A logo for the minnesota grazing lands conservation association

Minnesota
Grazing Lands

Ranching for soil health enhances biodiversity and increases biological activity.


​Integrating plant diversity, keeping the soil covered, maintaining living roots as long as possible: leads to reduced inputs, greater water infiltration and holding capacity, and will help maximize profits.


Soil health is greatly enhanced when practiced in conjunction with animal agriculture.

JOIN MN GLCA!

We are looking for people who are interested in promoting grazing in MN!

Become a Member

The annual membership fee for the MN GLCA is $20. MNGLCA has partnered with the Minnesota Soil Health Coalition to offer a dual membership to both organizations for $40 per year.

Who Are We?

The Minnesota Grazing Lands Conservation Association (MNGLCA) is a grassroots 501(c)(3) Non-Profit group organized to promote the health and sustainability of the state of Minnesota's 4.63 million acres of grazing lands. We were incorporated in the state of Minnesota in 2009 and gained our Non-Profit status in 2010.

Learn More

Upcoming Events

MNGLCA Roots and Rotation: Integrating Soil Health Principles into Grazing Practices
SFA Midwest Grazing and Soil Health Summit
More Events

Grazing News & Updates

By Star Nelson February 21, 2025
Grazing for the Next Generation: The Economics of Adaptive Grazing Hubbard County Grazing Workshop February 12, 2025 Agenda: Steve Kenyon: Greener Pastures Ranching Growing Concepts and Principles Grazing Pasture Calculator Worksheet Small Ruminants and Livestock Guardian Animals The Hubbard County Soil and Water Conservation District , University of Minnesota Extension , and Minnesota Grazing Lands Conservation Association hosted Steve Kenyon , operator of Greener Pastures Ranching in Alberta, Canada. The sold-out event brought together attendees from across the state to learn about the economics of grazing, network with peers, and discuss the future of their operations. Steve Kenyon spoke about key grazing concepts and how he applies them on his ranch. The productivity of Greener Pastures Ranch relies on fundamental grazing principles and their strategic implementation. He shared insights into his operation and provided practical tips for improving both productivity and profitability. The audience actively participated, asking insightful questions and steering the discussion in a beneficial direction. A highlight of the workshop was the Greener Pastures Ranch Grazing Calculator , which Steve uses in his own operation, shares with neighbors, and incorporates into client contracts. This tool was made available to attendees for a limited time. To conclude the day, Steve led an engaging discussion on integrating alternative livestock —including pigs, sheep, goats, and chickens—into rotational grazing systems. He provided valuable ideas and strategies for incorporating small ruminants and pigs alongside cattle to enhance grazing efficiency. 
By Star Nelson October 23, 2024
MN Grazing Lands Conservation Association members can now access top-quality fencing products from Powerflex Supply at discounted rates, enhancing value and reliability.
More News & Updates

Interesting Facts about
Minnesota's Grazing Lands

Grazing Lands in MN

Comprising 8.58% (4.633 million acres, which includes pasture and forested grazing lands) of Minnesota's landscape, grazing lands are an invaluable resource.

Livestock Forage Source

Grazing lands are the primary source of forage for domestic livestock in Minnesota.

Primary Use

Beef cattle and dairy cows are the main users of Minnesota grazing lands.

Wildlife Habitat

Grazing lands provide essential habitats for various wildlife (both game and non-game)species.

Watershed Protection

Grazing lands play a crucial role in protecting watersheds and recharging water supplies.

Vegetation Diversity

The diverse vegetation on grazing lands includes both introduced and native species.

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