https://simplecast.com The Curious Farmer Join a curious farmer to discover ways in which farmers are using different practices to farm regeneratively. Find out how food can be produced, and how you can apply some of these principles in your backyard. She gets all the dirt from farmers, chefs and scientists that will help you make informed decisions about how you shop, buy and grow food. Kate Field, 2020 en Mon, 16 May 2022 14:05:00 +0000 Wed, 18 May 2022 11:13:38 +0000 https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com The Curious Farmer https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/f6310e69-e84d-4a35-ad95-d88076f77ba7/89a262f0-2a0c-41f1-b5a8-ac0cbc9cbc1b/3000x3000/tcf-2020-art.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com episodic Join a curious farmer to discover ways in which farmers are using different practices to farm regeneratively. Find out how food can be produced, and how you can apply some of these principles in your backyard. She gets all the dirt from farmers, chefs and scientists that will help you make informed decisions about how you shop, buy and grow food. Kate Field no https://feeds.simplecast.com/xbbeZiAX farming, agriculture, food, regenerative, sustainable Kate Field farmers@leapfarm.com.au e2d41a48-2dbc-43dd-b660-960ef99c86bb A Vote for Science and Agriculture Dr Tomas Remenyi - Climate Research Fellow at the University of Tasmania

TIA -Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

Professor David Bowman - Professor of Pyrogeography and Fire Science at the University of Tasmania.

Farmers for Climate Action - reach out for more information about how you can join your local group

To contact Kate, email thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or follow @Leap Farm on Instagram or Facebook.

]]> Mon, 16 May 2022 14:05:00 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Tomas Remenyi, David Bowman) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/a-vote-for-science-and-agriculture-SrtNs72y Dr Tomas Remenyi - Climate Research Fellow at the University of Tasmania

TIA -Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

Professor David Bowman - Professor of Pyrogeography and Fire Science at the University of Tasmania.

Farmers for Climate Action - reach out for more information about how you can join your local group

To contact Kate, email thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or follow @Leap Farm on Instagram or Facebook.

]]> A Vote for Science and Agriculture Tomas Remenyi, David Bowman 00:33:49 In September 2021, the Tasmanian branch of Farmers for Climate Action held their inaugural local conference. This episode consists of three short interviews with presenters Dr Tomas Remenyi and Professor David Bowman, climate scientists from the University of Tasmania, as well as a young local farmer, Sam Green. This episode is a call to all voters, to think about how we can best ensure a vibrant future in a world with rapidly changing agriculture, economics, and migration as a result of our changing climate. In September 2021, the Tasmanian branch of Farmers for Climate Action held their inaugural local conference. This episode consists of three short interviews with presenters Dr Tomas Remenyi and Professor David Bowman, climate scientists from the University of Tasmania, as well as a young local farmer, Sam Green. This episode is a call to all voters, to think about how we can best ensure a vibrant future in a world with rapidly changing agriculture, economics, and migration as a result of our changing climate. pyrogeography, vote, regen ag, federal election, net zero, carbon farming, climate change, sustainable agriculture, australian election, regenerative agriculture, farmers for climate action, climate, fca, climate science no full 8 2 92a0bc7f-ccb6-492a-bf1d-7631b5e98092 Learning from RANT with Safe to Fail Experiments More information about the Regenerative Agriculture Network of Tasmania (RANT) can be found on their website or Facebook page. The AGM is being held on 18th September 2021, and a farm tour demonstrating what one farmer has achieved through the practice he has learnt with RANT on September 26th.

The Tasmanian Landcare Action Grants Program can be found through  the TFGA website.

Kate would love it if you could rate or review this podcast, and if you like it, share with your curious colleagues, farmers and friends. If you want to see some pictures of Leap Farm, head to Instagram or Facebook, or even jump online to the website at leapfarm.com.au

 

]]> Fri, 10 Sep 2021 15:28:31 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Celia Leverton) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/learning-from-rant-with-safe-to-fail-experiments-6axr00U2 More information about the Regenerative Agriculture Network of Tasmania (RANT) can be found on their website or Facebook page. The AGM is being held on 18th September 2021, and a farm tour demonstrating what one farmer has achieved through the practice he has learnt with RANT on September 26th.

The Tasmanian Landcare Action Grants Program can be found through  the TFGA website.

Kate would love it if you could rate or review this podcast, and if you like it, share with your curious colleagues, farmers and friends. If you want to see some pictures of Leap Farm, head to Instagram or Facebook, or even jump online to the website at leapfarm.com.au

 

]]> Learning from RANT with Safe to Fail Experiments Celia Leverton 00:12:04 At the recent Climate-Smart Agriculture Conference in Tasmania, Kate spoke with Celia Leverton, Chair of the Regenerative Agriculture Network of Tasmania (RANT), about what the organisation is, and what this not-for-profit aims to achieve. Hint: it's all about educating farmers. After their brief discussion, Kate gives an example of safe-to-fail on-farm experiments, and what that has meant for Leap Farm. At the recent Climate-Smart Agriculture Conference in Tasmania, Kate spoke with Celia Leverton, Chair of the Regenerative Agriculture Network of Tasmania (RANT), about what the organisation is, and what this not-for-profit aims to achieve. Hint: it's all about educating farmers. After their brief discussion, Kate gives an example of safe-to-fail on-farm experiments, and what that has meant for Leap Farm. landcare, farming, farm, regen ag, climate smart farm, climate smart farming, tasmania, grass, tas ag, agriculture, pasture, tfga, regenerative agriculture, rant, climate no bonus 2 42015dd9-c6a1-488d-8333-5862347bcacf A Positive Carbon Story Iain has a background in ecology, being award his PhD in 2005. He successfully completed 2 post-docs, and was most recently a lecturer ay Macquarie University, where he gave a birds eye view and whole of systems approach to landscape function, including agriculture to the students. He has taken this view and applied it to Leap Farm.

After talking to A/Prof Matt Harrison in the last episode, he was inspired to complete a carbon audit of our farm, discovering that we sequester at least as much as 3 times more carbon than we emit.  He did this through utilising the University of Melbourne GHG calculator. He developed a spreadsheet to be able to determine our Carbon Sequestration rate (direct link not yet available, head to our Website where we will post it). While none of the data you receive is robust enough to earn you ACCUs, it will certainly give you enough information about your farm or enterprise to determine where you sit in relation to carbon footprint, and will give you some guidance as to what levers you can pull to improve your carbon sequestration or decrease your emissions. And you certainly don't need a PhD to be able to complete it!

