Southeast Sustainable Farming: Crops, Cattle, & Soil Health Synergy

This 2025 article explores the potential of integrating crops and livestock as a sustainable agricultural model, particularly in the Southeastern United States. Historically, agriculture evolved with crops providing grain and fodder, while animals contributed to nutrient cycling and meat production. Modern agriculture, however, has shifted toward specialization, often separating crop and livestock operations. The article discusses two key approaches to integration: sod-based rotation systems, which incorporate perennial grasses like bahiagrass into crop cycles, and the use of cool-season forages for grazing during winter instead of leaving land fallow. These practices have been shown to improve soil organic matter, reduce pest and disease pressure, boost crop yields, and lower input costs. The cattle component adds diversity to the system, improving land use efficiency and increasing resilience. Decades of evidence demonstrate significant gains in soil health and farm profitability, even in regions with sandy, low-organic-matter soils. Despite these benefits, adoption faces challenges such as land tenure dynamics, infrastructure needs, and outdated policies. The article highlights the importance of collaboration among farmers, policymakers, and private industries to overcome these barriers. To foster such discussions, the authors are organizing the Southeastern Integrated Crop Livestock System Symposium, aimed at equipping stakeholders with tools and knowledge to make agriculture in the Southeast more resilient, profitable, and environmentally sound. The event is supported by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainable agricultural production in the region.