Doug Voss

dvoss@mnsoilhealth.org

I am the third generation on our family farm where my wife Beth and I are raising our family of five boys. Our farm located by Paynesville, Mn historically operated as a dairy farm from when my grandparents started farming here during the depression. In 1999 we certified our farm for organic production with the desire to reduce our impact on our environment and produce a better product that we could feel good about. Several challenges in our farm’s past such as stray voltage, poor water quality, disease, and chemical contamination have blessed me with experiences one can only truly understand by experiencing.

Influenced by many great people passionate about soil health, we have converted all acres to a perennial system and implement adaptive grazing practices. Currently are farm includes a grass fed beef herd, a small dairy, heritage sheep, broiler chickens, and a custom grazing enterprise.

I am convinced of the positive impact improved soil health can provide as I see our farm changing for the better. The peace of mind it’s provided is remarkable. I’m encouraged by constructive conversations where people can begin to learn about how extensive the positive impacts of our management in the regenerative mindset can reach. I believe the issue of soil health can cross all tribal boundaries in real practice and effects everyone who eats and breathes. I feel as a people we can do better overall and I look forward to opportunities to contribute towards a more nourishing future.