Farm Hero
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Meet our farm heroes-the true pioneers transforming farming and food. These extraordinary women and men are revitalizing the soil, restoring the environment, and protecting wildlife.
Where to Watch Farm Hero • 1
9 Episodes
- It's Not the Cow, It's the How
E1It's Not the Cow, It's the HowIn the series premiere, host Laura Zaspel travels to Gunnison, Colorado, to uncover innovative farming practices at Parker Pastures. Here, Bill Parker and his daughters combat desertification using grass-fed livestock and holistic grazing techniques. By collaborating with local farmers, they challenge the stigma surrounding livestock farming, demonstrating how regenerative methods can restore soil health and enhance ecosystems. Parker Pastures redefines farm-to-table, showcasing a sustainable model that breathes new life into the land and community. Laura explores how their approach not only fights environmental degradation but also sets a precedent for eco-friendly agriculture. - From the Dust Bowl to Cover Crops
E2From the Dust Bowl to Cover CropsIn Iowa, relentless rainfall and mono-cultural farming threaten to deplete all topsoil within 35 years. Host Laura Zaspel visits Elizabeth Garst, a farmer leading the charge to transform agricultural practices. Elizabeth educates farmers and the public on cover crops, which protect and enrich soil, combat erosion, and enhance long-term fertility. Building on her ancestors' legacy of reviving Dust Bowl land into a thriving farm, she champions sustainable methods to preserve Iowa's soil and ensure a resilient future for agriculture. - From Farm to City Table
E3From Farm to City TableHost Laura Zaspel visits the Killpatrick family, who transformed their backyard into a thriving urban farm in response to the 2020 pandemic. Led by Michael Killpatrick, The Farm on Central has become a community hub for holistic and organic agriculture in just a few years. Through regenerative farming techniques, the family fosters soil health and sustainability, inspiring the next generation. Laura explores how their dedication strengthens local food systems and demonstrates the power of small-scale farming in a city setting. - The Gift of Fight Personified
E4The Gift of Fight PersonifiedHost Laura Zaspel travels to White Oak Pastures in Georgia to meet Will Harris, a farmer who revolutionized his family's multi-generation farm. After two decades of mono-cultural practices, Will embraced regenerative agriculture, overcoming challenges to restore soil health and biodiversity. Alongside his family, he now leads efforts to educate the public on sustainable food systems. Laura explores how Will's bold shift demonstrates the power of regenerative farming to transform land and communities while fostering a deeper understanding of food production. - From the Field to the Award Stage
E5From the Field to the Award StageHost Laura Zaspel returns to White Oak Pastures in Georgia to delve deeper into Will Harris's regenerative farming philosophy. She explores how his family's sustainable practices have revitalized their community, often called "America's poorest town," by fostering economic and social growth. Laura witnesses the transformative impact of their commitment to local food systems. Later, she joins Will at a gala where he is honored for his pioneering work, celebrating his contributions to agriculture and community resilience. - Ray Archuleta's Mind Blowing Rain Simulator
E6Ray Archuleta's Mind Blowing Rain SimulatorHost Laura Zaspel visits White Cloud, Kansas, to meet Ray Archuleta, who inspires a generation of agricultural innovators. To highlight the importance of soil health, Laura and Ray collect soil samples in the fields. They head to the lab to test the samples using Ray's rain simulator, examining how regenerative practices impact soil resilience. The results reveal the powerful potential of sustainable farming for nurturing a healthy environment. - The Software of the Planet
E7The Software of the PlanetThe rain simulator reveals shocking results, prompting host Laura Zaspel to explore how to farm in harmony with nature. In Chattanooga, Tennessee, she meets Wayne Swanson, who helps guide farmers in protecting and revitalizing soil. This special episode highlights the mission to restore ecosystems using regenerative practices, including beneficial insects. Laura uncovers how these "Swiss Army Bugs" help American farmers repair soil health and promote sustainable agriculture. - Greetings from TomKat Ranch
E8Greetings from TomKat RanchIn the first part of the season finale, host Laura Zaspel explores the multifaceted TomKat Ranch in Pescadero, California. Created by Kat Taylor and Tom Steyer, TomKat Ranch is part ranch, part laboratory, and part educational facility, embodying a vision for sustainable agriculture. Laura delves into its innovative practices, which drive rural revitalization and promote climate stability. The ranch's efforts showcase how regenerative farming can foster a healthier planet, setting the stage for an inspiring conclusion to the season. - Only Intentional Shoppers Can Prevent Forest Fires
E9Only Intentional Shoppers Can Prevent Forest FiresIn the season one finale at TomKat Ranch in Pescadero, California, host Laura Zaspel examines flaws in the food system and the power of intentional shopping to drive change. Created by Kat Taylor and Tom Steyer, TomKat Ranch is part ranch, part laboratory, and part educational facility. Rancher Mike Biaggi introduces "the five whys," a framework for holistic management in regenerative agriculture. Laura and the team toast the farm heroes revitalizing food systems for a sustainable future.