A Word from Executive Director Ashley McDonald

As we move into the second half of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work happening across our grazing lands and share a bit about where we are headed. 

At the National Grazing Lands Coalition (NatGLC), everything we do is rooted in our mission: to ensure that farmers and ranchers remain on the land, that wildlife thrives, and that all of society benefits from clean air, clean water, and healthy proteins. That mission has never felt more urgent, and I want to thank each of you, our producers, partners, state coalitions, and allies, for continuing to carry it forward in your networks and communities. 

We’ve spent much of the first half of this year focused on strengthening the foundation that makes our work possible. That means securing the resources and funding that keep our technical assistance efforts moving. In times of uncertainty, we know how critical it is to keep boots on the ground offering producers voluntary, science-based support that respects their time, their knowledge, and meets their real-world challenges. It’s not always easy, but we’re committed to filling the gaps wherever we can. NatGLC certainly cannot take credit alone. Our network of state coalitions and like-minded grassroots organizations are invaluable partners and leaders in delivering high-quality local education and networking opportunities.  

Behind the scenes, we are actively building out more sustainable models to fund and scale this work. It won’t be easy. I don’t believe federal funding will ever come back to the level it previously was funded at over the last several years, which reinforces the need to work with diverse funders. I’m confident that the groundwork we’re laying now will result in stronger, more resilient grazing programs for years to come. 

We are also focused on the future. This year, we are investing in our communications, strengthening connections between state coalitions, and continuing to advocate for grazing lands as a vital part of the resilient food system conversation. Whether through our webinars, trainings, or conferences, we are working to ensure that producers are equipped with the tools and information they need to succeed, and that decision makers understand the essential role of grazing lands in meeting environmental and societal goals.  

What sets NatGLC apart is our grassroots foundation. We are producer-led and partnership-driven. Every connection we make is in service of a larger goal: ensuring that America’s working lands remain working, and that those who steward them have the resources they need to have a thriving operation and community. Our producer Board of Directors is committed to ensuring quality technical assistance can be provided to all grazing producers across the country, and filling any gaps possible where we see them and can respond. Whether that is through diversification in funding, creative partnerships, or developing new approaches and programs, we intend to seek out gaps and find solutions to fill them. 

I’m incredibly grateful to work alongside a team that believes deeply in this mission. There is still much work to be done, but I remain inspired every day by the dedication, grit, and generosity of the people in this community. 

Thank you for being part of it. 

With gratitude, 

Ashley McDonald 

Executive Director, National Grazing Lands Coalition