185. Hair, Grass, and Virtual Fences with Todd Barkley

Todd Barkley of Barkley Ranch in Southeast Montana joins us to share his journey as a fourth-generation rancher balancing education, cattle, and regenerative practices. Todd talks about building his cow herd through AI, crossbreeding with Herefords, and now introducing Galloway genetics for winter hardiness and fly resistance. He also dives deep into cover crops, soil health, and the powerful role of epigenetics in shaping cattle for the environment. A major highlight is his firsthand experience with Gallagher’s eShepherd virtual fencing system and how it’s changing the way he manages pastures and labor on his ranch.We cover topics including:Todd’s return to ranching after pursuing a teaching degreeHow CRP programs shaped his family’s operationBuilding his cow herd with Angus, Hereford, and now Galloway geneticsChallenges of managing cattle in a 9–12 inch rainfall environmentThe role of cover crops and organic matter in regenerative systemsWhy epigenetics matters in cattle selectionUsing eShepherd virtual fencing for labor savings and improved grazing managementBalancing innovation with practical ranching realitiesThis episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about how virtual fencing works on a real ranch, or for producers considering breed selection to better match cattle to their environment. Todd’s perspective shows how combining tradition, experimentation, and technology can strengthen both the land and the herd.Resources & Mentions:Johan Zietsman’s Man, Cattle and VeldMontana Grazing Lands CoalitionGallagher eShepherd Virtual FencingNRCS and regenerative ag leaders: Gabe Brown, Neil Dennis, Jerry Doan, Allen WilliamsLooking for Livestock that thrive on grass?  Check out Grass Based GeneticsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture. eShepherdGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResourcesCommunity (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast 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