Learn About Organic Farming versus Conventional Farming

Posted by Jamie McIntosh May 26, 2009

This weekend we attended my husband’s family reunion, and many of the activities took place on a 3000-acre farm in western Kansas. My sons were in heaven, exploring empty grain bins, climbing over dormant combines and tractors, and scrutinizing the juxtaposition of modern equipment against relics like icehouses and antique blacksmithing tools. This farm didn’t have a whisper of organic practices, and I wouldn’t have wanted to make our 76-year old host feel uncomfortable by questioning his farming methods.

Our visit did increase my respect for this difficult and necessary profession. Regardless of the methods used, I feel that one must have a deep-seated calling to endure the hardships of farming. All farmers face the same determined insect pests and indifferent whims of Mother Nature. Fifty-five years ago, my husband’s uncle didn’t have a market that valued organic produce. He did what was necessary to feed his family, and that meant conventional farming. I am grateful that today agricultural innovations and health-minded consumers allow farmers more choices about the way they tend the earth.