Inside a 1,200-Acre Regenerative Operation (Live Farm Tour) - Rucker Farm | #103

In this episode, we tour through Rucker Farm with Garrett Heydt to see how a large, leased regenerative operation actually works; covering hay, turkeys, water systems, minerals, and grazing decisions that shape animal health and land outcomes over time.

Key Topics 

Rotational grazing on large, leased propertiesPasture-based turkey production and managementWater infrastructure, exclusion fencing, and environmental impactHay economics vs standing winter forageRegeneration as a long-term land ethic

Why You Should Listen

Clear explanation of rotational grazing at scale (30+ paddocks, leased land)Practical breakdown of hay vs standing forage economicsRare detail on pasture-raised turkey management and behaviorInsight into water systems, mineral strategy, and soil-and-water fundingA grounded philosophy of regeneration over sustainability

Connect with Rucker Farm

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Follow the tour on YouTube

Timestamps

 00:00 Hay production and second cutting
 02:00 Pasture-raised turkeys and grazing behavior
 05:00 Predators, electric netting, and night radio strategy
 06:30 Raising turkeys: brooders, socialization, survivability
 07:45 Turkey processing timelines and sizing
 12:00 Mobile brooders and farming on leased land
 16:30 Cattle water systems and exclusion fencing
 23:00 Minerals, salt, and late-pregnancy cow health
 29:30 Hay costs vs grazing saved forage
 37:30 Regeneration vs sustainability and rebuilding soil
 48:00 Leaving the city and choosing farm life