Happy Labor Day! What’s on your grill this weekend? We recently visited Ben Grimes at Dawnbreaker Farms (Hurdle Mills, NC)
Dawnbreaker Farms always practices sustainable/regenerative agriculture, meaning that the land will improve with their daily rotations. In our interview, Ben emphasized the importance of practices such as animal rotation, perennial growth, cover crops and groundwater safety.
- Rotating animals and crops minimizes soil erosion, reduces nutrient runoff and prevents water contamination.
- By avoiding antibiotics, chemicals and GMOs, Ben is reducing the risk of groundwater and surface water pollution and protecting aquatic ecosystems.
- Regular rotation promotes soil health, increasing its capacity to retain water and filter potential contaminants, thus safeguarding water resources.
- The use of perennial plants and cover crops enhance water infiltration, decrease runoff and provide habitat for pollinators, ultimately contributing to healthier aquatic ecosystems.
These methods challenge conventional farming norms and promote sustainability in the agricultural industry and our community’s ability to consume river-friendly meats and produce.
**Waterkeepers Carolina has compiled a list of farms in their watersheds that feed us without threatening our rivers, lakes, and streams. You can check it out HERE.
