American Farmland Trust’s Sustainable Grazing Project supports livestock producers across the Mid-Atlantic in adopting regenerative grazing practices that improve soil health, strengthen farm viability, and protect water quality. Rooted in producer leadership, the project provides technical assistance, on-farm research opportunities, and business support to help farms implement resilient, economically sound grazing systems.
Producers engaged in the Sustainable Grazing Project are seeing measurable improvements, including:
• More grazing days and reduced reliance on purchased feed
• Improved soil cover and structure
• Enhanced forage quality and extended grazing seasons
• Reduced sediment and nutrient runoff
• Stronger producer networks that accelerate shared learning and innovation
"Roots of Resilience" is an interactive StoryMap featuring five Virginia farms participating in the Mid-Atlantic's Sustainable Grazing Project. Through maps, multimedia, and firsthand stories, explore how regenerative grazing practices are improving soil health, water quality, farm viability, and rural communities in the Rappahannock region.
Experience the StoryMap.jpeg)
Regenerative grazing improves forage productivity, reduces input costs, and builds soil health. These practices enhance resilience to drought and heavy rain, reduce nutrient runoff, and support biodiversity on working lands. By improving ecological and economic performance, sustainable grazing strengthens long-term regional food system resilience.
• Technical Assistance: Customized grazing plans, forage management, and cattle production guidance
• Peer Learning & On-Farm Research: Producer-led trials and field days supporting innovation
• Business & Market Support: Tools for recordkeeping, enterprise evaluation, certifications, and direct marketing
• Land Access & Conservation: Support for new and beginning grazers and guidance for integrating livestock into cropping systems
Since 2019, the project has worked intensively in Virginia’s Rappahannock Region—Madison, Rappahannock, Culpeper, and Fauquier counties—serving as a hub for producer collaboration and adaptive grazing innovation. Additional work and research now extend across the broader Mid-Atlantic.
The Sustainable Grazing Project welcomes livestock producers, crop farmers, landowners, and partners interested in advancing regenerative grazing across the region. To learn more or connect with our team, please reach out.
