09/02/2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Field Day 2026, "Decade of Discovery"! One frequent comment from guests is that they enjoyed the hopeful energy. It re-charged the batteries of guests and staff alike to feel the heart and the hope in the movement of regenerative agriculture. Bringing together community and support networks is an important goal of Ecdysis Foundation and Blue Dasher Farm.
Our first speaker, Benina Montes of Burroughs Family Farms, shared her journey of regenerative agriculture in the central valley of California, starting with her multi-generational farm's transition to organic and then regenerative. Raising cattle, orchard trees, sheep, and poultry, she wasn't afraid to share the reality and challenges of transitioning to regenerative, while seeing the beauty in what they’ve created accompanying a tenacious drive for building a better and more resilient future for our children. Benina’s mother Rosie said a moving blessing for our meal as we reflect on the gift our food is to us, produced by both their farm and other local regenerative farms.
Our second speakers, Jilian and Colton Jones of Wild Idea Buffalo and Cheyenne River Buffalo Ranch, were equally open and honest in their journey, speaking of the practicalities of their journey of bison ranching on the prairies of western South Dakota as well as their motivations. They spoke with heart, an understanding of the philosophies of regeneration, as well as the practices they use and what it means for them, their animals, and the land.
As we finished enjoying conversations at dinner, we celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Ecdysis Foundation and Blue Dasher Farm by hearing part of the origin story from Gail Fuller, and some reflections from some folks from the first year. Jon rounded out the speakers with a look through the evolution of himself, the organization, and the regen movement over the last 10 years, reflecting on how Ecdysis and Blue Dasher stays rooted in mission while transforming into what is needed to achieve it. Once in a while, it becomes important to reflect on where we've been to help us see not only how far we have to go, but how far we've come.