For more assistance with the calculator, you can contact Iain at farmers@gmail.com or A/Prof Matt Harrision at matthew.harrison@utas.edu.au. Kate can be contacted at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or on FB and IG @LeapFarm.

]]> Sat, 12 Jun 2021 22:55:28 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Iain Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/a-positive-carbon-story-h7RMLJpt Iain has a background in ecology, being award his PhD in 2005. He successfully completed 2 post-docs, and was most recently a lecturer ay Macquarie University, where he gave a birds eye view and whole of systems approach to landscape function, including agriculture to the students. He has taken this view and applied it to Leap Farm.

After talking to A/Prof Matt Harrison in the last episode, he was inspired to complete a carbon audit of our farm, discovering that we sequester at least as much as 3 times more carbon than we emit.  He did this through utilising the University of Melbourne GHG calculator. He developed a spreadsheet to be able to determine our Carbon Sequestration rate (direct link not yet available, head to our Website where we will post it). While none of the data you receive is robust enough to earn you ACCUs, it will certainly give you enough information about your farm or enterprise to determine where you sit in relation to carbon footprint, and will give you some guidance as to what levers you can pull to improve your carbon sequestration or decrease your emissions. And you certainly don't need a PhD to be able to complete it!

For more assistance with the calculator, you can contact Iain at farmers@gmail.com or A/Prof Matt Harrision at matthew.harrison@utas.edu.au. Kate can be contacted at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or on FB and IG @LeapFarm.

]]> A Positive Carbon Story Iain Field 00:33:07 Iain Field, the other half of Leap Farm, chats to Kate about their positive carbon story. In this episode, we find out how they calculated their net green house gas emissions, as well as their carbon sequestration. We also find out why increasing carbon in your soil helps to build a strong, resilient farm (and what a resilient farm is). There are some tips and tricks and plenty of hope for the future in farming, whether you're big, tiny, or somewhere in between. Iain Field, the other half of Leap Farm, chats to Kate about their positive carbon story. In this episode, we find out how they calculated their net green house gas emissions, as well as their carbon sequestration. We also find out why increasing carbon in your soil helps to build a strong, resilient farm (and what a resilient farm is). There are some tips and tricks and plenty of hope for the future in farming, whether you're big, tiny, or somewhere in between. livestock, greenhouse gas, sequestration, unimelb, accus, farming, erf, carbon farm, diversity, regenerative, negative carbon, farm, regen ag, carbon, soil, university of melbourne, carbon farming, agriculture, emissions reduction fund, sustainable agriculture, methane, emissions, improving soil, australian carbon credit units, regenerative farming, regenerative agriculture, university of tasmania, sustainable, positive carbon, sustainable ag, utas, greenhouse gas emissions, carbon sequestration no full 7 2 b1cf59b8-8ac5-45d0-8a2e-044a2e32842a Ruminant Livestock and Greenhouse Gases This episode is really about carbon accounting in farming – listening will help you gain a better holistic overview and understanding of emissions from livestock, carbon sequestration in soil, and the dilemma that this presents to farmers.  

Matt, Kate and Iain discuss the need to develop strategies to assist farmers to manage their farm and livestocks  with economics, sustainability and socially acceptable solutions in mind.

Farmers who are interested in becoming involved in Matt's research can contact him via email: Matthew.Harrison@utas.edu.au - his incredibly impressive bio at UTas can be found here.

A bit more about Matthew: his research aims to improve the profitability, sustainability, competitive advantage and social acceptability of agricultural systems. He leads a team that focusses on adaptation to climate change, extreme climatic events and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions through environmental, social and economic innovations. Their work also includes disruptive technologies, irrigation, seasonal climate forecasting, and whole farm systems approaches for profitable, sustainable intensification.

Contact Kate with questions or feedback at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or on Facebook, Instagram, or via their webpage 

]]> Thu, 27 May 2021 12:54:30 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Matthew Harrison, Iain Field, Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/ruminant-livestock-and-greenhouse-gases-__FeAh2t This episode is really about carbon accounting in farming – listening will help you gain a better holistic overview and understanding of emissions from livestock, carbon sequestration in soil, and the dilemma that this presents to farmers.  

Matt, Kate and Iain discuss the need to develop strategies to assist farmers to manage their farm and livestocks  with economics, sustainability and socially acceptable solutions in mind.

Farmers who are interested in becoming involved in Matt's research can contact him via email: Matthew.Harrison@utas.edu.au - his incredibly impressive bio at UTas can be found here.

A bit more about Matthew: his research aims to improve the profitability, sustainability, competitive advantage and social acceptability of agricultural systems. He leads a team that focusses on adaptation to climate change, extreme climatic events and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions through environmental, social and economic innovations. Their work also includes disruptive technologies, irrigation, seasonal climate forecasting, and whole farm systems approaches for profitable, sustainable intensification.

Contact Kate with questions or feedback at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or on Facebook, Instagram, or via their webpage 

]]> Ruminant Livestock and Greenhouse Gases Matthew Harrison, Iain Field, Kate Field 00:49:02 Associate Professor Matthew Harrison is an agricultural scientist at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (UTas), who looks at agricultural systems from a holistic perspective. Kate (and Iain) met with Matt to get a better understanding of ruminant livestock and greenhouse gas emissions, balanced against the potential for carbon sequestration in agricultural land. Associate Professor Matthew Harrison is an agricultural scientist at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (UTas), who looks at agricultural systems from a holistic perspective. Kate (and Iain) met with Matt to get a better understanding of ruminant livestock and greenhouse gas emissions, balanced against the potential for carbon sequestration in agricultural land. livestock, greenhouse gas, farming, sheep, goats, farm, small farms, carbon, soil, biomethane, carbon farming, agriculture, sustainable agriculture, methane, emissions, ruminants, carbon emissions, regenerative farming, regenerative agriculture, cattle, cows, climate science, soil carbon, carbon sequestration no full 6 2 7c0fdbd9-030d-47f9-a036-04afaeca3fba Angus's Ark Angus Stewart is a Horticulturalist with vision, experience and generosity. He shares his wisdom and knowledge freely with us on this episode, and discusses methods such as deep planting and how to create the right environment for tree planting and ongoing maintenance.

