Learn Independently
Farming can be a busy lifestyle that requires learning options that fit varied schedules. CFGA has developed a learning platform that is mobile-friendly so that you can learn and reference information where ever you might be. The learning platform creates opportunities for you to learn on your own or connect with other farmers learning the same materials. We also have created many opportunities to ask questions of mentors and other rotational grazing experts.
Whether you’re managing a large operation that keeps you on the farm, have an off-farm job or possible family commitments, this program was designed for people who are interested in learning, but may not always be able to attend the many great workshops available. With a device, an internet connection and a will to learn, CFGA’s Advanced Grazing Systems is a course to provide anyone wanting the basics on rotational grazing a foundation of the most important concepts.
Register to access the Advanced Grazing Systems course online.
Learn with a Mentor
If you would like to take your learning to the next level consider finding a mentor to help you in learning about rotational grazing. Using the curriculum used in the independent learning, Farmers for Climate Solutions (FCS) is creating opportunities for farmers to link up with experienced support networks to get a little more support. The program offers live training sessions as well as access to FCS’s own learning platform containing all of the same materials. As part of the program, you will have access to follow up support from your mentor.
The CFGA is a member of the Farmers for Climate Solutions coalition who are supporting and leading training mentors in the three areas of cover crops, nitrogen management and rotational grazing. In a collaborative effort, Farmers for Climate Solutions and CFGA have worked together to develop the Advanced Grazing Systems curriculum and mentorship program. One of the main goals of this program is to provide potential mentors the skills to mentor others and for farmers to learn within support networks. Learn more about the Farm Resilience Mentorship (FaRM) Program
Find Funding
The next step in creating a grazing plan is to put that plan into action. Through the On-Farm Climate Action Fund, CFGA is working with partners in Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec and Saskatchewan to distribute funds to farmers ready to put Advanced Grazing concepts into practice.
We are finalizing the details of the program and aim to be releasing the program in July 2022. Sign up for updates to receive notifications.
About Rotational Grazing
Rotational grazing is a practice that has been in use for years, however recently has garnered more interest from more farmers. Rotational grazing can help livestock producers by:
- extending their grazing period
- increasing the yield of pastures
- improving the forage quality for livestock
- reducing weed pressure
- improving nutrient cycling
- helping to build soil health
In addition to many of those important benefits for the farm operation, there are also additional positive impacts across the Canadian landscape because rotational grazing
- promotes biodiversity
- sequesters carbon
- can improve the water cycle
The CFGA is passionate about promoting this practice and in the last year, we have been working with our members and a variety of organizations to promote such a useful practice through advocacy, education and creating funding opportunities.
Mentorship
Created in partnership with Farmers for Climate Solutions and Greener Pastures Ranching this mentorship program was developed to ensure that knowledge and know-how on rotational grazing can easily be found across Canada. Mentors are generally someone who is already well versed in rotational grazing and interested in helping 10-20 farmers develop their own grazing plans.
This national program supports mentors with training two four-hour training sessions with continued support that covers the basics of rotational grazing and the mentorship process. This program will continue to support mentors with both regular peer-to-peer support sessions and on-demand resource materials. The mentors work through provincial partners who support mentors with extension support and delivering the training.
Contact us if you have any questions or would like to register to take the mentorship training.