Advertise on podcast: Tuned in to the Land

In this first episode of Season Five of Tuned in to the Land, host Michael Delbar sits down with rancher Katie Delbar, a former USDA Farm Service Agency County Executive Director and current member of the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. Katie is also Michael’s wife and partner in ranching, bringing both professional expertise and lived experience to the conversation. Together, they explore how life on the ranch informs leadership at every level, from federal agencies to statewide policy tables. Katie shares insights from her career working alongside ranchers across Northern California, her firsthand experience navigating wildfire on working lands, and her role representing livestock and rangelands in California’s forestry and fire conversations. Together, Michael and Katie unpack how managed grazing, stewardship, and long-term land planning play critical roles in resilience, wildfire mitigation, and the future of working landscapes. The episode also takes a look at what it means to be a woman in agriculture—balancing family, leadership, and service while helping shape the next generation of agriculturalists. Grounded, practical, and hopeful, this conversation highlights the people and partnerships needed to keep California’s working lands healthy, productive, and thriving. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

In the final episode of Season 4 of Tuned in to the Land, CEO and host, Michael Delbar, sits down with newly elected Rangeland Trust Chair, Clayton Koopmann. A sixth-generation rancher from Sunol, California, Clayton brings deep family roots, hands-on experience, and a powerful commitment to the future of the Golden State’s working lands Together, Michael and Clayton reflect on a milestone year for the Rangeland Trust—surpassing the conservation of 100 ranches encompassing more than 421,000 acres. Clayton shares the story of his family’s longstanding connection to the Rangeland Trust, his journey from board member to Chair, and the values and goals he brings to this new leadership role. The conversation also looks ahead to upcoming opportunities, continued partnerships with ranching families, and the vision guiding the next chapter of rangeland conservation.  Join us as we celebrate a year of meaningful progress, honor the families stewarding California’s open spaces, and look forward to the future of protecting the landscapes that sustain us all. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

Out here on California’s rangelands, we talk a lot about stewardship—the responsibility to care for the land so it can continue to sustain generations to come. But sometimes, the land gives something back to us in return: peace, perspective, and a place to heal. This month, as we pause to honor the men and women who have served our nation on Veterans Day, we’re reminded that coming home can often be one of the toughest battles they will ever face. That’s where the Mighty Oaks Foundation steps in. Founded by Chad Robichaux, a former Force Recon Marine and veteran advocate, the organization helps warriors find hope and restoration through faith, brotherhood, and connection—all grounded in the healing power of the land. In this episode of Tuned in to the Land, CEO and host Michael Delbar sits down with Chad for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about service, healing, and the restorative role that open spaces and working lands can play. Throughout the episode, Chad shares his personal journey, including the challenges he faced after military service, living with PTSD, and the role that faith played as he worked to rebuild his life. That process eventually led him to form Mighty Oaks, drawing on what he learned and what he wished had existed for others walking a similar road. His story is raw and real, and while parts of the conversation are heavy (a heads up to our listeners), it underscores the profound impact that support, community, faith, and time spent on the land can have in helping people find their way back to hope. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

At the Rangeland Trust, we’re rooted in conserving California’s working lands through voluntary conservation easements—but just as vital is our commitment to supporting the ranchers who care for these lands every day. Yet today’s producers face increasing challenges—from shrinking markets and limited processing options to regulatory pressures and the spread of misinformation—that threaten the future of ranching as we know it. But as public interest in strengthening local food systems grows, so does the movement to stand behind our ranchers. Across the state, organizations are stepping up to build connections, strengthen local food systems, and create lasting solutions through collaboration. In this episode, Rangeland Trust CEO and host, Michael Delbar, sits down with Michael Dimock, Executive Director of Roots of Change, to discuss how these partnerships are helping bridge divides, address challenges facing producers, and empower the next generation of ranchers. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

At the Rangeland Trust, conserving California’s working landscapes means more than protecting open space—it also means preserving the stories of the people who steward them. Ranching families carry generations of knowledge, resilience, and tradition, and if those stories aren’t shared, they risk being lost. In this episode, we highlight Roots and Resilience: California Ranchers in Their Own Words, a book that brings together the voices of ranching families from across the state through stories, poems, and essays. Host and CEO of the Rangeland Trust, Michael Delbar, is joined by Dr. Susan Marshall, Emeritus Professor at Cal Poly Humboldt and the editor who brought this project to life, to discuss her inspiration, the editing journey, and what she hopes people will gain from reading the book. As a bonus, we also hear from contributor and Rangeland Trust Legacy Council Chair, Jessica Schley. Jessica reflects on her family’s ranching history and how the loss of their family’s property inspires her work today and fuels her support of the Rangeland Trust. As a special treat, she reads an excerpt from her piece in the book—bringing her words and perspective to life in a way only she can. When you purchase a copy of Roots and Resilience, a portion of the proceeds directly supports the California Rangeland Trust and our mission to protect the state’s working landscapes for generations to come. Purchase yours here: https://a.co/d/jhICAL9 Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

