Regenerative Agriculture Podcast

Jason Rowntree is a professor of Animal Science at Michigan State University, where he has spent the last 16 years studying regenerative grazing systems and their impact on soil health, ecosystems, and beef nutrient density. Jason currently leads a $19 million research project across 60 U.S. ranches, using remote sensing and on-ground monitoring to measure carbon sequestration, water cycles, and biodiversity. His goal is to create economic incentives that support farmers and ranchers in adopting regenerative practices. In this discussion, John and Jason discuss: How nutrient density in beef can be significantly altered in the last 30–60 days of finishing Variations in nutrient profiles, with some "grass-fed" samples showing high omega-6 levels comparable to grain-fed beef. Unique markers that can authenticate truly grass-fed beef, offering the potential for more transparent labeling. Carbon sequestration through managed grazing How planting diverse pasture mixes creates greater nutrient density in b