"We do not inherit the earth, we borrow it from our children."

Native American Proverb

With the progression of time, we as farmers are becoming increasingly disconnected from nature. 
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In the process, we have killed off the microbes that give our soil life and destroyed the "weeds" that are food for so many creatures. Our healthy soils have been turned into dead dirt that needs chemicals to sustain life. Our diverse native grasses are wiped out to plant monocultures of invasive grasses. 

‍These practices have had a devastating effect not only on our planet but on humans as well.  Our modern era’s ruthlessly efficient agricultural system doesn't fit in with the wild brush strokes of the natural world, so we have set out to destroy it and get back to the belief that nature is more than just an asset- it’s an ally! We here at 9:4Ranch are working with nature- down to the roots! We don't use pesticides, herbicides, or any inorganic toxic chemicals. Our pastures are being restored to native grasses with the goal of at least 30 species per square meter.

We are constantly building and tweaking our grazing plan to help restore our soil health. A portion of our homestead has been set aside purely for our earth in an area that has 3 ponds and approximately 10 acres of trees and native plants. In this area, we harvest many wild plants to keep our animals and ourselves healthy! 

‍Fixing the damage done starts with small steps that lead to big leaps.