Moving into Organic Farming Lifestyles

Is it possible for every farm in not only the United States but perhaps in the world to switch over to organic farming lifestyles? While the impact on human health would be fantastic, the indications that the transition time for farms might be as long as five years depending on the current level of chemicals used. Some organic farming lifestyles have taken on a subculture of their own, exposing entire neighborhoods and neighboring towns to the wonderful effects of organic farming. Organic co-ops have been proven successful if not a little reminiscent of commune living.

Much of today's research indicates that traditional farms can start weaning into an organic farming lifestyle now and see an initial drop in profits while the methods are studied and applied. This initial drop might be as long as five years with the average time span ranging in the one to two year time frame. When livestock in particular has been exposed to a high level of potentially dangerous material the adjustment time needed to start producing normal levels of hormones derived from their own body. Many people do not realize the immediate consequences and are pushing for an all organic country.

For our health, for the health of our children and grandchildren, moving into organic farming lifestyles would be tremendously beneficial. However, if we mandated a law and expected these changes would occur over a short period of time, the initial loss may be enough to cause a food shortage within the United States.

There are however, a great many farms that are voluntarily moving into organic farming lifestyles for the benefit of not only their farms but also their pocketbooks. Organic foods cost more to produce, and thus cost more at the market. Some farmers believe that organic farming is the key to sustaining farming throughout the next century. Farms are generally financed to the brink, and they need every penny per pound that they can get. When the food prices increase (such as when the consumer is willing to pay twice and often three times the going rate for produce) then the farms are in a much better financial positions. Add into the equation the positive effects on the environment and the farm's direct environment, and it seems that farmers who are willing to move into organic farming are more likely to find longevity among their trade.

The impact of organic food is being noticed by the consumer, the farmer, the trade, and the American Food and Drug Administration. Thus far farming methods that drop the chemical dependant nature that many farms are still undergoing have proven to be a significantly positive role in our culture and our industries. Moving into organic farming might very well be the key to long term farming success.

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STILLWATER — John’s Farm represents four generations of farming history which have taken pride in organic farming techniques. Located in Fairview, owners John and Kris Gosney are both descendants of Oklahoma farming pioneers and maintain family Oklahoma Centennial Farms.