Holistic grazing

Introduction

Developed 40 years ago by Allan Savory, a Zimbabwean biologist, game ranger, politician, farmer, and rancher, holistic grazing attempts to provide a framework which results in ecologically regenerative, economically viable and socially sound management of the world’s grasslands. Holistic grazing is based on the concept of raising domestic livestock in a way that mimics wild herds grazing patterns.

In holistic grazing systems, carbon is stored into the soil, not the atmosphere which reduces greenhouse gas effects.

Why Holistic Grazing

Primary literature suggests a wide range of benefits from holistic management.<ref>http://www.savoryinstitute.com/media/53459/SI-HM%20Scientific%20Portfolio.pdf</ref>

• Enhanced profits and livelihoods
• More productive rangeland or cropland
• More biologically active soils
• Removal of existing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
• Less new carbon dioxide production
• Increased carrying capacity
• Maximum benefit from rainfall
• Reversal of desertification
• Protection from drought
• Improved wildlife habitat
• Better food security
• Improved economic viability for organics production
• Clean water