You can discover more of Angus's knowledge, tips and tricks at his website Gardening With Angus, and follow him on Instagram where he provides regular nuggets of juicy info on worm farming, composting, Kangaroo Paw management and more.

You can contact Kate with any questions or feedback on email at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or on FB or Instagram @leapfarm, or head to the Leap Farm website.

]]> Wed, 5 May 2021 19:00:00 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Angus Stewart) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/anguss-ark-eIl94lrp Angus Stewart is a Horticulturalist with vision, experience and generosity. He shares his wisdom and knowledge freely with us on this episode, and discusses methods such as deep planting and how to create the right environment for tree planting and ongoing maintenance.

You can discover more of Angus's knowledge, tips and tricks at his website Gardening With Angus, and follow him on Instagram where he provides regular nuggets of juicy info on worm farming, composting, Kangaroo Paw management and more.

You can contact Kate with any questions or feedback on email at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or on FB or Instagram @leapfarm, or head to the Leap Farm website.

]]> Angus's Ark Angus Stewart 00:53:31 Angus Stewart has always been a visionary when it comes to the protection and longevity of native Australian plants. But his vision has become clearer, sharper and bolder. Angus graciously shares his vision with us and describes the tools and methods that he is using to see his vision blossom. Angus Stewart has always been a visionary when it comes to the protection and longevity of native Australian plants. But his vision has become clearer, sharper and bolder. Angus graciously shares his vision with us and describes the tools and methods that he is using to see his vision blossom. australia, farming, biochar, farm, regen ag, gardening, sustainable farming, agriculture, climate change, australian native plants, essential oil, regenerative farming, regenerative agriculture no full 5 2 7f9adaa0-3608-422d-96ba-fcdc8593f213 Lessons from Lauren In a mere 20 minutes, Lauren gives her perspective on where Felds Farm is today, and many of the lessons that they have learnt, along the way. She gives an update on their progress, and how their thinking about the business has matured considerably in such a short period of time.

Find Lauren through social media on Instagram and Facebook, or head to the Harvest Market at Launceston, held every Saturday, to grab some organic veg and have a chat with her while you're there. 

If you have questions for Kate, contact her via email thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com, or on Instagram or Facebook.

]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2021 14:30:18 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Lauren Byrne) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/lessons-from-lauren-QlLLmEXU In a mere 20 minutes, Lauren gives her perspective on where Felds Farm is today, and many of the lessons that they have learnt, along the way. She gives an update on their progress, and how their thinking about the business has matured considerably in such a short period of time.

Find Lauren through social media on Instagram and Facebook, or head to the Harvest Market at Launceston, held every Saturday, to grab some organic veg and have a chat with her while you're there. 

If you have questions for Kate, contact her via email thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com, or on Instagram or Facebook.

]]> Lessons from Lauren Lauren Byrne 00:23:03 Kate catches up with Lauren Byrne of Felds Farm, 18 months after they moved their share-farming operation 200km north. Kate catches up with Lauren Byrne of Felds Farm, 18 months after they moved their share-farming operation 200km north. market garden, agribusiness, small producer, small farm, farming, farm, small scale farming, regenerative farm, veggie, climate change, regenerative farming, sustainable ag, vegetable grower no full 4 2 4d7343ed-68ed-4f67-9ad4-6d61bc2671a6 Replay - The Humble Onion Here's a recap on Episode 1 - The Humble Onion, in anticipation of Episode 4 where I catch up with Lauren Byrne of Felds Farm. In this episode, which may have slightly improved audio quality than the original, we hear from Mike and Lauren about their foray into Market Gardening. 

This episode was recorded at the time they moved from some land just out of Hobart to a share-farming arrangement in Lilydale, Tasmania, some 200km away, and restarted their market garden enterprise, Felds Farm. You can find them on Instagram and Facebook.

]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/replay-the-humble-onion-XVlxhaI9 Here's a recap on Episode 1 - The Humble Onion, in anticipation of Episode 4 where I catch up with Lauren Byrne of Felds Farm. In this episode, which may have slightly improved audio quality than the original, we hear from Mike and Lauren about their foray into Market Gardening. 

This episode was recorded at the time they moved from some land just out of Hobart to a share-farming arrangement in Lilydale, Tasmania, some 200km away, and restarted their market garden enterprise, Felds Farm. You can find them on Instagram and Facebook.

]]> Replay - The Humble Onion Kate Field 00:29:27 Here's a recap on Episode 1 - The Humble Onion, in anticipation of Episode 4 where I catch up with Lauren Byrne of Felds Farm. In this episode, which may have slightly improved audio quality than the original, we hear from Mike and Lauren about their foray into Market Gardening. Here's a recap on Episode 1 - The Humble Onion, in anticipation of Episode 4 where I catch up with Lauren Byrne of Felds Farm. In this episode, which may have slightly improved audio quality than the original, we hear from Mike and Lauren about their foray into Market Gardening. market garden, farming, regen ag, climate chage, tasmania, veggie farm, carbon farming, agriculture, vegetable farming, regenerative agriculture, sustainable ag no bonus 2 bf6e216a-910d-49fb-8731-3739a59c6705 Community Through Growing Our Mates Farm is just down the road. Coreen Ung and Mathew Tack have turned an old, run down apple orchard into a thriving small farm, producing over 50 different varieties of apples, as well as lamb and pork. They believe in being radically transparent, and encourage their customers to come to the farm to understand where their food comes from, and while they're there, become mates.

Coreen takes us through the set up of the farm currently, how they use regenerative practices to manage their orchard organically. She also shares their story of how they chose to become farmers. It's inspirational and brave, and will motivate many of you who are thinking about doing something similar. Its an incredibly heart warming conversation that covers a variety of topics, including how growing food brings you and the community together.

And for great piglet pics, check out their social media: Instagram and Facebook

WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms)

]]> Wed, 7 Apr 2021 14:05:00 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/community-through-growing-YMXuYneO Our Mates Farm is just down the road. Coreen Ung and Mathew Tack have turned an old, run down apple orchard into a thriving small farm, producing over 50 different varieties of apples, as well as lamb and pork. They believe in being radically transparent, and encourage their customers to come to the farm to understand where their food comes from, and while they're there, become mates.

