Column Name: Training Camp

Column Title: Going Organic

Written by: Kirk Layfield, MS, NREMT

Organic, we see the label on food everywhere these days, but exactly doe sit mean? I am glad you asked because that is our topic for training camp this month. Organic farming uses the earth’s natural resources for sustainability. It also emphasizes appropriate land management and aims to ecologically achieve the balance between animal life, the natural environment and food crops. Organic farmers do not use pesticides, herbicides, genetically modified foods, growth promoters or hormones. Organic meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. As a result, produce that is produced through organic farming is at its most natural form.

Let’s look at 10 reasons that may be a reason for you to consider making the switch to organic foods.

Number 1 is stringent standards. Organic certification is the public’s assurance that products have been grown and handled according to strict procedures without persistent toxic chemical inputs.

Number 2 is great taste. Its common sense –well balanced soils produce strong, healthy plants that become nourishing foods for people and animals which is exactly what most riders strive to be right?

Number 3 is reduced health risk. Many EPA approved pesticides were registered long before extensive research linked these chemicals to cancer and other diseases. Organic agriculture is one way to prevent any more of these chemicals form getting into the air, earth and water that sustain our life and future.

Number 4 is respect for our water resources. The elimination of polluting chemicals and nitrogen leaching, done in combination with soil building, protects and conserves water resources.

Number 5 is that it builds healthy soil. The soil we use to plant our crops is the foundation of our food chain. The primary focus of organic farming is to use practices that build healthy soils.

Number is 6 is that organic farming works in harmony with nature. Organic agriculture respects the balance demanded of a healthy ecosystem. Wildlife is encouraged by including forage crops in rotation and by retaining fence rows, wetlands and other natural areas.

Lucky number 7 is research. Organic farmers lead the way in the research department and largely at their own expense. Innovative on farm research aimed at reducing pesticide use and minimizing agriculture impact on the environment.

Number 8 is great and a little confusing, biodiversity. What is biodiversity? Basically what it means is the loss of a large variety of species, which is one of the most pressing environmental concerns. The good news is that organic farmers and gardeners have been collecting and preserving seeds and growing usual varieties for decades.

Number 9 keeps our rural communities healthy which could be important since most of our practice tracks are in the country. The USDA reported in 1997 that half of the US farm production from only 2% of the farms. Organic farming can be a lifeline for small farms because if offers an alternative market where sellers can command fair prices for the crops.

Number 10 is that organic agriculture is growing and there is an abundance of alternatives. These days almost all food categories have an organic alternative. The most unusual thing is that non food agricultural products are being grown organically as well, items such as cotton which most experts said could never be done.

Organic foods may or may not be for you, they are going to cost you a little more but such us the price we pay to be healthier. Give it a try you will very likely feel better and probably drop a couple of pounds in the process. Hope this info helps.

Questions, comments or ideas for topics you would like to see covered in training camp, send them my way. Klayfield@yahoo.com