Carbon markets have mainly focused on grain production, but there’s a rising awareness of how valuable livestock can be in this space.

Companies that purchase carbon credits are increasingly recognizing how grazing practices can contribute to carbon sequestration, according to Del Ficke, founder of Graze Master Group. He says many farmers and ranchers are searching for ways to not only improve their soil health and livestock productivity, but also tap into the emerging carbon market.

Enter cover crops.

The connection between cover crops and carbon markets is particularly exciting for those who raise cattle on pasture, according to Ficke.

“The cattle producer doesn’t really receive any perks from the government,” he explains. “When you tell them they can change a management practice, improve their grassland, create a carbon sink and make money doing it, they are very receptive.”

Graze Master Group partners with Agoro Carbon Alliance to provide farmers the expertise in the area of grazing in order to receive carbon payments. Agoro Carbon purchases carbon credits from farmers and ranchers — and Ficke says they want to buy a lot.

“Cover crops are generally a win-win in any situation,” he adds. “The only mistake you can make with cover crops is not planting them.”

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While incorporating diverse cover crops and adopting rotational grazing practices can increase carbon sequestration in the soil, many farmers and ranchers may feel overwhelmed by the variety of species available.

Find right cover crop mix

For cattle producers, certain cover crops perform better than others. Ficke says it varies by state and location but offers his favorite mix for fall and winter seedings:

“You want a good mix,” he says. “I keep it simple. When we start thinking about diversity and species, and keeping the soil covered, we also look at how we’re grazing in these areas. All of that information plays into how much carbon we currently sequester and what we need to change to increase that amount.”

Graze Master Group works with farmers and ranchers to develop the right mix for their operation, along with their desired carbon outcome.

Practical steps for farmers

When getting started in the ag carbon market with partners like Agoro Carbon and Graze Master Group, initial soil testing provides a baseline for carbon levels. From there, farmers can implement strategies to enhance carbon capture.

Related:Scouting can help evaluate cover crop investment

Those interested in integrating cover crops into their operations should take a gradual approach, according to Ficke. Starting with a small area, such as 15 to 20 acres, lets producers assess the impact and adjust as needed.

“At the end of the day,” he adds, “we just want really good soil, and better feed and forages for our livestock. And if we make our soil healthier, we’re more profitable.”