Coreen takes us through the set up of the farm currently, how they use regenerative practices to manage their orchard organically. She also shares their story of how they chose to become farmers. It's inspirational and brave, and will motivate many of you who are thinking about doing something similar. Its an incredibly heart warming conversation that covers a variety of topics, including how growing food brings you and the community together.

And for great piglet pics, check out their social media: Instagram and Facebook

WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms)

]]> Community Through Growing Kate Field 00:36:00 Coreen Ung of Our Mates Farm talks about organic certification, how they run multiple enterprises on their small farm, and how they have taken an old, run-down orchard and grafted over 50 different cultivars of apple to create a thriving business. Cor shares their values with us, as well as the explanation for how they came to be farmers. A heart-warming and inspirational story, with a lot of courage thrown in for good measure. Coreen Ung of Our Mates Farm talks about organic certification, how they run multiple enterprises on their small farm, and how they have taken an old, run-down orchard and grafted over 50 different cultivars of apple to create a thriving business. Cor shares their values with us, as well as the explanation for how they came to be farmers. A heart-warming and inspirational story, with a lot of courage thrown in for good measure. strong women, small farm, farming, sheep, pork, organic, orchard, heritage breeds, agriculture, family farming, lambs, pigs, heritage breed, regenerative farming, organic certification, regenerative agriculture, regen farm, family farm, apple orchard, sustainable ag no full 3 2 8f257e0e-c43b-4a12-bac0-cbd67a65d7de Q&A with Kate - The Leap Farm goat dairy system Leap Farm dairy system:

  • Once a day milking (in the mornings)
  • All kids kept with their mothers throughout the season (during the day)
  • The mothers and kids are drafted apart in the evening, with all of them shedded at night on a composting hay floor (deep litter system) that provides heat (like an electric blanket)
  • Kids are given a small amount of milk every morning (with a cuddle) for the first 6 weeks of life
  • Kids naturally wean from their mothers over the course of the season
  • The males and the females who lines aren't desirable for the milking herd are turned off the paddock when they reach a reasonable size and are sold for meat
  • Milking (and cheese making) is seasonal - in late autumn/early winter, milking ceases for the season, and both the farmers and the girls get a 3 month break
  • And so the cycle begins.

Questions and comments can be sent to Kate at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com, or contact her through Instagram or Facebook @leapfarm

]]> Wed, 24 Mar 2021 13:05:00 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/qa-with-kate-the-leap-farm-goat-dairy-system-kSuLhbyo Leap Farm dairy system:

  • Once a day milking (in the mornings)
  • All kids kept with their mothers throughout the season (during the day)
  • The mothers and kids are drafted apart in the evening, with all of them shedded at night on a composting hay floor (deep litter system) that provides heat (like an electric blanket)
  • Kids are given a small amount of milk every morning (with a cuddle) for the first 6 weeks of life
  • Kids naturally wean from their mothers over the course of the season
  • The males and the females who lines aren't desirable for the milking herd are turned off the paddock when they reach a reasonable size and are sold for meat
  • Milking (and cheese making) is seasonal - in late autumn/early winter, milking ceases for the season, and both the farmers and the girls get a 3 month break
  • And so the cycle begins.

Questions and comments can be sent to Kate at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com, or contact her through Instagram or Facebook @leapfarm

]]> Q&A with Kate - The Leap Farm goat dairy system Kate Field 00:20:32 Late last year, another goat farmer in French Guiana reached out about the dairy system that Kate and Iain utilise. So in the first Q&A episode, Kate explains how their system works. Late last year, another goat farmer in French Guiana reached out about the dairy system that Kate and Iain utilise. So in the first Q&A episode, Kate explains how their system works. artisan cheese, dairy system, farming, regen ag, australian cheese, goat farm, agriculture, sustainable agriculture, ag system, regenerative farming, goat kids, goat dairy, goat no full 2 2 ac36dee5-e85f-45a9-8cfb-af4663fcf80d Sprouting a Culture of Collaboration As small producers, we rarely get "a voice" at the table when it comes to discussions about agriculture in Tasmania or even at a federal level. Sprout has become that voice, and has been advocating for small producers in this space increasingly. But they need to know more about us - like where we are, what we farm, our economic worth and how we add value to our community.

Sprout has received funding to administer a survey to get more information about small producers in Tasmania - and they need out help to respond and also pass the survey details on to other small producers, to try and get as clear a snapshot as possible about our businesses. You can find the link here: Sprout Survey

For more info about Sprout Tasmania, head to their website. If you have the ability, please join as a member  to help keep the organisation able to advocate for us. You can also find Sprout on Facebook and Instagram. 

Season 2 of the Curious Farmer is going to look a little different from last Season - there will still be great interviews with interesting farmers, gardeners, scientists, chefs and more, but there will be more opportunity for you to ask questions - whether they be about how we farm and what we do to build carbon in our soils, or specific questions about goats (we get a lot of questions about goats...). So forward you questions to me via email at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or through our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook.

]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2021 12:06:46 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Jen Robinson) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/sprouting-a-culture-of-collaboration-0dZaSe6F As small producers, we rarely get "a voice" at the table when it comes to discussions about agriculture in Tasmania or even at a federal level. Sprout has become that voice, and has been advocating for small producers in this space increasingly. But they need to know more about us - like where we are, what we farm, our economic worth and how we add value to our community.

Sprout has received funding to administer a survey to get more information about small producers in Tasmania - and they need out help to respond and also pass the survey details on to other small producers, to try and get as clear a snapshot as possible about our businesses. You can find the link here: Sprout Survey

For more info about Sprout Tasmania, head to their website. If you have the ability, please join as a member  to help keep the organisation able to advocate for us. You can also find Sprout on Facebook and Instagram. 

Season 2 of the Curious Farmer is going to look a little different from last Season - there will still be great interviews with interesting farmers, gardeners, scientists, chefs and more, but there will be more opportunity for you to ask questions - whether they be about how we farm and what we do to build carbon in our soils, or specific questions about goats (we get a lot of questions about goats...). So forward you questions to me via email at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or through our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook.