At the Rangeland Trust, we are honored to work alongside people whose livelihoods are deeply tied to the health of the land. Ranchers know that caring for the land is more than a responsibility—it’s a way of life built on stewardship, grit, and adaptability. Yet, the challenges they face are many: from water shortages and unpredictable weather to shifting regulations and rising costs, today’s ranchers are navigating pressures from every direction. In this episode, CEO and host, Michael Delbar, revisits with the Elgorriaga family—whose story you may recognize from our documentary You Just Can’t See Them From the Road. For generations, they have ranched in California’s Central Valley, meeting each new challenge with persistence, passion, and creativity. Michael sits down with four members of the third generation of the Elgorriaga family—Stephen, Peter, Paul, and Christina—to reflect on their upbringing, the values that have sustained them, and their vision for the future of the ranch as the next generation grows on the land. More than just a family history, this conversation offers an intimate look at the everyday realities of ranching in modern California—and a powerful reminder of what’s at stake when we talk about protecting working lands and the people who steward them. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

In celebration of the National Day of the Cowboy, we’re taking you to the “cowboy side of California” — the small town of Parkfield — where the Varian family has spent generations stewarding the land, building community, and sharing the values of ranch life. Located in the Cholame Valley, the V6 Ranch is more than a working cattle operation. It’s a living legacy of conservation, hospitality, and heritage. In this episode, host and CEO, Michael Delbar, sits down with Jack, John, and Lauren Varian to share the story of their ranch. They discuss what it means to protect the land through a conservation easement with the California Rangeland Trust, and how they open their gates to the public through cattle drives, trail rides, and cowboy academies. Together, they talk about what it means to live with the land, to honor the past while preparing for the future, and to keep the spirit of the West alive. If you want to learn more about how you can get involved in the work that we do, visit rangelandtrust.org Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

In this episode of Tuned in to the Land, host and CEO, Michael Delbar, sits down with Natalie Kovarik — a fourth-generation cattle rancher, ag advocate, and co-host of the Discover Ag podcast. Together, they explore the critical role communications plays in sustaining the agricultural industry and fostering understanding between those who produce our food and those who consume it. From her rural Nebraska ranch to reaching millions through social media, Natalie has built a platform grounded in transparency, connection, and an unwavering passion for the industry. In this conversation, she shares how her journey into digital storytelling began, why it’s essential for producers to be proactive voices, and how authenticity can build trust with a public increasingly disconnected from where their food comes from. You'll hear how Natalie tackles misinformation, elevates real stories from the land, and empowers other producers to join the conversation with clarity and confidence. Whether you're directly involved in agriculture or simply curious about the people and practices behind your food, this episode offers compelling insight into how communication can bridge the gap between producers and the public. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

Year after year, wildfires in California grow more intense, more unpredictable, and more devastating. We’ve watched fire seasons stretch longer, push first responders beyond capacity, and leave entire communities reeling. Water has run out mid-response. Crews have been forced to focus on active flames, while at-risk properties are left vulnerable. Too often, property owners are left standing alone—garden hose in hand—without a plan or resources to protect what they’ve spent a lifetime building. But it doesn’t have to be this way. In honor of Wildfire Awareness Month, this episode focuses on proactive solutions—strategies that give landowners the tools and confidence to act before the flames arrive. Joining host and CEO, Michael Delbar, are two experts on the frontlines of wildfire prevention: Shawn Sahbari, founder and CEO of Komodo Fire Systems, and Stuart Mitchell, a Certified Wildfire Mitigation Specialist with Wildfire Mitigation Advisors. Together, they share real-world advice, innovative products, and field-tested tactics to help property owners protect their land, homes, and legacies from the growing threat of wildfire. __________ If you found today’s conversation helpful and want to dive deeper into wildfire preparedness, join the California Rangeland Trust and Komodo Fire Systems for an upcoming webinar titled “Mitigating Fire Risks on YOUR Ranch.” You’ll hear more from Stuart Mitchell on smart, real-world mitigation strategies, gain insurance insights from a local agent, and explore the range of products Komodo offers to help you protect and prepare your property. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit rangelandtrust.org/events. __________ If you’re interested in having Stuart visit your property to assess and help reduce wildfire risk, head to wildfiremitigationadvisors.com to learn more and get in touch. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

