What is Organic Farmers Edition

Transcription

1 What is Organic Farmers Edition

2 Published by Certified Organic Associations of British Columbia This project is funded in part through the Agri-Food Futures Fund, Emerging Sectors Initiative, a provincial trust funded from money under the former federal-provincial Safety Nets Framework. The program is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC Printed in Canada

3 What is organic agriculture? 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 1 What is Organic - Farmers Edition

4 What are the benefits of farming organically? For the earth? The chemical synthesis of nitrogen fertilizer is the largest source of greenhouse gases in agriculture. In organic production, nitrogen-rich crops are grown and returned to the soil, to provide biological rather than synthetic fertility. Organic producers use biological and cultural methods of pest control as their first line of defence. Only as a last resort do they turn to a very limited list of products that are, or mimic, naturally occurring pesticides. In addition, organic farms tend to have a greater diversity of plants, insects, and birds, enriching our world. For farmers? Farmers often become organic over some sort of incident someone they love gets a chemical related disease; their partners challenge them to come clean ; they can t afford their agrochemical bills; they come to resent the role of corporate agriculture in their livelihoods. For all these reasons, organic agriculture appeals to them. Once they make the switch, they are often surprised 2 Certified Organic Associations of British Columbia

5 greater engagement and fun in planning the farm system. They find the challenge of avoiding agronomic problems through planning more exciting than simply applying a recommended chemical to make the problems go away. Organic methods result in healthier and safer landscapes for them and their family and more resilient systems that cope better with weather weirdness and market disruptions. They also earn the gratitude of their customers. For consumers? Organic consumption continues to grow. Since 1990 consumption has risen on average by 20% per year. Consumers appreciate food produced without toxic persistent pesticides and genetically modified organisms; they consider it healthier for them, their families and their communities. For my bank balance? Once consumers are onside, the economics usually sort themselves out. Organic production is a way of differentiating product in the marketplace. Most certified organic products are seen as premium quality, and thus gain a premium in the marketplace. While labour costs may be higher in organic production, other input costs are general reduced. Reliance on the agrochemical industry is also reduced. 3 What is Organic - Farmers Edition

6 What would I have to do? How can I give up fertilizers? Soil fertility can be achieved by means other than synthetic NPK fertilizers. Organic techniques encourage the life within the soil to provide the nutrient cycling. Green manures, composted animal manures and sound crop rotations feed the soil. What about the weeds? Weeds are a natural part of the environment, and organic producers often find they have to give up their notions of weed-free fields. That doesn t mean that weeds are given free rein. Weed management techniques include rotations, green manures, tillage, grazing, and so much more. Critics suggest that tillage will destroy the soil, but scientists are finding that systems with good organic matter, green manures and a diversity of soil organisms can withstand increased tillage with less damage. Many people find that once the nitrogen levels are no longer excessive, the weed growth is less rank. 4 Certified Organic Associations of British Columbia

7 What about pests? Pest problems are usually the result of one or a few species getting out of balance, escaping the natural predators and diseases that normally keep it in check. Organic systems encourage a diversity of organisms, in balanced ecological communities. Organic producers focus on choosing appropriate crops and varieties to reduce pest problems. What about my livestock? Organic agriculture fosters animal health and well being, by reducing stress and providing adequate space, appropriate organic food, and the opportunity to socialize. Livestock production is a vital component of an organic mixed farm, and brings benefits in terms of weed management, fertility, diversity, and economic stability. 5 What is Organic - Farmers Edition

8 How do I begin? Using COABC s searchable directory, or the Young Agrarians U-Map find an organic farmer and have a chat. You may be surprised at what you discover. COABC s website offers a variety of information, including the rules for organics, and contacts for further information. The organic movement Members of the organic community came together to provide and connect with delicious, nutritious, and sustainable food food that nurtures people, soils, plants and animals, and that protects workers and communities. Join the organic community, contribute your voice and your passion, and make the world a better place a few acres at a time. 6 Certified Organic Associations of British