AoR 168: Chuck Jarecki on Ranching "with Your Face in the Ground" in Montana

AoR 168: Chuck Jarecki on Ranching "with Your Face in the Ground" in Montana

Author: Tip Hudson October 16, 2025 Duration: 52:32
Chuck Jarecki ranched in Montana from 1961 to the 1990s, using grazing to heal lands broken by the plow that never grew enough to justify continued crop farming. He had success using the classic management tools: develop stockwater in places cattle don't like to go, graze the most preferred species moderately, and give grasses time to grow back before you graze them again. Chuck won't elaborate much, but what he says is worth listening to and he has lived out his brief advice, starting with instructions from his mentor, Don Ryerson, to learn with "your face in the ground and your butt in the air." The Art of Range Podcast is supported by the Idaho Rangeland Resources Commission; Vence, a subsidiary of Merck Animal Health; and the Western Extension Risk Management Education Center. A transcript of the conversation and links to resources mentioned in this episode is available at the episode page at ahttps://artofrange.com/episodes/aor-168-chuck-jarecki-ranching-your-face-ground-montana

Hosted by Tip Hudson, The Art of Range digs into the complex and often overlooked world of rangelands. This isn't a theoretical discussion for a distant audience; it's a practical resource built for the people who are directly responsible for the stewardship of these vast landscapes. Each episode unfolds as a conversation, bringing together knowledge from science, lived experience, and on-the-ground management. You'll hear discussions that tackle real challenges, explore ecological principles, and consider the balance required for both productivity and conservation. The aim is always to inform and to foster a deeper understanding, moving beyond simple answers to the nuanced realities of managing land. By focusing on dialogue, this podcast creates a space where ideas can be exchanged and different perspectives can meet. Tune in for thoughtful explorations that connect the science of rangeland ecology with the daily decisions of those who care for it. If you're looking for a genuine and insightful take on land management, this is the podcast for you.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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