Butch Tindell
About Me.
Charles (Butch) Tindell is a farmer/rancher and instructor at The Ploughshare Institute for Sustainable Culture (sustainlife.org) near Waco, Texas. He has over 40 years’ experience farming and ranching and has taught sustainable farming to hundreds of farmers and gardeners as well as developed and published courses and curricula, manuals and articles. His work involves bio-intensive food production, permaculture and holistic management on projects ranging in size from backyard gardens to ranches of over 10,000 acres across the US. He holds a BBA from Angelo State University, a Permaculture Design Certificate from Oregon State University and studied and/or collaborated with leaders in regenerative agriculture such as John Jeavons, John Navazio, Darren Doherty and Allan Nation. With his wife, Diane and their children and grandchildren, they raise cattle and sheep on their family farm in central Texas.
Education
1979-1983
BBA in Marketing & Management
Angelo State University
As a student in the BBA in Marketing & Management program, I was immersed in a dynamic blend of marketing expertise and essential management skills. Throughout my studies, I delved into consumer behavior, market research, advertising, branding, and sales strategies. Additionally, I gained proficiency in organizational behavior, leadership, and strategic planning. This comprehensive curriculum prepared me to excel in various roles within marketing, sales, or management across diverse industries.
1985
Post-graduate coursework in Tax Accounting, Real Estate and Insurance
McLennan Community College
In my post-graduate coursework, I focused on tax accounting, real estate, and insurance. This specialized training provided me with in-depth knowledge of tax laws, real estate transactions, and insurance principles. It prepared me for a range of professional opportunities in these fields.
2015
Permaculture Design Certificate (PINA)
Oregon State University
Obtaining my Permaculture Design Certificate (PINA) provided me with comprehensive training in sustainable design principles and practices. Through this program, I gained expertise in creating resilient ecosystems, regenerative agriculture techniques, and holistic land management strategies. This certification has equipped me with the skills to design and implement sustainable solutions for a variety of environments, fostering biodiversity and ecological harmony.
2015
Regrarians® Farm Planning Workshop & Conference with Darren Doherty
Attending the Regrarians® Farm Planning Workshop & Conference with Darren Doherty offered me intensive training in regenerative agriculture and land planning strategies. Through this program, I gained valuable insights into designing holistic farm systems, enhancing soil fertility, and maximizing land productivity while fostering ecological resilience. This workshop equipped me with practical skills to implement regenerative practices and contribute to sustainable land management initiatives.
Other Farming and Gardening Certificates and Classes
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Seed Saving for Organic Farmers, Dr. John Navazio, Evergreen State University, Washington
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Three-Day Biointensive Gardening Workshop with John Jeavons
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Stockman-Grass Farmer Grass-fed Production School with Allan Nation & Jim Gerrish; Charlottesville, Virginia
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Holistic Management Workshop-Water Flow & Keyline Cultivation, Bill Zeedyk; Circle Ranch, Van Horn, Texas
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Holistic Management Workshop, Brazos de Dios, Texas
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Keyline Practice Workshop with Owen Hablutzel, Waco, Texas