]]> Sprouting a Culture of Collaboration Jen Robinson 00:28:37 Did you know that there is a not-for-profit organisation in Tasmania for Small Producers? Sprout was started 10 years ago, and for the last 5 years has been led by General Manager Jen Robinson. In this episode, I chat to Jen about what Sprout is, how it came about, it's "why" and why it is important for all small producers in Tasmania to get behind. Did you know that there is a not-for-profit organisation in Tasmania for Small Producers? Sprout was started 10 years ago, and for the last 5 years has been led by General Manager Jen Robinson. In this episode, I chat to Jen about what Sprout is, how it came about, it's "why" and why it is important for all small producers in Tasmania to get behind. produce, food producers, sprout, growers, farmer, small producers, tasmania, farmers, carbon farming, agriculture, sustainable agriculture, soil health, regenerative agriculture no full 1 2 08e06458-42ba-4bff-9c91-0bafaa2d88d6 Magic In A Bottle Brian Horsley is the Director, recipe maker and all-round probiotic King of MacroBoost. You can buy directly at the MacroBoost website.

For more easy-to access and read  information about humic and fulvic acids, check out Ecofarming Daily, Soil Biotics and Earthgreen.

]]> Wed, 2 Sep 2020 14:05:21 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Brian Horsley) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/magic-in-a-bottle-yaLSbjD9 Brian Horsley is the Director, recipe maker and all-round probiotic King of MacroBoost. You can buy directly at the MacroBoost website.

For more easy-to access and read  information about humic and fulvic acids, check out Ecofarming Daily, Soil Biotics and Earthgreen.

]]> Magic In A Bottle Brian Horsley 00:32:52 Brian Horsley is the owner of MacroBoost - a local Tasmanian small business that provides probiotic liquids for gardens, waste water treatments and agricultural operations. Kate chatted with Brian after purchasing some products to try and got to the bottom of why and how probiotics for plants make a difference. Brian Horsley is the owner of MacroBoost - a local Tasmanian small business that provides probiotic liquids for gardens, waste water treatments and agricultural operations. Kate chatted with Brian after purchasing some products to try and got to the bottom of why and how probiotics for plants make a difference. humus, farming, horticulture, macroboost, veggie patch, grazing management, soil, soil conditioner, agriculture, humic substances, humic acid, regenerative agriculture, probiotics, soil probiotics, carbon sequestration no full 12 1 7c24d27d-f7cf-4f10-b718-5f4c5003cb51 A Fat, Juicy, Crisp, Crunchy Carrot Fat Carrot Farm is best found on Instagram here.

Information about CSA models of selling produce can be found at the Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance here.

Contact me at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or follow Leap Farm via Facebook or Instagram - you can message me that way if you have questions or want to get in touch for a chat - I'd love to hear your ideas and thoughts, and if you have anything you want to share with this community.

Sound effects by zapsplat.com

]]> Sun, 12 Jul 2020 04:29:04 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Stan Robert, Briony Robert) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/a-fat-juicy-crisp-crunchy-carrot-e8VhpVZ2 Fat Carrot Farm is best found on Instagram here.

Information about CSA models of selling produce can be found at the Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance here.

Contact me at thecuriousfarmer@gmail.com or follow Leap Farm via Facebook or Instagram - you can message me that way if you have questions or want to get in touch for a chat - I'd love to hear your ideas and thoughts, and if you have anything you want to share with this community.

Sound effects by zapsplat.com

]]> A Fat, Juicy, Crisp, Crunchy Carrot Stan Robert, Briony Robert 00:50:56 Stan and Briony Robert of Fat Carrot Farm have been producing high quality veggies for local subscribers and the food service industry for several years. They farm using regenerative and organic principles. This episode tackles the business side of farming: Stan and Briony share their experiences in selling their produce and how they transitioned from full-time professional careers to full-time farmers. But there is so much more to this episode - we discuss the importance of community, particularly during the recent lockdown of the food service industry, philosophies that help you be successful in farming, soil health (of course!) and we take an audio tour through their market garden. Stan and Briony Robert of Fat Carrot Farm have been producing high quality veggies for local subscribers and the food service industry for several years. They farm using regenerative and organic principles. This episode tackles the business side of farming: Stan and Briony share their experiences in selling their produce and how they transitioned from full-time professional careers to full-time farmers. But there is so much more to this episode - we discuss the importance of community, particularly during the recent lockdown of the food service industry, philosophies that help you be successful in farming, soil health (of course!) and we take an audio tour through their market garden. market garden, green manure, community supported agriculture, compost, sustainable farming, soil, csa, agriculture, market gardening, soil health, regenerative farming, regenerative agriculture, sustainable ag no full 11 1 6e7d893f-10b5-4f5a-8cd6-d8df44e46ff9 It Starts From The Ground Tony O'Connell sells his blueberries direct to the public at Hobart's Farmgate Market. At this time of year, you can purchase frozen blueberries from him. They're fantastic in porridge and smoothies. His farm brand is Something From The Ground. You can also find him on Facebook and Instagram.

Tony uses biologically active sprays on his farm to enhance the health and resilience of the blueberry plants to pests and diseases. In this episode, he explains his whole-farm approach to managing his blueberry grove, and the talks around some of the decisions that he's made about the way he farms differently from his peers.

]]> Wed, 17 Jun 2020 14:57:04 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/it-starts-from-the-ground-0Wwt77xh Tony O'Connell sells his blueberries direct to the public at Hobart's Farmgate Market. At this time of year, you can purchase frozen blueberries from him. They're fantastic in porridge and smoothies. His farm brand is Something From The Ground. You can also find him on Facebook and Instagram.

Tony uses biologically active sprays on his farm to enhance the health and resilience of the blueberry plants to pests and diseases. In this episode, he explains his whole-farm approach to managing his blueberry grove, and the talks around some of the decisions that he's made about the way he farms differently from his peers.

]]> It Starts From The Ground Kate Field 00:46:28 Tony O'Connell grows blueberries in southern Tasmania. In this episode, Tony and I discuss his holistic approach to managing a monocrop, how he introduces diveristy above and below the ground, and I get to ask a bunch of questions about the effect of spraying microbes on the soil. Tony O'Connell grows blueberries in southern Tasmania. In this episode, Tony and I discuss his holistic approach to managing a monocrop, how he introduces diveristy above and below the ground, and I get to ask a bunch of questions about the effect of spraying microbes on the soil. farming, regen ag, sustainable farming, agriculture, sustainable agriculture, blueberry farming, soil health, microbes, regenerative agriculture, sustainable ag, biodiversity no full 10 1 2bccb4f2-1df4-49b4-a7e2-6358a5271343 Measuring Carbon in Soil Green Collar, the environmental consulting firm for whom Dr Jenny Sinclair works.

