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Explore the differences between conventional and organic farming methods, including their impact on health and the environment. Discover why organic foods are pricier and the benefits of choosing organic products. Watch "My Father’s Garden" video to see firsthand the essence of organic farming. Get insights on how organic farming preserves soil health and biodiversity through natural fertilizers and pest control.
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Overview • Conventional Farming • Organic farming • Video: My Father’s Garden • The difference between conventional farming and organic farming • Why are organic foods more expensive?
Conventional Farming • 1940’s began farming with agri-chemicals • Fertilizer, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and rodenticides • 1972 Congress ordered the EPA to test all pesticides for potential health hazards. • All agri-chemicals can remain until EPA proves dangerous • 1990’s pesticide companies focus on genetic engineering • Using agri-chemicals is the predominate way food is grown in U.S. so it is now called “conventional” farming
Organic Farming • Based on : • Using natural, renewable fertilizer and pesticides • Compost, manure, Bt • Farming in a way that maintains and replenishes the life and nutrients in the soil. • The farmer feeds the living organisms in the soil. • Handful of organic soil – 5 billion microorganisms • Primary methods used: • Crop diversity • Crop rotation • Biological pest control
Organic Foods • Plants grown without conventional pesticides or fertilizers • Produced without genetically engineered seeds • Animals are fed organic feed and raised without use of antibiotics • Food processed without irradiation or food additives
“Eating is an environmental act.” Wendell Berry
