November 2009 interview

Cattle that thrive on 100% grass: No corn, ever.

By now it is clear to most people that we must change what we eat and how we produce food. One way to solve global problems making headlines -- climate change, energy shortage, depleted soil, human health problems such as mad cow and E. coli -- is to end our reliance on petroleum-based agricultural practices, primarily raising corn to feed livestock. By feeding cattle only grass, legumes, and hay -- no corn or any other grain -- we address all these problems.

Spider Graphs

We have developed an important new tool called a spider graph for evaluating and demonstrating the strengths and weaknesses of a bull or cow's body conformation. The conformation is a critical indicator of how well the animal will function for the producer. Ridge Shinn notes, "I first saw a graph of this type in France, used to illustrate progeny performance in sheep, and I applied the concept to evaluating cattle."

Our Bulls

Gentle giant: Rotokawas are known for their even temperament, and Bull 93 seems to enjoy the New England weather throughout the year. Artificial insemination is an inexpensive way to upgrade your herd without the expense and care of a bull. All of our Rotokawa Devons stamp their progeny with the traits that characterize this herd: hardiness, early maturity, good temperament, and volume of high-quality meat.

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To hear the Nov. 9 interview,click here.

In the November 9, 2009 program, Field Notes naturalist Laurie Sanders interviews Ridge Shinn about Mandell Hill’s owner, George Mixter, who in the late 1800s was a prominent cattle breeder with some 50 employees. The last of the Mixter family was Betty Mixter Morss who lived on the property from the 1970s. In her will, in 2003, she donated the land to the EQLT. In addition, her house and a $500,000 endowment were given to ensure that the building and property could be maintained into the future.

EQLT Board Member Judith Jones and Executive Director Cynthia Henshaw are also interviewed and describe how the Trust and volunteers restored former pasture land plus a half mile trail. For the first time in 300 years, the land is accessible to the public. In a field called President’s Field (where George Washington reportedly slept), Devon cattle are grazing healthy and happy.

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Rotokawa Estates LLC mission

Cattle that thrive on 100% grass: No corn, ever.

Spider Graphs

Our Bulls

November 2009 interview

November 2009 Interview