The 32nd Annual GrassWorks Grazing Conference recently concluded, gathering over 450 participants. Over 36 sessions led by 42 speakers delved into the multifaceted aspects of grazing. The conference showcased managed grazing as a practice that not only withstands environmental and economic pressures but actively contributes to solutions. Farmers and researchers presented findings that grass-based agriculture improves soil health and water quality, provides a living for graziers and their families, and strengthens communities with economic and environmental benefits.
“The 32nd Annual GrassWorks Grazing Conference has once again proven to be a gathering space for innovation, wisdom, and inspiration. Seeing so many passionate individuals enjoy the networking and education opportunities GrassWorks has developed is very rewarding. We are not just discussing the future of grazing; we are actively shaping it. We’re ensuring that resilience, sustainability, and community remain at the heart of everything we do,” says Patty Laskowski Morren, Executive Director of GrassWorks.
Award Winner
Mary Anderson was awarded the 2024 Jerold Berg Grazing Advocate for her exceptional work on behalf of the grazing community. Her three-decade dedication to promoting managed grazing has inspired countless farmers to adopt practices that benefit the environment, their communities, as well as their livelihoods.
“Receiving the Jerold Berg Grazing Advocate Award is not just an honor; it’s a call to action. By working together, sharing our knowledge, and advocating for policies that support grass-based agriculture, we can create a more resilient and also prosperous future for farmers and rural communities” says Mary Anderson, Conservation Agriculture Specialist at Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
New Board Members
Moreover, the GrassWorks Annual Meeting saw the election of 5 new board members poised to build off their predecessor’s work and contribute their expertise and vision to the grazing community.
- Deb Jakubek, President:
- Deb and her partner, Tom operate Moos Farms, a certified grass-fed, organic dairy in northern Chippewa County. She is a seasoned grazing advocate and has been re-elected to the board for her second term.
“I am thrilled to lead GrassWorks alongside such experienced and passionate graziers. By leveraging our diverse expertise, we aim to further expand the opportunities for graziers, agencies, and professionals to connect and learn, creating a resilient agricultural future that deeply values community and environmental stewardship.” – Deb Jakubek
- Chris Johnson, Secretary:
- Chris Johnson has a foundation in Water Quality Management and Soil Science. He works as a grazing specialist with River Country RC&D with a focus on developing grazing plans. He grazes beef and sheep.
- Rick Adamski, Treasurer:
- Rick Adamski has many years of experience in organic dairy grazing and now runs a beef herd at Full Circle Community Farm. Since 1987, he’s championed grazing, serving as a grazing specialist and on several agricultural boards.
Board Members at Large
- Joseph Childs:
- Joseph Childs implemented a grazing program at his alma mater high school and operates a custom grazing business. He works as an agriculture coordinator at the Crawford Stewardship Project.
- Jeff Boyd:
- With a background in agronomy and animal science, a majority of Jeff’s career has been focused on crop production management for potato and vegetable producers He and his family rotationally graze on their home pasture.
- Leslie Svacina:
- Leslie runs Cylon Rolling Acres, rotationally grazing goats and sheep. She educates graziers and has been on numerous agricultural boards. The Nature Conservancy recognized Leslie as a farmer leader in conservation.
For more information about GrassWorks and future events, please visit grassworks.org.
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