures a community-focused balance between agriculture and ecosystem preservation.
Founded in 2020 by John Cowan, Mylk and Hummus makes on-the-go, chickpea-based snacks that focus on flavorful hummus varieties and ready-to-drink plant-based lattes. Mylk and Hummus products nourish the physical and mental endurance needs of today while considering environmental goals for the future. At Mylk and Hummus, plant-based food is made with ingredients proudly sourced through sustainable and regenerative agriculture where farming principles and practices enrich soils, restore watersheds, and lead to healthy ecosystems. The company operates on these principles to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the reversal of global trends in climate instability, habitat loss, and the vitality of the natural world.
Discussion Points:
- Introduction to Fox Holler Farmstead’s operations
- Ben Brownlow’s background and path to fox holler
- Small-scale farming and ecology integration
- Community land trust, marketing and selling food
- Perennial food crops
- Chestnut cultivation and shaded cow pastures
- Mulberry leaves and their uses
- Ben’s punk background, plant-based diet
- Ben’s writing, reading, and online resources
- Timing of tree planting vs. fruiting, shout out to Asian Pears
- Homesteading and ecology integration
Resources:
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