Envision Earth

Problem

Conventional ranching practices often result in dry, over-grazed land, which translates to less forage for livestock, ecosystem damage and biodiversity loss, and loss of soil carbon as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Holistic Management International (HMI) has developed new grazing practices that emulate the movement of wild herds in natural grasslands. Holistic ranching practices is all about re-creating a natural ecosystem and the symbiosis between grass and grazing animals. Unfortunately, holistic ranching requires record keeping of where the livestock have been and the condition of the forage in the areas ranchers plan to move them to next. This is quite difficult if the only tools are paper and pencil.

Solution

This project built a digital tool for ranchers to manage their land following holistic best practices. This platform lets ranchers view their plots, grazing levels, recovery process, animal health, and many other holistic factors. The platform also suggests grazing plans to maximize grass vitality. The tools include the capability to record relevant data in the field.

Impact

Holistic ranching practices reverse desertification, benefitting biodiversity, the climate, and the ranchers making a living on the land.

DIFUSE Data Science Component

Holistic Management International has information-gathering metrics and data points that they offer as resources to ranchers and farmers. This app allows ranchers to be able to view figures/graphs comparing this year to previous years. The app provides suggestions on how to alter rotations in the coming year.

For more information email: difuse-pi-group@dartmouth.edu