175. Adapting Grazing and Breeding to Harsh Environments with Doug Badcock

In this episode, we head to Zambia to talk with Doug Badcock of Green Lid Enterprises. Doug shares his journey from managing a diverse crop and livestock farm to developing a passion for grazing and livestock management. Situated just miles from the Congo border, Doug discusses the realities of ranching in Zambia’s unique environment—from tropical grasses and fires to high-density grazing and breeding Boran and Angoni cattle. His openness about trial, error, and continual improvement makes this a valuable conversation for graziers everywhere.Topics Covered:Transitioning from conventional to regenerative grazingGrazing livestock near the Congo borderUsing electric fencing in remote areasManaging forage through fire and seasonal rainfallAdjusting calving and breeding seasonsAdapting cattle breed selection to local conditionsHigh-density grazing: when it works and when it hurtsForage management with bananas and corn stalksDifferences between Boran, Sussex, Angoni, and other African breedsUsing line breeding and natural selection in herd developmentDoug Badcock brings a unique perspective to the Grazing Grass Podcast from his farm in Zambia. His willingness to share both successes and challenges—from learning to manage tropical forage to selecting the right breeds for his environment—makes this episode a global look at regenerative grazing principles. Whether you farm in Oklahoma or Africa, you’ll find inspiration and insight in Doug’s honest storytelling and deep curiosity for continual improvement.Resources Mentioned:Green Lid Enterprises Facebook & YouTube: https://youtube.com/@green_lid_enterprises?si=elTGbGeGCylwOuSNhttps://www.facebook.com/share/192BW7WRNN/https://www.instagram.com/green_lid_enterprises?igsh=b2V5OHAwMmk0eG1oJohan Zietsman's book Man, Cattle and VeldCalvin Birioti's YouTube video featuring Doug’s farm Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResourcesCommunity (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastChapters Looking for grass-based breeders? Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture Grassroots CarbonGrazing Grass LinksWebsiteCommunity (on Facebook)Original Music by Louis Palfrey