On our farm we have a closed herd of cattle meaning we raise our own calves and grow them to market weight (approximately two and one half years). We generally have approximately 20 breeding cows, giving us a total herd of approximately 80 cattle plus our one bull, Malcom.
During the growing season (May–Nov.) the cattle are rotationally grazed on pasture. This means that the cattle are given a block of pasture (a few acres) that they graze on, once that is grazed off (every few days) they are moved ahead onto the next piece of pasture. This constant moving onto new pasture helps eliminate parasites (they do not eat again where they have manured) and helps to make more efficient use of the pasture ground.
In the winter (Dec.–Apr.) the cattle are loose housed in open, well ventilated, natural lit barns, where they are protected from the elements. During this time they are fed dry hay and haylage (fermented grass).
Our herd is predominantly Lincoln Red, an old English breed that finishes well on grass only and is very gentle and docile.
The animals are free to roam around and graze. Their living conditions support their natural and inherent behaviours.
They get their daily dose of sunshine, exercise and a variety of plant-based diets. They are also less stressed and less likely to get sick. Grass fed cattle are taken great care of and given the best choices.
Raising cattle on pasture decreases or even eliminates the need for buying feeds. Pasture based farming requires less fossil fuel usage as the animals do their own harvesting and manure spreading.
The more animals graze the field, the more they help lock carbon in the soil. Carbon build up in the atmosphere causes global warming.
Beef is rich in protein. But grass fed beef has more compared to conventionally raised beef. Protein is needed by the body for growth, development and repair.
It also has high amounts of vitamin B12, zinc and selenium. Grass fed beef, in particular, has higher conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in natural form, vitamin E, DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids.
The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is also lower. This means lower chronic inflammation which can lead to certain conditions and diseases.
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Last updated May 9, 2022.