LEARNING FROM THE LAND: TRADITIONAL FARMING PRACTICES ON DR. NATASHA’S REGENERATIVE FARM

Working on Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride’s regenerative farm in the southwestern UK was an experience that transformed my understanding of sustainable agriculture and traditional food practices. One of the first lessons I learned was how to soak grains to ferment them before feeding them to the animals. This process, which involves soaking grains in water for 12–24 hours, makes the grains easier to digest by breaking down anti-nutrients and releasing essential nutrients. The animals not only thrived on this nutrient-dense feed but also required less grain overall, as their bodies could absorb more from each serving. This simple yet impactful practice underscored the importance of prioritizing animal health through natural, time-tested methods.

Another highlight of my time on the farm was learning how to raise birds—chickens, ducks, and geese—on pasture. Dr. Natasha emphasized that giving birds plenty of space to roam and forage naturally is key to their health and well-being. The birds were free to scratch, peck, and eat insects, which complemented their soaked grain diet. Additionally, kefir was added to their water as a probiotic boost, improving their gut health and immune systems. I saw firsthand how these practices resulted in healthier birds and higher-quality eggs and meat—a testament to the benefits of working with nature rather than against it.

The farm’s approach to raising goats also reflected this philosophy of harmony with the land. Goats were rotated between fields, allowing pastures to regenerate and preventing overgrazing. This rotational grazing method not only kept the goats healthy and well-fed but also contributed to soil fertility by naturally fertilizing the land. In tandem with these practices, Dr. Natasha employed no-dig agriculture in her vegetable gardens—a method that avoids disturbing the soil’s structure and microbial life. By layering compost and organic matter on top of the soil, this technique regenerated the land, improved water retention, and enhanced crop yields without synthetic fertilizers.

Practices like soaking grains to ferment them before feeding animals reflect age-old methods that prioritize digestion and nutrition, honoring the natural needs of livestock. Similarly, no-dig gardening, which avoids disturbing the soil, mirrors ancestral techniques that worked in harmony with the land to preserve its fertility and vitality. Every method I learned on Dr. Natasha’s farm highlighted the interconnectedness of all living systems and the value of respecting nature’s rhythms. It was a powerful reminder that regenerative farming is not a new concept but a return to time-tested practices that nourish both our bodies and the earth—an approach I am eager to integrate into my own work and share with others seeking a deeper connection to sustainable living.