
Organic farmers work in harmony
with nature
Organic agricultural 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.
Organic farms respect our water
resources
The elimination of polluting
chemicals and nitrogen leaching, done in combination with soil
building, protects and conserves water resources.
Organic farmers build healthy soil
Soil is the foundation of the
food chain. The primary focus of organic farming is to use practices
that build healthy soils.
Organic producers strive to
preserve diversity
The loss of a large variety
of species (biodiversity) is one of the most pressing environmental
concerns. The good news is that many organic farmers and gardeners
have been collecting and preserving seeds, and growing unusual
varieties for decades.
Organic production reduces health
risks
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 from getting into the
air, earth and water that sustain us.
Organic producers are leaders in
innovative research
Organic farmers have led the
way, largely at their own expense, with innovative on-farm research
aimed at reducing pesticide use and minimizing agriculture’s
impact on the environment.
Organic products meet 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.
Organic farming helps keep rural
communities healthy
USDA reported that in 1997,
half of U.S. farm production came from only 2% of farms. Organic
agriculture can be a lifeline for small farms because it offers an
alternative market where sellers can command fair prices for crops.
Organic food
tastes great!
It's common sense –
well-balanced soils produce strong, healthy plants that become
nourishing food for people and animals.
Organic abundance – Foods and
non-foods alike!
Now every food category has
an organic alternative. And non-food agricultural products are being
grown organically – even cotton, which most experts felt could not
be grown this way.
Source: The
Organic Trade Association
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