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Simple technology

Take another look at that cornfield above, then look at this perennial pasture. Wow, what a difference! This picture was taken in mid July, on a 95 degree day. Look how thick and dense the grass is, even in the drought. Robert is using a simple step-in post and reusable wire to subdivide this pasture before our cattle enter a fresh field for their daily graze.

Alternatively, this is an 89 degree reading taken just a few feet away in my pasture. The thermometer is sitting in full sunlight, on top of the ground, yet is a staggering 20 degrees cooler than the exposed earth! Now, which do you think will evaporate more quickly, water on a sun baked 109 degree surface, or moisture hiding beneath a shaded, 89 degree pasture? Pastures and hayfields comprise over 600 million acres in the United States, more than triple all types of grain fields combined.

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