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.

Good enough to eat

by Ryan Deto Edible gardens provide fresh produce and unison with nature

Take a family 'haycation' on an Illinois farm

Kinnikinnick Farm is only 85 miles northwest of Chicago, but it feels like another world and another time. Our old-fashioned tent had no electricity, just oil lamps and candles. When we were ready to turn our freshly laid eggs into omelets, we first had to feed the wood-burning stove with logs. It couldn't have been more different than modern-day city life.

Intern shot in drive-by on wrong house

A college intern for the Southwest Workers' Union was injured early Sunday after alleged gang members shot at the wrong house.

It's just a few steps from garden to her kitchen and dinner table

Ridgefield resident JoAnn Kish shows how to grow and use garlic scapes. / News-Times RIDGEFIELD -- With her leeks and Swiss chard growing by the bushel in the hot summer sun last week, JoAnn Kish was able to pluck enough of the leafy greens to whip up a leek and Swiss chard tart.

Local farmers markets growing - Wed, 07 Jul 2010 PST

The summer sun has brought out a few more local farmers markets. At One World Café, 1804 E. Sprague Ave., PEACH Community Farm will be selling local, organic produce each Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. through the first week in October. Extra produce from the cafés garden also will be sold.