Episode #185: Rising Beef Prices, Shrinking Cattle Herds, and the Art of Moving Livestock with Joel Salatin

The U.S. cattle herd has shrunk to its lowest level since 1951 and beef prices are climbing–with no end in sight.  But what’s behind this decline? And what can be done about it?

Enter Joel Salatin, the legendary farmer and regenerative agriculture expert. 

In this episode, Joel breaks down what’s happening in the beef industry and why proper livestock movement—whether it’s cows, chickens, goats, or sheep—is the key to healthier animals, better land management, and, ultimately, a more resilient food supply.

But moving animals isn’t as simple as opening a gate. Joel shares his insider secrets on how to rotate livestock effectively, manage animals on steep hills and dense forests, and avoid common pitfalls that can turn your homestead into chaos.

Whether you’re a seasoned rancher, an aspiring homesteader, or just someone trying to understand why beef prices are soaring, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

This Week’s Community Question:
Have you ever found yourself sprinting down the road after a runaway sheep, goat, or cow?

Share your story with us in the comments!

Watch and Discuss This Episode Here

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• Find Joel Here: www.polyfacefarms.com
• Find Sina Here: www.drsinamccullough.com

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Chapters

• 0:00 Intro: Joel on the Drought
• 5:21 The Importance of Moving Cows
• 7:23 Overgrazing & Nutrition
• 15:16 Sanitation
• 22:59 Diversified Diet
• 26:30 How To Move Livestock
• 37:31 Joel on Goats
• 52:04 Homesteading on Steep Terrain