Cattle Farmers are Reducing Emissions with Innovative Grazing Techniques

Could cows be a potential solution to climate change?

Livestock contributes significantly to climate change, with estimates ranging from 11.1% to almost 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This is primarily due to their methane-rich belches and flatulence. Given these substantial numbers, it may seem unlikely that cows could be part of the solution. However, Arizona State University Professor Peter Byck argues that cows themselves are not the problem but rather the manner in which they are managed and raised.

Progressive farmers can enhance soil health and increase carbon sequestration through a cattle grazing technique known as Adaptive Multi-Paddock (AMP) grazing. This practice, entailing the periodic movement of cattle between various land plots, facilitates the creation of carbon sinks by ranchers utilizing their herds. It mimics the historical grazing patterns of bison on the expansive U.S. plains, incorporating extended rest periods between grazing events to allow grass to flourish, thereby enriching the soil. Please note however, despite anecdotal evidence from scientists and farmers, comprehensive research to validate these assertions is lacking.

The extent to which traditional grazing farmers will adopt this innovative solution remains an open question. For several years, Peter Byck has dedicated himself to meeting with scientists and farmers. This journey has culminated in the creation of a four-part docuseries titled “Roots So Deep (You Can See the Devil Down There).”  This docuseries chronicles Peter Byck’s experiences and the knowledge he gained along the way.

The documentary features Princeton Hydro’s Senior Wildlife Biologist, Michael McGraw, CSE, QAWB, and ACE. He is part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists whose research forms the basis of the documentary.

Michael’s studies have focused on observing the dynamics of breeding bird populations in paddocks grazed by AMP and those continuously grazed. The documentary highlights that when managed effectively, farmland can boost productivity and profitability for farmers while simultaneously contributing positively to the environment and the diverse wildlife that shares the planet with humans.

During a screening of “Roots So Deep (You Can See the Devil Down There),” Michael discusses his deep emotional connection formed through a decade-long collaboration with scientists and farmers. This partnership aimed to explore new opportunities to enhance our soils, wildlife, and communities. He bestows upon the audience a powerful message: “It doesn’t matter if you believe in climate change because, at the end of the day, we’re supporting healthy American families and promoting biodiversity, which benefits us all.”

In this clip, Peter and Michael explore how individuals from diverse backgrounds and beliefs can find common ground in unexpected places. They discuss how environmental stewardship unites people, revealing shared values that transcend differences and inspire collective action towards a sustainable future.

The complete docuseries is now available for rent. Learn more and watch the series at rootssodeep.org. To learn more about Senior Wildlife Biologist, Michael McGraw, a CSE, QAWB, and ACE, click here.

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