Jeff and Marisa Sather's fourth-generation Sather Farm and Ranch in northeast Montana is guided by a holistic triple bottom line. This approach aims to maximize profit for the operation while also maximizing ecological and social benefits. With Jeff managing the operation and Marisa as a biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, they are committed to making sustainable decisions.

Unlock the Power of a Triple Bottom Line for Sustainable Farming

Using Cover Crops

Growing cover crops for livestock grazing is a crucial aspect of building soil biology. However, drought and grasshopper predation pose challenges. The Sathers are exploring alternative methods such as applying compost extract and fish hydrolysate to jump-start the rebuilding process. They also use a calcium treatment to break up soil compaction, reducing the need for herbicides. In years when cover crops thrive, as seen in 2021 during a severe drought, the benefits are evident. The Sathers have had success with a five-way, cool-season mix planted early in spring and grazed at different times. Soil tests have shown an increase in organic matter in just one year.

Despite potential yield reductions, the net profit per acre has improved. In drought conditions with no fertilizer, they can still harvest high yields of durum wheat.

Regenerative Livestock Production

On the cattle side, the Sathers have implemented regenerative practices. They delay calving until May and June to allow for pasture calving and practice managed grazing by rotating cattle through multiple small paddocks. They select for efficient herd genetics that thrive on grass and require few purchased inputs.

In addition to cattle, they run flocks of free-range butcher chickens and turkeys, as well as hogs sold locally. The poultry and hogs add value to the cropping enterprises' grain screenings, and the turkeys help reduce grasshopper damage to the market garden.

Growing the Farm

The Sathers have grown their operation by purchasing nearby farms. Their land base now includes 5,000 acres of cropland and 7,000 acres of pastureland. They are constantly looking for diverse enterprises and new farmers to join their operation and rejuvenate local communities.

They consider options such as selling, leasing, or gifting acres to help create revenue streams for others. While some enterprises are still experimental, they showcase the possibilities for young people starting as apprentices on the farm.

Marisa sums up the vision for their new-generation farm: "We aim to see the productivity of our operation increase over time, including traditional yield and value. This includes ecological and social value like adding families to the landscape and integrating diverse enterprise mixes. We want to see thriving wildlife and a thriving human community as we continue to succeed and grow our operation."