Grass Isn’t Just Grass
If you’re raising grazing animals, your pasture is more than a patch of green—it’s a living system. This beginner-friendly class breaks down the basics of pasture management, helping you create healthier fields and happier animals. We’ll start in the classroom, then head outside for a farm tour where you’ll see good pasture practices in action. Whether you’re new to grazing or just want a firmer grip on forage, you’ll leave with practical insights you can use right away.
When: We’ll schedule this workshop again when we get at least 15 pre-registrants.
Where: Bend/Redmond
Ticket Price: Contribute-What-You-Can
Get First in Line! Pre-Register!
Pre-registration is free; we only charge your credit card when we’re ready to schedule (and you say ok). When 15 people pre-register, we’ll set up the next workshop!
The Details
Pasture and Soil Basics
Get to know the invisible world beneath your boots. You’ll learn how soil, plants, and animals interact—and how understanding these relationships can help you grow healthier forage and avoid costly problems like overgrazing or soil compaction.
Spot the Bad Guys
Some pasture plants are downright unfriendly to your animals. Learn how to identify potential hazards, assess pasture conditions, and make seasonal decisions that keep your herd healthy.
Field Trip Time! Wear Boots!
After the classroom portion, we’ll walk a local farm to look at real-world pasture management strategies. Expect a guided tour with practical takeaways you can apply at home, no matter the size of your property.
Community Potluck!
Nothing says community like a potluck. Breaking bread while building bridges, so to speak. This workshop will include a potluck, a chance to talk about what you are learning, share experiences, and get to know one another. We’ll supply the main protein. Please bring something along to share with your neighbors!
Workshop Leader
Scott Duggan
Scott is an assistant professor at Oregon State University and a well-loved local expert in livestock and pasture management. With a background in extension education and research focused on forage production, Scott brings a down-to-earth, practical approach that ranchers appreciate. Whether you raise horses, cattle, or anything that grazes, Scott knows his stuff—and he’s excited to share it with the School of Ranch community.
Partner
OSU Extension
We’re proud to team up with Oregon State University Extension Service, a longtime ally of Central Oregon communities. Their focus on sustainable agriculture, education, and collaborative problem-solving makes them a perfect match for this workshop. Together, we’re planting seeds of knowledge that grow strong, resilient farms.
Join school of ranch
Save 20% On This Workshop!
Join School of Ranch and get 20% off all workshops for a year. Your membership helps us cover our costs. Being non-profit doesn’t mean you can lose money! We need your support and nothing shows support as much as a membership.
frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
This workshop has an outdoor component, weather permitting. Dress appropriately!
What should I bring?
Notebook, questions, and a willingness to learn. No prior experience required.
Can kids attend?
Youth may attend if accompanied by an adult. Everyone must have their own ticket!
Will there be food?
Yes! This workshop includes a potluck meal. Participants are encouraged to bring a dish to share. We’ll bring the main protein!
What is School of Ranch?
School of Ranch is a Central Oregon based 501c3 nonprofit. We hire experienced locals to teach practical and artisan skills, live and in person. Beyond teaching skills and helping grow our workshop leader’s businesses, we create common ground for neighbors. School of Ranch brings together people regardless of politics, age, background or beliefs.