Moirs Environmental Dialogues

Leslie Cox, Hampshire College Farm Center Manager talks with Rob about cow and grass management for happier cows, healthier consumers and a greener nation. The Farm, created by Prof. Ray Coppinger, is a place where college students and faculty integrate science and alternative technology for testing sustainable farming methods. The cows are Dutch Belted, a very rare and highly esteemed breed, developed in the Netherlands in the 1600s. With an excellent grazing ability and forage efficiency, these cows produce as much milk as larger, grain-fed cows. Known for intelligence and friendly disposition, except for Bethany who is short on the friendly but not intelligence, the cows handle easily and are “barn-trained” to do their business outside. Emitting less methane, grass-fed cows and cattle are good for the environment. An attractive alternative to the carbon footprint created by the production and transport corn.