AJ Boyce, an agriculture conservation practitioner with The Nature Conservancy, explores his work at the intersection of environmental sustainability and social justice. AJ explains his role at the world's largest environmental nonprofit, sharing what his day-to-day looks like—from 7 AM calls with farmers about cover crops to managing conservation projects and developing capacity for regenerative agricultural methods. The conversation breaks down misconceptions about farmers, revealing the economic pressures and uncertainties they face while discussing simple but effective conservation techniques like cover crops that reduce soil erosion and nutrient runoff.

AJ shares his work with BIPOC farming communities, describing himself as an "access advocate and resource Robin Hood," and highlights his success story of organizing Ohio's first-ever Agroforestry Summit, which grew from a simple virtual meeting of 50 people to an in-person event with over 100 participants. He explains why agroforestry, currently practiced on only 1.7% of US farmland, is important for ecosystem benefits and closing agricultural loops, while expressing hope for "increased localization" and integrating people back into landscapes through concepts like "working woods."

AJ's key message is that anyone can be a conservationist or environmental advocate, whether through hands-on work, advocacy, or simple actions. It's about finding what capacity and access you have in the moment.

Episode at a Glance

- AJ's Day-to-Day Work at The Nature Conservancy
- Navigating the Challenges of Modern Farming
- Building an Inclusive Agricultural Community
- Advocating for Underserved Farmers
- Shifting the Narrative: Conservation in Marginalized Communities
- Hope for the Future of Conservation

About AJ Boyce:

AJ Boyce is an agricultural conservation practitioner with The Nature Conservancy, dedicated to creating a more just and sustainable world. With a background in environmental studies and a passion for community engagement, he works to advance conservation strategies that are both environmentally effective and socially inclusive. AJ's work exemplifies the power of connecting with nature, empowering communities, and advocating for a more equitable future.

Connect with AJ Boyce:

• The Nature Conservancy Ohio → https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/ohio/
• Columbus Outdoor Afro → https://outdoorafro.org/places/midwest/
• AJ's Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homestead_heaux/

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