SFA Electric Fence Workshop and Silvopasture Tour

Austin Yantes and Tyler Carlson discuss managed grazing at high stocking density to restore oak savannah to prairie ecosystems.

The Crow River Chapter of the Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota hosted an all-day event, featuring an electric fencing workshop, as well as a silvopasture tour demonstrating an oak savannah restoration project.

Ken Solberg and Doug Voss demonstrated semi-permanent electric fencing techniques for managed grazing. From digging post holes to energizer selection to crimping technique and lightning protection, this session hand-on session covered a lot of ground. Presenters shared tips and techniques from decades of experience as graziers, including handmade welded post pounders and soil tampers.

We made meaningful connections made with other attendees. Gary Wyatt from the University of Minnesota Extension shared his experiences with alternative products like midwest-grown chestnuts and hazelnuts. Tyler Carlson from Early Boots Farm in Sauk Center co-led the silvopasture discussion with Austin Yantes, who is conducting Ph.D. research on oak savannah restoration as part of a multi-year University of Minnesota research grant with Jeff Jackson.

Christopher and Emily Phillips of Phillips Farmstead in Princeton, MN.

The highlight of the day was meeting two beginning farmers, Emily and Christopher Phillips from Phillips Farmstead in Princeton, MN. Their story has many parallels to our own. Their operation is growing at lightning speed and their early success is so inspiring and motivating. Meeting great people like the Phillips family has been the highlight of our journey thus far at Rust Hill Ranch.