186. A Recipe, Not a Prescription: Grazing Insights from the Ozarks with Bob and Ann Demerath

Grazing Grass Podcast sharing Regenerative Ag Stories

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15d ago 1:26:28

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Ann and Bob share their journey from Nebraska crop and cattle farming to building a regenerative grazing operation in the Ozarks. They discuss the challenges of starting over, investing in infrastructure like tire tanks and fencing, and adapting their herd with South Poll genetics to fit their environment. Their story highlights resilience, stewardship, and the pursuit of nutrient-dense beef and healthier soils.

Topics covered in this episode:

Transition from conventional farming in Nebraska to management-intensive grazing in Missouri
Daily moves, portable watering systems, and eventually installing 28 tire tanks
Experiences with cattle breeds including Black Angus, Braford, Corriente, and South Poll crosses
Marketing steers through private sales, meat business, and occasional sale barns
Nutrient-density testing of their beef, showing omega ratios close to wild salmon
Soil health improvements, bird diversity surveys, and ecosystem changes on their ranch
Lessons learned about rest periods, stewardship, and adapting grazing as a “recipe, not a prescription”
Future plans as they balance ranch work, family, and personal goals

Why listen to this episode:
Ann and Bob bring decades of hands-on experience, showing how management, not just genetics or land, drives success. From portable waters to garlic salt minerals, they share practical insights any grazier can apply. Their emphasis on stewardship, learning, and resilience will inspire both beginners and seasoned graziers alike.

Resources mentioned:

Stockman Grass Farmer
Man, Cattle and Veld
Top of the Ozarks grazing group
Redmond Agriculture minerals
Clear Spring Ranch – clearspringranch.com
Five Five Coyote Meat Business – fivefivecoyote.com

Looking for Livestock that thrive on grass? Check out Grass Based Genetics

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Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture.
South Poll Field Day & Sale

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