š± New Episode Alert! šļø Tune in to Episode 33 of “Secrets of the Soil” with your host ‘Regen Ray’ Milidoni and special guest Mark Rathbone from Save Our Soil Australia! š¾
Join us as we delve into the transformative world of regenerative agriculture and learn how improving soil health can enhance food quality, benefit our climate, and bolster our health. Mark shares his extensive journey from traditional farming to biodynamic farming, offering incredible insights and practical tips for farmers and enthusiasts alike.
š Key Takeaways:
– Start with Self-Improvement: Regenerative farming isn’t just about the land; it begins with the farmer. Self-awareness and making gradual, intentional changes can lead to immense benefits for the soil, crops, and overall farming ecosystem.
– Mimicking Natural Processes: You don’t need livestock to regenerate your soil. Mark emphasizes the importance of understanding and replicating natural processes to achieve soil health, whether you’re managing vineyards, orchards, or vegetable farms.
– Value of Direct Relationships: Building strong connections through farmers markets and offering high-quality produce can lead to successful direct-to-consumer channels. Markās journey from in-person sales to a thriving online presence is a testament to the power of community and quality.
š Don’t miss this episode sponsored by SoilConnect, your go-to digital agency for soil-caring businesses!
Listen now to uncover the secrets to healthier soils and a healthier planet. Let’s spread the word and make regenerative agriculture the norm. šæ
Who Is Mark Rathbone?
Mark Rathbone runs his own business called Save Our Soil Australia. His mission is to inform people of the regenerative nature of bio-dynamic agriculture by growing tasty fruit and vegetables, selling them through farmers’ markets, and providing information on the subject via our website, speaking engagements, and other media.
Mark and his family have been bio-dynamic farming since December 1965 (when he was just 2 years old) so he is probably in a really good position to explain it.
The landscapes of traditional farming are shifting as the need for more sustainable practices becomes apparent. In the 33rd episode of “Secrets of the Soil” podcast, hosted by ‘Regen Ray’ Milidoni, guest Mark Rathbone shares invaluable insights into regenerative agriculture. Rathbone, from Save Our Soil Australia, brings decades of experience in biodynamic and regenerative farming, discussing methods, challenges, and the journey towards healthier soil, food, and climate.
Mark Rathbone's Farming Journey
Mark Rathbone’s journey began in 1996 with the founding of Save Our Soil Australia, driven by a fervent desire to educate people about biodynamic agriculture. He shares how his father transitioned to biodynamic farming in the 1960s, battling the skepticism that came with the spiritual elements tied to the practice. This foundational shift opened Markās eyes to the effective interplay between soil health and farming sustainability.
Transition to Regenerative Farming
Mark transitioned from selling biodynamic milk to growing seasonal vegetables, aligning his practices with warmer climate produce and changing market dynamics. This move was made more feasible when he secured a grant for water in 2009, which paved the way for successful vegetable production in Northern Victoria. As climate change became more evident, he noted significant shifts in water availability, prompting adjustments in farming strategies.
The CORE of Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative farming is about holistic improvement; itās an approach that fosters the health of soil, animals, plants, and people. Rathbone emphasizes that it begins with the selfāfarmers must first embrace self-improvement, tweaking their methods gradually. This concept aligns closely with the regenerative ethos, advocating for sustainable and beneficial farming techniques.
Diverse Approaches, Unified Goals
Through the experiences of farmers like Barry and Fiona Edwards, Terry Phillips, and Steve and Tanya Walter, Mark elucidates how thereās no one-size-fits-all in regenerative farming. Some farms, for instance, might not have livestock but still reap the benefits through practices like using cow manure preparations to improve soil health. These unique approaches underline the importance of understanding and adapting to oneās specific land conditions.
Soil Health Equals Better Food and Climate
In the podcast, Mark explains various practices to mimic livestock benefits without actually having cowsāa practical solution for regenerating vineyards and orchards. Techniques such as deep ripping, rotational grazing, and multiseed plantings play crucial roles in revitalizing soil health. Rathboneās deeper message is about letting the soil ābreatheā and avoiding overloading it with external inputs, amplifying the need for a balanced and respectful approach to soil treatment.
Biodynamic Practices
Biodynamic farming, encompassing practices influenced by moon cycles and zodiac signs, lends another layer of enriching the soil. Rathbone shares an anecdote about a product presenter who confirmed the moonās influence on plant growth, resonating with similar agricultural traditions across cultures, including Rayās Italian heritage.
Marketing and Community Engagement
COVID-19 catalyzed a shift from physical farmers markets to online sales for Mark Rathbone. Pre-existing relationships and branding from market presence carried over successfully to digital platforms, underscoring the resilience and adaptability of his farming business. Free samples at markets, emphasizing flavor and nutritional value, proved to be a stellar marketing approach, demonstrating that taste is a reflection of high-quality nutrition.
Educational Resources
Mark transitioned from the physical labor of farming to producing educational resources, launching the BioSorb website, an audiobook, and a magazine. His audiobook, “Growing Ray Without Chemicals,” serves as a vital resource, blending stories and guidance to help farmers avoid common pitfalls.
The Bigger Picture: Health, Climate, and Food Quality
This episode, supported by Soil Connectāa digital agency focused on soil-care businessesāilluminates the broader impact of caring for soil. Mark Rathboneās work and message align perfectly with this ethos, highlighting the systemic benefits that soil health imparts on food quality and climate resilience.
Ā
As Rathbone personifies the voice of the soil, advocating for its care and respect, ‘Regen Ray’ encourages listeners to step outside and engage with the soil directly. This episode of “Secrets of the Soil” not only educates but inspires a collective movement towards regenerative agriculture. By embracing sustainable practices, farmers can enhance their health, produce, and ultimately, contribute positively to the global climate.
Listeners are urged to share this podcast and review it to help spread the word on the imperative of soil health. Dive into the reality of regenerative agriculture by exploring resources like Rathboneās audiobook and getting hands dirty to experience the wonder and importance of healthy soil firsthand.
