Episode 129: A Multi-Generational Journey in Regenerative Agriculture with Jay and Chris Brandt

The Brandt Family Farm is a diverse grain farm supporting three generations. Founder Dave Brandt was a leading force in regenerative agriculture for five decades, pioneering no-till farming and cover cropping in the 1970s. Dave's innovative practices focused on improving soil health, and his advocacy made a significant impact on farming across the U.S, until his death in 2023. Over the years, the Ohio-based farm has become a model for sustainable agriculture, influencing national practices and inspiring countless farmers.

Jay and Chris Brandt, Dave's son and grandson, continue this legacy, expanding the operation with modern techniques like on-farm flour milling and advanced cover cropping. Their commitment to regenerative practices underscores the importance of community and knowledge-sharing in farming. The Brandts' ongoing work emphasizes sustainability and resilience, making substantial contributions to the future of agriculture.

In this episode, they discuss:

• The legacy of Dave Brandt

• Challenges of multi-species cover crops

• Methods and alternative approaches for terminating cover crops

• Their farm's milling operation which produces several hundred pounds of flour per week

• The importance of building a supportive farmer network

• How farmers need to engage in local governance and organizations

Additional Resources
To learn more about the Brandts and their farm, please visit: https://www.regengrain.com/

About John Kempf
John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it.​

Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology.

Support For This Show & Helping You Grow
Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture. 

AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most.

AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits.

Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide.

Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com