Grosbach, AEA hosts field tour, regenerative farming demo

Farmers from as far as Scott City, Kansas joined Advancing Eco Agriculture consultants David Miller and Jason Stoll with fifth-generation farmer Joel Grosbach for a field day at Grosbach Farms in Enders on Thursday, Aug 31.
The day began with a meet-and-greet, introductions and then a drive along several miles of country roads to a spot where Grosbach grows a field of popcorn under AEA’s regenerative management program. Utilizing SAP Analysis technology, along with AEA’s Nitrogen Efficiency program, Grosbach shared how he was able to cut his nitrogen by 50 percent to 110 units spoonfed in the form of liquid urea throughout the growing season. Micronutrient and micro doses of phosphorus were also included as needed. The corn crop has some viable secondary ears, minimal insect pressure and no disease.
Next stop was a field of pinto beans, which had been planted utilizing an AEA nutritional package in furrow. Here, farmers in attendance learned that at 5th trifoliate—an aggressive flowering foliar consisting of a blend of AEA Accelerate, PhotoMag and key micronutrients based on Plant Sap Analysis—were applied, followed by maintenance doses throughout the growing season. Pelletized lime and gypsum were also applied prior to planting. The pinto beans showed healthy leaves up to the top of the plant with none of the characteristic long, narrow leaves caused by deficient Ca levels. Harvest looks promising with multiple six and seven bean pods. Grosbach said he didn’t need any pesticide applications to prevent fungal or insect pressure. While the field was surrounded by grass and thrips could be found, they never damaged the healthy bean plants.
Grosbach reflected back to seven years ago, when he first began working with AEA products and concepts. Back then, attempting to achieve optimal sap nutrient levels seemed like a losing battle. Today, with functioning soil, a healthy microbial population, and strong microbe to plant symbiosis, many of the nutrients that used to be problematic respond much more readily to foliar applications.
He also stressed how important it is to farm within the natural limits of the brittle Western Nebraska climate. He explained that while water can be pumped to produce 300 bushel corn, this is not sustainable. The long-term costs of depleting the aquifer are huge. He explained the need to diversify into crops like milo, millet and other small grains that require less water. Irrigation, said Grosbach, should be used to supplement the natural rainfall, versus being the main driver in crop production.
Back at the Grosbach’s home, David Miller spoke about how degraded farming systems contribute to a decline in nutritional integrity of the food we eat, which in turn causes health challenges within the population. He explained how farmers have a wonderful opportunity to see crops and fields begin an upward spiral of regeneration, working with nature, rather than being at war with every perceivable threat that comes along.
For more information, contact AEA’s customer service at 1.800.495.6603 or hello@advancingecoag.com.
About AEA
Founded in 2006, Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA) works alongside large-scale farmers who use regenerative farming practices. The company’s comprehensive product line includes biologicals and nutritionals; microbial and fungal inoculants; and liquid macronutrients and micronutrients. In addition to these products, AEA offers customized farm programs, full consultations, and testing to help farmers succeed.
AEA’s regenerative agriculture systems balance microbial, mineral, and mechanical inputs to consistently improve farm profitability by increasing fruit size, quality, and yield. The company works with growers to create custom plant nutrition programs that deliver results.
To help farmers assess how best to maximize crop production, AEA offers an innovative plant testing process called Plant Sap Analysis.
AEA also produces educational content to support the growth of the regenerative farming movement, including the top-rated and highly regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast and other educational content available at Advancing Eco Agriculture for growers around the world.