The Emissions Reduction Fund, 

Cape Bernier Vineyard

 

]]> Fri, 5 Jun 2020 13:46:43 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Dr Jenny Sinclair) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/measuring-carbon-in-soil-6tBCXklU Green Collar, the environmental consulting firm for whom Dr Jenny Sinclair works.

The Emissions Reduction Fund, 

Cape Bernier Vineyard

 

]]> Measuring Carbon in Soil Dr Jenny Sinclair 00:42:09 Dr Jenny Sinclair and her husband own and manage Cape Bernier Vineyard on the lower East Coast of Tasmania. In addition, she is the Chief Scientist at Green Collar, an environmental consulting firm that provides advice and project management in carbon farming strategies. In this episode, I ask Jen about the importance of carbon in soil…. And then she drops a bombshell… I wonder if you’ll be as surprised as I was? Dr Jenny Sinclair and her husband own and manage Cape Bernier Vineyard on the lower East Coast of Tasmania. In addition, she is the Chief Scientist at Green Collar, an environmental consulting firm that provides advice and project management in carbon farming strategies. In this episode, I ask Jen about the importance of carbon in soil…. And then she drops a bombshell… I wonder if you’ll be as surprised as I was? farming, soil, carbon farming, agriculture, emissions reduction fund, sustainable agriculture, soil health, regenerative farming, soil carbon no full 9 1 72a6872f-e7ef-4d24-8ffa-ba7b774a9c68 My Fishmonger Was At My Wedding Massimo tells us about how he felt when he returned to Tasmania, and how he had to work hard to carve out a niche. As he settled back into Tasmanian life, he made the effort to step outside of the kitchen and explore the state, its products and got to know the producers. He's had interesting conversations with farmers and ag consultants about regenerative agriculture along the way. He speaks to Kate about how these conversations have informed the way he works with producers, and how these relationships have changed the way he manages his kitchen.

Find Massimo at https://massimomele.com/

Instagram @chefmassimomele 

]]> Wed, 20 May 2020 14:05:02 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Massimo Mele) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/my-fishmonger-was-at-my-wedding-yJ28l28l Massimo tells us about how he felt when he returned to Tasmania, and how he had to work hard to carve out a niche. As he settled back into Tasmanian life, he made the effort to step outside of the kitchen and explore the state, its products and got to know the producers. He's had interesting conversations with farmers and ag consultants about regenerative agriculture along the way. He speaks to Kate about how these conversations have informed the way he works with producers, and how these relationships have changed the way he manages his kitchen.

Find Massimo at https://massimomele.com/

Instagram @chefmassimomele 

]]> My Fishmonger Was At My Wedding Massimo Mele 00:44:58 As restaurants and cafes around Australia and the world open up again, how do you choose which one to go to? What are the qualities in the producers and the chefs who prepare the food that make you want to support them? And how do you know if they're telling the truth? Join Kate and Massimo Mele as they explore these questions, discuss regenerative agriculture vs conventional agriculture and some of the barriers that face primary producers making the switch. And laugh out loud at a few of Massimo's stories. As restaurants and cafes around Australia and the world open up again, how do you choose which one to go to? What are the qualities in the producers and the chefs who prepare the food that make you want to support them? And how do you know if they're telling the truth? Join Kate and Massimo Mele as they explore these questions, discuss regenerative agriculture vs conventional agriculture and some of the barriers that face primary producers making the switch. And laugh out loud at a few of Massimo's stories. farming, regen ag, sustainable farming, tasmania, agriculture, chef, regenerate, regenerative agriculture, food industry no full 8 1 046613e9-9199-4d3e-b291-365d6b5ac95f Not just another vitamin pill Graeme Hand is the Director of Hand for the Land.

For those who live on the little island, you can become a member of the Regenerative Agriculture Network of Tasmania (RANT) and get access to free webinars and discounted workshops.

Graeme references Doug McKenzie-Mohr, Dr Christine Jones and Colin Seis.

More information about Holistic Planned Grazing can be found at the Savory institute.

]]> Wed, 6 May 2020 20:31:31 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Graeme Hand) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/not-just-another-vitamin-pill-7vzPPjWn Graeme Hand is the Director of Hand for the Land.

For those who live on the little island, you can become a member of the Regenerative Agriculture Network of Tasmania (RANT) and get access to free webinars and discounted workshops.

Graeme references Doug McKenzie-Mohr, Dr Christine Jones and Colin Seis.

More information about Holistic Planned Grazing can be found at the Savory institute.

]]> Not just another vitamin pill Graeme Hand 00:36:29 Graeme Hand is a certified Holistic Management Educator and cattle farmer. He has over 25 years of experience working with farmers in designing and educating about holistic planned grazing. He has worked internationally and all over Australia, across multiple different landscapes, advising landowners and managers, Industry and Government. In this episode of The Curious Farmer, Kate asks questions of Graeme about holistic planned grazing and how it fixes carbon in the soil. Graeme Hand is a certified Holistic Management Educator and cattle farmer. He has over 25 years of experience working with farmers in designing and educating about holistic planned grazing. He has worked internationally and all over Australia, across multiple different landscapes, advising landowners and managers, Industry and Government. In this episode of The Curious Farmer, Kate asks questions of Graeme about holistic planned grazing and how it fixes carbon in the soil. regenerative ag, farming, sustainable farming, holistic planned grazing, agriculture, soil health, regenerative agriculture, planned grazing, permaculture, strip grazing no full 7 1 e1d1a75b-2500-43b8-a8f3-04fcfcfc84f4 It's complicated... For a couple of photos of Mark and his garden's produce, head to the Leap Farm website, or Leap Farm Facebook or Instagram page.

]]> Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:05:16 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/its-complicated-hjDqRPRo For a couple of photos of Mark and his garden's produce, head to the Leap Farm website, or Leap Farm Facebook or Instagram page.

