Livestock Conservation Practices: On the Farm with Walter Jackson

Farm owner Walter Jackson gives us a tour of his family farm in Lexington, MS, discussing his livestock production, resource concerns, and his use of NRCS EQIP practices.
PRESENTERS
• Walter Jackson - Owner, Walter Jackson Family Farm LLC
• Delaney Johnson - Soil and Conservation Science Director, Up in Farms
• Reginald Liddell - Soil Conservation Technician, NRCS-MS
• David Watkins - Owner, Up in Farms
LOCATION
Walter Jackson Family Farm LLC, Lexington, MS
TOPICS
1. Introduction to Livestock Conservation Practices: Walter Jackson’s discussion of managing his farm post-retirement, with a focus on grazing and livestock care.
2. Cross Fencing for Rotational Grazing: Importance of cross-fencing to improve grazing efficiency and enhance forage utilization.
3. Water Management: Issues with water sources like ponds, leaking pipes, and providing clean drinking water for livestock.
4. Government Assistance Programs: USDA and NRCS programs that help farmers implement conservation practices like fencing, weed management, and watering facilities.
5. Weed and Erosion Control: Techniques for controlling weeds and addressing soil erosion caused by livestock and water runoff.
SUMMARY
The video begins with Walter Jackson, a retired farm manager, discussing how he plans to enhance his farm's grazing system. Jackson explains that cross-fencing is a key part of his strategy to improve rotational grazing, which will allow him to increase his livestock numbers and better manage his fields. Cross-fencing helps divide large fields into smaller paddocks, enabling better forage utilization. This system ensures that cows graze evenly across fields, leaving some areas to recover while rotating the herd. Jackson aims to store extra forage for winter feed, optimizing his farm’s output.
A major focus of the conversation is water management, including the challenges Jackson faces with his farm’s ponds and water sources. He discusses the issue of a leaking pond and the need for a new water delivery system for his livestock. The video explores various options, including the construction of a water trough with a pipeline system and concrete pad to provide clean drinking water while minimizing water waste and environmental impact. These systems prevent animals from damaging the land near water sources and ensure they have consistent access to fresh water.
Government programs, particularly those offered by the USDA and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), play a crucial role in helping Jackson implement these improvements. The conversation highlights the availability of financial and technical support through programs like EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program), which helps farmers fund conservation practices. Jackson details how these programs have supported his efforts in installing cross-fencing, addressing water runoff, and implementing erosion control strategies.
In addition to water and fencing issues, Jackson also faces challenges related to weed control. Broadleaf weeds and invasive species in his pastures require consistent management, as they affect grazing efficiency and cattle health. Jackson discusses the assistance he receives from government programs for herbaceous weed treatment, which helps maintain the quality of his grazing land. Controlling these weeds ensures that cattle have access to better-quality forage, reducing the need to overgraze or rotate too quickly between paddocks.
The video concludes with Jackson emphasizing the importance of conservation practices not only for productivity but also for environmental sustainability. He reflects on the benefits of implementing these strategies, including improved soil health, better forage growth, and enhanced water quality. By using sustainable practices and taking advantage of available resources, Jackson is able to manage his farm more efficiently, ensuring long-term success for both his livestock and the land.