36: Growing Grazing Dairy Farmers

Dirt Rich

Angie Walter, the SFA/DGA Central Minnesota Education Coordinator, and her husband Nate run an organic dairy in Central Minnesota, and are also masters in the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program. Today’s episode features them in conversation with their first apprentice, Ryan Heinen, who now manages a dairy in Waukesha, Wisconsin. His passion for ecology and restoration led him to farming and to grass-based dairy, and DGA helped him build a solid foundation to take on a new endeavor.

The Walters and Ryan share their experiences in the DGA program from both the master and apprentice perspectives--it was a positive and valuable learning experience for all.

Angie highlights the value of networking events, such as pasture walks, to dairy farmers of all experience levels. There are two pasture walks remaining this season, one on August 24 in Verndale, MN, and one on September 9 in Brandon, MN. Both are free, they include lunch! More information and registration can be found on SFA’s DGA page.

Katie Feterl, SFA Communications Director

Angie Walter, SFA/DGA Central Minnesota Education Coordinator, Walter Dairy

Nate Walter, Walter Dairy

Ryan Heinen, Land and Livestock Manager, Gwenyn Hill Farm

Additional Resources:

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship

SFA/DGA Resources and Events

Dirt Rich Episode 19: Family Dairies & Apprenticeships

The viewpoints of the speakers expressed within or outside of this episode do not necessarily reflect the goals and mission of SFA.

Dirt Rich is produced by the Sustainable Farming Association.

Thoughts? Comments? Ideas? Leave us a review, or drop us a line on our Virtual Comment Box.