]]> It's complicated... Kate Field 00:12:59 In this bonus episode, we chat to Mark Scanlon, who has just finished up his first summer season in his veggie patch. Its' a fun bonus, with a few laughs, and a few pearls about growing food for your family. In this bonus episode, we chat to Mark Scanlon, who has just finished up his first summer season in his veggie patch. Its' a fun bonus, with a few laughs, and a few pearls about growing food for your family. regenerative ag, veggie patch, regenerative agriculture no bonus 1 fa36174a-01f4-43ff-b96e-63e995d38565 Tiny Scale Farming: the Veggie Patch Photos of Helen's garden can be seen on the Leap Farm Instagram and Facebook pages, or on the Leap Farm website.

Helen refers to Macroboost - probiotics for your soil. 

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2020 20:08:12 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Helen Whitaker) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/tiny-scale-farming-the-veggie-patch-k3r_uy7n Photos of Helen's garden can be seen on the Leap Farm Instagram and Facebook pages, or on the Leap Farm website.

Helen refers to Macroboost - probiotics for your soil. 

]]> Tiny Scale Farming: the Veggie Patch Helen Whitaker 00:35:47 The Coronavirus global pandemic has changed the way we interact with and think about food. We are more aware now of our local food systems and for many of us, we've suddenly been forced to think about food security. This has prompted many people to start a veggie patch. In this weeks episode, I chat with Helen Whitaker about her veggie patch, she hands down some tips and tricks, and gives us a reality check about how we can manage to fit veggie garden into our already busy lives. This is regenerative farming on a tiny scale. The Coronavirus global pandemic has changed the way we interact with and think about food. We are more aware now of our local food systems and for many of us, we've suddenly been forced to think about food security. This has prompted many people to start a veggie patch. In this weeks episode, I chat with Helen Whitaker about her veggie patch, she hands down some tips and tricks, and gives us a reality check about how we can manage to fit veggie garden into our already busy lives. This is regenerative farming on a tiny scale. compost, veggie patch, vegetable patch, mona, carrots, soil health, regenerative farming, tiny farm no full 6 1 c561c804-34c9-44bf-9261-160fcdd496f3 The Top Order Predator Gerard Lawry can be found at https://eaglerisefarm.com.au/eaglerise-farm/

If you're after more information about his permaculture farming course, you can contact him via his website or at info@eaglerisefarm.com.au

He mentions Allan Savoury https://savory.global/ and Charles Massey, best known for his recent book, The Call of the Reed Warbler.

]]> Wed, 8 Apr 2020 14:42:46 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/the-top-order-predator-RhxpYW7W Gerard Lawry can be found at https://eaglerisefarm.com.au/eaglerise-farm/

If you're after more information about his permaculture farming course, you can contact him via his website or at info@eaglerisefarm.com.au

He mentions Allan Savoury https://savory.global/ and Charles Massey, best known for his recent book, The Call of the Reed Warbler.

]]> The Top Order Predator Kate Field 00:44:52 Gerard Lawry has lived on Eaglerise Farm for 20 years. He applies organic permaculture action to his land, that he views through an ecological lens. He gives us some insights into how he uses the big picture thinking to manage his farm. We also discuss the difference between organic vs regenerative, and think about why regenerative farming is gaining momentum, where organic never did. An interesting discussion that could have become quite fraught! Gerard Lawry has lived on Eaglerise Farm for 20 years. He applies organic permaculture action to his land, that he views through an ecological lens. He gives us some insights into how he uses the big picture thinking to manage his farm. We also discuss the difference between organic vs regenerative, and think about why regenerative farming is gaining momentum, where organic never did. An interesting discussion that could have become quite fraught! permaculture farming, farming, organic, organic farming, swales, soil, ecology, soil health, regenerative farming, permaculture, biodiversity no full 5 1 cf22a980-923a-406f-a10d-5aeee55fc7ec A risk worth taking In this episode we start by exploring the reasons that led Simon and Fiona to move from a conventional dairy operation into regenerative and organic dairy farming.

When quizzed on who or what resources Simon has been using, he references David Hardwick, an agroecologist who can be located at Soil Land Food , Dick Richardson of Grazing Naturally as well as Charles Massey, author of Call of the Reed Warbler and well known Regenerative Agriculturist. Simon also reference his local Landcare group. Landcare groups exist around Australia, and are a great resource full of local knowledge that can benefit farmers.

As the conversation progresses, its apparent that Simon too has questions about regenerative farming: part of the joy of this conversation is seeing the benefit for all when talking about different ways of doing things and the cross pollination of ideas.

]]> Wed, 1 Apr 2020 17:43:02 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/a-risk-worth-taking-kndiTJTQ In this episode we start by exploring the reasons that led Simon and Fiona to move from a conventional dairy operation into regenerative and organic dairy farming.

When quizzed on who or what resources Simon has been using, he references David Hardwick, an agroecologist who can be located at Soil Land Food , Dick Richardson of Grazing Naturally as well as Charles Massey, author of Call of the Reed Warbler and well known Regenerative Agriculturist. Simon also reference his local Landcare group. Landcare groups exist around Australia, and are a great resource full of local knowledge that can benefit farmers.

As the conversation progresses, its apparent that Simon too has questions about regenerative farming: part of the joy of this conversation is seeing the benefit for all when talking about different ways of doing things and the cross pollination of ideas.

]]> A risk worth taking Kate Field 00:31:55 Simon and Fiona Mitchell are converting their conventional cow dairy into an organic and regenerative enterprise. On this week's episode, we explore some of the reasons behind their decision, as well as the ways in which they have and continue to change their operation. Simon and Fiona Mitchell are converting their conventional cow dairy into an organic and regenerative enterprise. On this week's episode, we explore some of the reasons behind their decision, as well as the ways in which they have and continue to change their operation. no full 4 1 ea139987-3c88-46a2-95a9-43cc511b0d2c Ecologism, a philosophy for life Wed, 25 Mar 2020 14:15:49 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Dave Judge) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/ecologism-a-philosophy-for-life-WOJKhOvF Ecologism, a philosophy for life Dave Judge 00:42:05 Dave and Zoe Judge from Frog Hollow Nursery show us around their nursery. They demonstrate for us how their philosophy on ecology informs their business and their life. You will get more gardening tips, learn how you can adapt to nature rather than try and tame it, as well as learning more about why biodiversity is useful, and how chemical fertilisers can impact and harm soil. Dave and Zoe Judge from Frog Hollow Nursery show us around their nursery. They demonstrate for us how their philosophy on ecology informs their business and their life. You will get more gardening tips, learn how you can adapt to nature rather than try and tame it, as well as learning more about why biodiversity is useful, and how chemical fertilisers can impact and harm soil. ecologism, farming, gardening, sustainable farming, veggie patch, ecology, sustainability, regenerative agriculture, biodiversity no full 3 1 e249bf02-dad7-4e5b-a136-1907c0d5542e Shelving for your soil Christina started as small business, FIMBY (Food In My Back Yard) a decade ago, to help get people started on urban farming. She has a background in Ag Science, and these days works with soil in various projects around Tasmania. She a passionate composter and even uses compost to heat water for showers when she's down on her farm. 

