We're happy to announce that Holistic Management practitioners Andrew and Corinne Grift and Windy Lake Farm are the proud recipients of the 2016 Pembina Valley Conservation District (PVCD) conservation award. The Grifts run a 75-head cow-calf herd, and have been actively involved in the local farmers markets through the Harvest Moon Local Food Initiative, for several years. Andrew and Corinne began farming after moving for Windy Lake Farm in 1989; initially using conventional farming techniques. That all changed after Andrew and Corinne took a Holistic Management course with Holistic Management Certified Educator Don Campbell. After taking the class, the Grifts began using rotational grazing on their land, which gives the land time to recover before being grazed again. Practicing Holistic Management has increased biodiversity on their farm, while helping to retain additional moisture in their soils; decreasing run-off dramatically. The biodiversity and volume of forage of the land is remarkable. Their animals are being used as tools to increase the fertility and therefore the carrying capacity of the pastures. The image of the stand of plants above the ground is mirrored below ground level with its root system, so the taller the plant the deeper the roots reach for moisture and nutrients. Moisture is retained because the soil acts like a giant sponge rather than it running off. In the end, the Grift's plan is to restore the land to its original state without the use of damaging chemicals. Be sure to visit Manitoba Cooperator to learn more about Andrew and Corinne and Windy Lake Farm. To learn how HMI trains farmers and ranchers in regenerative agriculture, be sure to visit our website today.