HOW THE REGENERATIVE CYCLE WORKS
SUNSHINE AND RAINFALL
Not only is the sun the strongest force in our solar system, but also the catalyst of a beautiful process called photosynthesis. With the help of solar energy, plants are able to photosynthesize water and carbon dioxide, releasing energy from the sun into calories like sugar and oxygen for plants and the soil. Photosynthesis takes carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, and positively redirects it into the ground as organic matter.
Rain has the healing ability to cool the earth- something we need a lot more of these days. When falling on properly managed soil, rain water is absorbed and available for plants long after the rain actually falls. Rain water supports a regenerative cycle by improving soil fertility and the replenishment of underground aquifers.
GRASSLANDS AND GRASS ROOTS
Grasslands and grass root systems may seem small, but they have a mighty impact in a regenerative cycle.
Grasses provide ground cover, capture rain and help reduce runoff. If the land is over or under grazed, it loses its ability to absorb water effectively, or at all, leading to higher chances of topsoil loss via erosion.
Down below, grass roots are constantly working to both rebuild and protect soil structure. Roots spread out far and wide binding soil together, making it stronger and more resistant to erosion. Simultaneously, roots increase porosity, allowing water and nutrients to seep into the soil underground, in turn increasing organic matter.
SOIL CARBON AND SOIL BIOLOGY
The ability for soil to capture carbon depends on factors such as soil texture, climate, and land management. Once captured in the ground, carbon increases retention of both water and nutrients. Soil carbon results in higher productivity, nutrient cycling, and helps filter out pollutants.
Soil biology is the catalyst for a healthy soil foundation. Made up of living and nonliving organisms, the biology of the soil is essential for plant and food growth.
PROPER GRAZING AND RUMINANT ANIMALS
Properly managed livestock grazing is a great tool to prevent both over and under grazing. Rotating ruminants across pastures, instead of keeping them in one designated area, permits growth, rest and recovery on unoccupied areas of the land. Pastures are then able to offer ruminants an unlimited and unmatched supply of lush, nutrient dense forage and grasses to be digested and maximized for energy use. Simultaneously, ruminants are breaking up and fertilizing the soil as they graze. By supporting Force of Nature, you are also supporting these holistic land management efforts that will continue to help revitalize our ecosystems!
HOOVES AND URINE AND MANURE
When soils become too compact, it prevents air, water, and nutrients from reaching plant roots. Compaction can happen from tractors, too much foot traffic, or when animals are not regularly rotated. As ruminants are grazing, their hooves naturally aerate the soil, helping break it up and allow the necessary nutrients to get into the root systems.
Once aerated, manure and urine from ruminants can then easily and properly fertilize the soil. This may not be the most glamorous step in the regenerative cycle, but it sure is important!
