178. Grazing Lessons from the Ground Up with Marque Renshaw

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, we hear from Marque Renshaw of Peace in the Valley Farms in West Plains, Missouri. Marque shares her journey into rotational grazing and the lessons she and her husband Ryan have learned transitioning their operation to focus on sheep. From challenging beginnings—managing animals post-house fire and learning by doing with sale barn ewes—to building a resilient and thoughtful grazing system, Marque's story is both raw and inspiring. Her passion for helping others shines through, especially in her efforts to foster a positive online community and mentor other graziers.Topics CoveredTransitioning from horses and cattle to a sheep-focused operationMistakes and hard lessons from buying sale barn sheepLearning what true rotational grazing is (and what it isn’t)How a house fire catalyzed a new farming chapterThe importance of fencing and learning to love hotwireFinding and building a relationship with a sheep-savvy vetDaily grazing rotations and pasture managementBuilding supportive and judgment-free communities for graziersEducating oneself through podcasts, grazing schools, and mentorshipThe role of women and generational legacy in agricultureWhy You Should Listen If you're managing sheep or considering them for your operation, Marque's journey is full of relatable struggles, practical insights, and hard-earned wisdom. Her transparency about missteps and breakthroughs offers a refreshing and motivating perspective—especially if you're navigating your first years in regenerative grazing.Resources MentionedPeace in the Valley FarmsGrazing Grass Community (Facebook)Grazing Sheep podcast (with Tom and Cam)Vet Caitlyn from Gainesville, MissouriLooking for Livestock that thrive on grass?  Check out Grass Based GeneticsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGrazing 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