About Joel Salatin

Joel Salatin is a renowned farmer, author, speaker, and advocate for regenerative agriculture. As co-owner of Polyface Farm in Virginia, he has spent decades pioneering innovative livestock and land management practices that have inspired farmers, homesteaders, entrepreneurs, and food system leaders around the world.

A prolific author of more than 16 books and a sought-after speaker, Salatin combines practical farming experience with thought-provoking insights on agriculture, sustainability, stewardship, and rural entrepreneurship. His engaging presentations blend humor, storytelling, and real-world applications, leaving audiences inspired with actionable ideas for building resilient farms and food systems.

Featured in the bestselling book The Omnivore’s Dilemma and the documentary Food, Inc., Salatin has become one of the most recognizable voices in regenerative agriculture. Through his work at Polyface Farm, writing, podcasts, and educational outreach, he continues to mentor the next generation of farmers and champion locally rooted, environmentally responsible food production.

Localized Soil Development

Chemical 10-10-10 fertilizer did not create the abundant and fertile North American landscape Europeans found. At the time, production exceeded modern records. None of it required imported fertility, tractors, glyphosate, or Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations. Today's most pressing question is simple: "How do we restore the pre-European abundance?" In this historical look backward we find the keys to restoration going forward.