A Conversation on Farming with Walter Jackson and Delaney Johnson

Up in Farms Soil and Conservation Science Director Delaney Johnson sits down with farmer Walter Jackson to discuss how he has implemented USDA conservation practices his family livestock farm.
TOPICS:
1. Introduction of the Speakers: Delaney Johnson and Walter Jackson introduce themselves, discussing their roles and backgrounds in agriculture and conservation.
2. Challenges for Small Farmers: The discussion focuses on the challenges that small and limited-resource farmers face, including financial constraints and land management.
3. Conservation Practices and Soil Health: The importance of soil surveys, conservation plans, and prescribed grazing as methods to maintain soil health and farm sustainability.
4. Government Programs and Assistance: The role of government initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act and USDA programs in supporting small farmers.
5. Environmental Impact and Wildlife Conservation: How sustainable farming practices positively affect wildlife and environmental quality, including water and air benefits.
SUMMARY:
The conversation begins with an introduction of Delaney Johnson and Walter Jackson, where they outline their experience in farming and soil conservation. Jackson, a retired USDA employee and farmer, shares his insights on agriculture's critical role in sustaining the country and highlights the challenges faced by small and limited-resource farmers. He emphasizes the importance of programs like the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides opportunities for small farmers to engage in the global market, improve their land, and adopt sustainable practices.
The discussion shifts to the importance of conservation practices, particularly in improving soil health and productivity. Jackson explains the need for small farmers to conduct soil surveys to understand the land’s capabilities and to develop effective conservation plans. Practices like prescribed grazing and installing fencing systems help maintain sustainable operations by allowing fields to rest, preventing overgrazing, and reducing erosion. These strategies, combined with USDA and land-grant university support, empower farmers to manage their land more effectively and profitably.
In addition to soil conservation, Jackson discusses his own farm, focusing on his livestock and grazing operations. He shares how using natural grasses, proper irrigation, and rotational grazing has improved his farm's productivity while minimizing the need for chemical inputs. He also reflects on the economic realities of farming, explaining that small farmers must match their land’s potential with practical goals, especially on marginal lands. He underscores the value of using locally adapted plants and grasses to sustain the farm without overstretching finances.
The conversation also highlights the role of government support in making farming sustainable. Jackson explains how programs like USDA’s technical support and loan initiatives have helped him develop his farm over time. He points out that these resources are essential for small farmers, especially when land prices are high, making it difficult to purchase land and equipment without assistance. Jackson stresses the importance of building relationships with community-based organizations and USDA officials to maximize the benefits of available programs.
Finally, Jackson discusses the positive environmental impacts of conservation practices. He shares how his farm, through its careful management of grazing and cover crops, has become a haven for wildlife such as deer and turkeys. These conservation efforts not only improve the farm's productivity but also enhance the broader ecosystem, benefiting water quality, air quality, and carbon footprint reduction. Jackson concludes by encouraging other farmers to adopt similar practices to ensure long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship.

[@cleonwoods6719]

I love what y’all are doing keep it up guys