In this episode, we chat about the the importance of digging holes, what can people do to improve their soil in an urban setting, biochar and compost.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2020 19:16:19 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/shelving-for-your-soil-H7WYY_gK Christina started as small business, FIMBY (Food In My Back Yard) a decade ago, to help get people started on urban farming. She has a background in Ag Science, and these days works with soil in various projects around Tasmania. She a passionate composter and even uses compost to heat water for showers when she's down on her farm. 

In this episode, we chat about the the importance of digging holes, what can people do to improve their soil in an urban setting, biochar and compost.

]]> Shelving for your soil Kate Field 00:42:56 Urban (and rural) farmer Christina Giudici helps to define what regenerative farming is all about, the role biochar can play and the beauty of compost. And did you know that there are desirable worms? Urban (and rural) farmer Christina Giudici helps to define what regenerative farming is all about, the role biochar can play and the beauty of compost. And did you know that there are desirable worms? worms, farming, biochar, urban farming, ag science, compost, soil, regenerative agriculture no full 2 1 c8eb30d8-7a7e-4f97-8291-fa7b4b39dc73 The Humble Onion 1.25 – What prompted the move from successful careers as chefs in London to farmers in Tasmania

7.00 – Mike explains how their farm started

8.05 – Mike and Lauren explain the set up of their market garden

8.30 – We discuss and delight in the magnificence of endangered species and delight in biodiversity

10.05 – Recently moved sites – and explanation why

11.03 – How do you farm? What’s the set-up of the beds, and why?

12.10 – Discussion about turning over beds vs aerating with broad fork

12.50 – Why shouldn’t you use tilling/digging in your veggie garden, mimicking nature, building topsoil

13.45 – How to harvest your crops

14.30 – How green manure works

14.50 – Do you add anything to soil?

15.30 – Other benefits of no dig gardening

15.50 – Lauren talks about crop rotation

16.45 – Why do you grow you plants so closely together, and what is the reasoning behind bio-intensive farming?

17.30 – How to increase yield in the same amount of space 

18.00 – Other benefits of biointensive cropping

18.50 – How do you plan ahead with regard to crop rotation – how far do you have to plan ahead?

19.20 – Tips to planning your crops

20.30 –Books and other media that have informed your journey so farm

21.25 – Who are the people that have inspired you 

22.25 – What’s your favourite bit of produce that you grow and eat, and how do you best like to prepare it?

25.40 – Where can we access Felds Farm produce?

26.15 – Farming is hard work, but rewarding, and Lauren explains why.

27.00 – Mike asks us as consumers to better support local farmers

27.30 – How to find Felds Farm on social media.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2020 19:00:02 +0000 farmers@leapfarm.com.au (Kate Field) https://the-curious-farmer.simplecast.com/episodes/the-humble-onion-pHM4aN60 1.25 – What prompted the move from successful careers as chefs in London to farmers in Tasmania

7.00 – Mike explains how their farm started

8.05 – Mike and Lauren explain the set up of their market garden

8.30 – We discuss and delight in the magnificence of endangered species and delight in biodiversity

10.05 – Recently moved sites – and explanation why

11.03 – How do you farm? What’s the set-up of the beds, and why?

12.10 – Discussion about turning over beds vs aerating with broad fork

12.50 – Why shouldn’t you use tilling/digging in your veggie garden, mimicking nature, building topsoil

13.45 – How to harvest your crops

14.30 – How green manure works

14.50 – Do you add anything to soil?

15.30 – Other benefits of no dig gardening

15.50 – Lauren talks about crop rotation

16.45 – Why do you grow you plants so closely together, and what is the reasoning behind bio-intensive farming?

17.30 – How to increase yield in the same amount of space 

18.00 – Other benefits of biointensive cropping

18.50 – How do you plan ahead with regard to crop rotation – how far do you have to plan ahead?

19.20 – Tips to planning your crops

20.30 –Books and other media that have informed your journey so farm

21.25 – Who are the people that have inspired you 

22.25 – What’s your favourite bit of produce that you grow and eat, and how do you best like to prepare it?

25.40 – Where can we access Felds Farm produce?

26.15 – Farming is hard work, but rewarding, and Lauren explains why.

27.00 – Mike asks us as consumers to better support local farmers

27.30 – How to find Felds Farm on social media.

]]> The Humble Onion Kate Field 00:28:54 It’s incredibly hard for young first-generation farmers to enter the Agricultural Industry – in this episode, I talk to 20 somethings Mike and Lauren Layfield whose story about entering farming will inspire you and provide you with some tips and tricks for growing your own food at home. It also gives you an idea of options for young people who do want to be the future of farming. This interview was recorded in early spring 2019, just as the temperatures were warming up and the busy season was upon us. Mike and Lauren have had a fantastic season, despite the wind and cool temperatures, and are now regular stallholders at Launceston’s Saturday morning farmers’ market. It’s incredibly hard for young first-generation farmers to enter the Agricultural Industry – in this episode, I talk to 20 somethings Mike and Lauren Layfield whose story about entering farming will inspire you and provide you with some tips and tricks for growing your own food at home. It also gives you an idea of options for young people who do want to be the future of farming. This interview was recorded in early spring 2019, just as the temperatures were warming up and the busy season was upon us. Mike and Lauren have had a fantastic season, despite the wind and cool temperatures, and are now regular stallholders at Launceston’s Saturday morning farmers’ market. no full 1 1