Organic Farming

What’s Different About Organic Farming?

The main difference between organic farming and conventional farming is that organic farming uses no synthetic pesticides, herbicides, hormones, or steroids. Food additives and GMOs are also excluded in organic farming. The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements says the following of organic farming:

“Organic agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. Organic agriculture combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved…”

—International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements

That means everything we do here is natural and healthy for the earth.

Organic vs. Certified Organic

There is a difference between organic and certified organic as well. Certified organic products must go through a lengthy process to become certified through the U.S. government. It requires years of inspections, paperwork, documentation, and fees. Many small farms may use organic practices but simply can not afford to be certified. So while your local farm stand may not have a big certified organic seal on it, it could very well be organically farmed. It is important to ask your farmer if they grow organic produce and raise organic meat.

Different Levels of Organic Certification

You may notice that there are different labels on store-bought food. This is because the USDA allows for three different levels of organic certification.

More Information on Organic Farming

Check out some of the following links to learn more about organic farming and certification:

• Organic Farming on Wikipedia
• Organic Certification on Wikipedia
• IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements)

Want to Get Involved?

• Appropedia: Food and Agriculture section
• WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms)
• Local Harvest