Partner Spotlight: Grassfed Exchange
The Grassfed Exchange is a non-profit organization, committed to the humble exchange of knowledge between producers, communities, and the world. Focused on regenerative agricultural practices, Grassfed Exchange hosts an annual conference to promote the grass-fed industry where Producers and Ranchers come together to share ideas, products and services, and livestock genetics, for the benefit of the future of the industry.
On the Direct Farm Podcast, we recently sat down with Russ Conser, a member of the Grassfed Exchange Committee, to learn more about the organization’s mission and discuss a new partnership between Barn2Door and Grassfed Exchange.
What is the Grassfed Exchange?
The Grassfed Exchange allows for the sharing of regenerative agricultural knowledge related to the grass-fed industry. Those that participate within the community gather virtually or during their annual conference to share knowledge based on individual experiences and to learn best practices that can be applied to individual operations. Russ explained, “to humbly exchange knowledge contains the idea that I have knowledge. I have the skills, but I understand and admit that there are things that I don’t know. So, I’m humble in the sense that I want to learn from someone else. Our mission is a willingness and receptiveness to share but also the willingness to learn from someone else. Grassfed Exchange provides this sharing environment.”
The other side of the organization’s mission is the connection between people and the land. Over time, we as humans have been disconnected from the roots of our food. Russ explained that the Grassfed Exchange strives to reestablish this connection. “One of the things that all regenerative producers come to recognize is that the health of the land and the people are intrinsically connected. We’re literally grounded in soil. It starts with our Farmers. Their products flow through a viable supply chain into the hands of consumers that see the value and appreciate each product. That’s what we try to be - a place where everyone can come together and learn from each other on how we can make that system work again.”
The Grassfed Exchange Conference
Each year, the Grassfed Exchange hosts a Conference in a different city, attracting Farmers and Producers to come together to learn, share, and interact with one another. For 2022, the Conference will be hosted in Fort Worth, Texas and the theme is Rooted in Wisdom. “Wisdom allows us to connect to knowledge in whatever form it may be. It could be the wisdom of the land or the wisdom of different people. The Conference is spread out over three days and follows a “how-to” format. People come to get inspired and learn how to do things differently. The first day, we offer field tours. We’ll visit multiple Farms in the area where the Producers are either pioneers or have established different techniques. The second day, there will be conference speakers that will cover various topics. Day three is all about smaller groups and breakout sessions and this is where a lot of conversation takes place.” Farmer-to-Farmer interactions are at the core of the organization’s mission where Conferences are arranged to stir-up conversation, sharing the good (and the not so good) of what has been learned over the years.
Keeping Traditions Alive While Inviting Innovation
12 years ago, the Grassfed Exchange started solely as an annual conference to connect Farmers and Producers within the industry. Today, Farmers and Producers of all ages participate through monthly virtual events as a way to keep conversations flowing without the ability to gather in person. Participation from young Farmers has opened the door to learn from those who have been in the industry for a while, and likewise, seasoned producers gain insight from young, innovative Farmers who bring a fresh perspective to the table. “We’re always looking to have conversations and explore the space together. Through our virtual events, we’ve had panels on various topics, so these formats have been a way for Producers to connect. The power of the organization is that ethos and culture that the community is willing to share.”
The Grassfed Exchange offers a Herd Fellowship as a means to attract younger Producers to join the community and participate. “All across America, there’s an interest in an appetite for a new generation of Farmers. When you see people find their passion in farming, the Grassfed Exchange offers the opportunity where people can plug in to learn from others. It’s our role to get them connected.” Through their Herd Fellowship, the Grassfed Exchange has connected many young Farmers with the tools and knowledge to build a sustainable future of farming in our country.
The Online Opportunity
Though a traditional industry, technology has allowed Farmers to reach different Buyers, by selling direct. “I think most of the people that were online have done well and those that got online did well. I think everyone is learning how to make it work - from managing inventory to setting prices and figuring out customer service. Overall, I think the move to online is here to stay. With the Grassfed Exchange, connecting Farmers with other Farmers who have experienced similar circumstances, offering insights and knowledge into how it can be easier for the Farmer and in turn, easier for their Buyers, is what we’re here for.”
At Barn2Door, we’re proud to partner with the Grassfed Exchange, an organization committed to the prosperity and future of our food system. Giving Farmers the opportunity to learn, share, and commune together, we look forward to the Grassfed Exchange Conference on May 18th, 2022 in Fort Worth, Texas!
At Barn2Door, we provide the software and the services for Farmers to grow and manage direct sales. If you’re curious how we can help your Farm increase sales, access more customers, or save time, watch this 5-minute video.