Every day is Earth Day on ranches. Through grazing, stewardship, and conservation, the work happening on these landscapes quietly supports healthier ecosystems, thriving wildlife, and even a more stable climate. That’s why, in honor of Earth Day, we’re excited to welcome a guest who shares that same passion for the planet—and for truth in science. Dr. Frank Mitloehner, commonly known as the "Greenhouse Gas Guru," is a professor and air quality specialist at UC Davis and leads the CLEAR Center, where research meets real-world application. In this episode, our host and CEO, Michael Delbar, sits down with Dr. Mitloehner to explore his groundbreaking research and how it's helping ranchers, policymakers, and the public rethink the role of livestock in the climate conversation. With the right management, livestock don’t just feed the world—they can help heal the land. The California Department of Food and Agriculture and the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences invite you to participate in a two-day conference: State of the Science Summit: Reducing Methane from Animal Agriculture. The Summit will be held May 19-21, 2025 at the ARC Ballroom at UC Davis. Register for the Summit here: https://caes.ucdavis.edu/news/events/FeedSummit  Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

In celebration of California Agriculture Day, this Wednesday, March 19th, we sat down with California Secretary of Agriculture, Karen Ross for this special episode of Tuned In to the Land. Throughout the conversation, Secretary Ross shares her journey from rural Nebraska to leading the nation’s largest agricultural economy. She also discusses the myriad of challenges and opportunities facing California agriculture from sustainability and land conservation to the policies shaping the future of the industry. Join host and CEO of the California Rangeland Trust, Michael Delbar, as he and Secretary Ross explore the vital role of working lands in feeding our nation. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about the past, present, and future of California agriculture! Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

Throughout history, the American West has been shaped not only by the ranchers and cowboys who work the land but also by the skilled artisans who create the tools and treasures that define the lifestyle. In this episode, host & CEO, Michael Delbar, sits down with Chet Vogt, whose family founded Vogt Silversmiths, a name synonymous with timeless craftsmanship and Western tradition. Chet takes us on a journey through the rich history of his family’s legacy, the meticulous artistry that goes into each handcrafted piece, and the deep connection between their ranching background and their designs. We’ll also explore how the decline of traditional trades threatens the future of Western craftsmanship—and what Vogt Silversmiths is doing to preserve this time-honored craft for generations to come. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

Each year, the Rangeland Trust honors a landowner partner as the Conservationist of the Year, recognizing their commitment to voluntary conservation and dedication to preserving California's working landscapes. This year’s recipient is Ernest Bufford of Bufford Ranch, a former Los Angeles CHP officer turned first-generation rancher. Ernest’s conservation journey began in the early 2000s when he acquired over 500 acres in Kern County's Walker Basin. In 2013, he partnered with the Rangeland Trust to protect his 575-acre ranch through a conservation easement, laying the foundation for a remarkable legacy of stewardship and preservation. Since then, Ernest has expanded his efforts, using funds from the easement to conserve an adjacent stretch of land in 2016 and, with support from private donors, adding a 65-acre parcel in 2023. Today, he has safeguarded a total of 910 acres, protecting six diverse ecosystems and numerous plant and animal species. Ernest’s contributions extend beyond land preservation—through partnerships with a local tribe and California State University, Bakersfield, he has unearthed and preserved artifacts dating back over 3,200 years. His respect for the land’s history and the people who came before him drives his mission to honor and protect the land for future generations. In this episode, Rangeland Trust CEO and host Michael Delbar sits down with Ernest to discuss his journey into ranching, his conservation efforts, and what it means to be named Conservationist of the Year. Together, they reflect on the importance of preserving rangelands, honoring the past, and ensuring the land’s vitality for years to come. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

In this episode, host & CEO, Michael Delbar, digs deeper—quite literally—into how the Stones have put soil health at the forefront of their management practices. Together, they explore a variety of innovative programs they’re involved in, all aimed at improving soil quality and building resilience. From rotational grazing and cover cropping to composting and carbon sequestration projects, the Stones have seen firsthand the benefits of prioritizing the health of their soil. Their efforts have not only improved the productivity of their land but also strengthened the ecological balance that supports wildlife and plant diversity.   We are excited to share the second half of the conversation with Scott and Karen Stone as they walk us through the importance of soil care and the practices that are making a difference on their ranch. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

Yolo Land and Cattle Co. is a multi-generational ranch, owned and operated by the Stone family. Nestled in the hills of Yolo County, their ranch is a familiar sight for travelers along I-505 and I-5. For five generations, the Stones have worked tirelessly to sustain this landscape, ensuring its health as a working ranch and vibrant business.   California Rangeland Trust's CEO, Michael Delbar, joined two of the individuals at the helm of this operation, Scott and Karen Stone. Scott and Karen, alongside their family, have continually adapted their practices, embracing innovation to keep their operations viable and resilient. In 2005, they conserved their 7,500-acre property with the California Rangeland Trust, becoming champions for conservation.    In this episode, we dig into the Stones' operations at Yolo Land and Cattle Co., their decision to conserve, and their vision for future generations who will care for the land. Want to learn more? Chat with us! Support the show Learn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!