Description

The NW Wisconsin Graziers Network invites you to a multi-enterprise pasture walk hosted by Anathoth Community Farm near Luck in Polk County on Saturday, July 19 from 10AM-12PM. This educational event will emphasize managing pasture during weather extremes, bee and pollinator habitat, mitigating nuisance wildlife, circling the wagons to survive global chaos, multi-species direct marketing, grazing for meat production, regenerative agriculture and watershed protection. 

The Anathoth Community Farm is home to Mike Miles, Barb Kass, and their extended family. They raise fully pastured beef, poultry, and pork and do retail sales directly to customers. The farm consists of about 60 acres on gently rolling lighter soils with pastures and wooded areas. Using temporary polywire fencing and portable animal enclosures, animals can be moved up to three times per day, thereby creating better soil health, water infiltration and diversified animal nutrition. Short term high stocking density grazing, out-wintering beef cattle and bale grazing will be discussed along with answering any and all questions from pasture walk participants.

 The farm has established key-line swales to harvest melted snow and rain water run-off for more effective water utilization and watershed protection. The swale borders are planted with various woody perennials for fruit and nut production. Forages are grown in the alleys. Silvopasturing include both partial clearing for grazing and establishment of trees in existing pastures. 

Anathoth is community based which has been key to their longevity. Farm management is balanced with both education and advocacy. Thousands of visitors over the years have gained insights into best ecological practices both in farming and basic living skills. An active member in Wisconsin Farmers Union, SCV Food Alliance, and NWWGN, Miles has seen the value of community in action. 

The farm is located at 740 Round Lake Road, south of Hwy 48. From Luck, take Hwy 48 east 8 miles, turn right or south on Cty E, drive about 2 miles, then turn right on Round Lake Road. Drive about 2 miles to the farm. From Cumberland, take Hwy 48 about 12 miles, then turn left or south on Cty E. Watch for the signs. 

For more information, contact Mike or Barb at 608-886-0020 or Lynn Johnson with NW Graziers at 715-225-9882. A light lunch will be served for those who want to stay and chat.