Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
Organic Farming
Fights Global Warming
By George DeVault organic matter, thus releasing carbon into
In the beginning, back in the spring of the atmosphere instead of retaining it in the
1981, scientists at what is now the Rodale soil system. Findings show that organic
®
Institute set out to answer two questions grain production systems increase soil car- Rodale research technician, Dave Wilson, pres-
that have plagued agriculture: bon 15 to 28% and soil nitrogen by 8 to ents results at the recent field day.
1. Why do yields often drop when 15%. However, conventional farming trials soils have larger biological systems of mych-
farmers quit chemicals and switch to showed no significant increases in either orrhiza fungi, from the absence of chemical
organic farming? over the same period. fertilizers and pesticides.
2. What can be done about it? Soil microbial activity, specifically mych- Before forests and grasslands were con-
Rodale answered both questions. But as orrhiza fungi, also has an important role in verted to field agriculture, soil organic mat-
often happens when science relentlessly soil aggregate formation with clay and other ter generally comprised 6 to 10% of the soil
pursues the truth, there also came an unex- minerals, to retain carbon in the soil. mass, well over the 1 to 3% levels typical of
pected discovery that promises to benefit Microbes (mychorrhiza fungi) produce a today’s agricultural systems.
humankind, now and for all generations glue-like substance called “glomalin” that Agricultural and forest sequestration of
ahead. locks these elements in the soil. USDA sci- nutrients, namely carbon and nitrogen in
“Organic farming is a viable part of the entist, David Douds along with Rodale soil organic matter, can help derail climatic
solution to global warming,” Anthony researchers point to the fact that organic Continued on page 8
Rodale, chairman of the nonprofit Rodale
Institute, said Oct. 10 in releasing the latest
Rodale research at a field day at the Insti-
tute’s experimental farm near Maxatawny,
PA.
PASAfists in High Places:
From the mysteries of the soil to green- Profiles of Cheryl Cook and Dan Desmond
house gas emissions may seem like a giant By Michele Gauger
leap. It is not. Simply put, Rodale’s 23 sea- When the smoke finally cleared from last year’s gubernatorial election and sub-
sons of research show that organic farming sequent transfer of political power in Pennsylvania, we were astounded to find that
is a powerful atmospheric scrubber. Diverse two distinguished members of PASA had ascended to unexpected vantage points,
crops, especially legume hay, suck carbon as deputy secretaries of their respective departments in the Rendell Administration.
and nitrogen out of the air. Scientists call By any measure, this is a major plus for family farmers throughout the common-
the process “carbon sequestration”, and they wealth, and we decided to celebrate by introducing them and their priorities to
refer to the soil as a “carbon sink.” Farmers other members as quickly as possible.
and gardeners know it simply as soil organ- As is well known, issues of industrial farming, the plight of small farmers and
ic matter — free plant food. the desire for better environmental stewardship are on the forefront of many dis-
So why are organic soils better at carbon cussions in Pennsylvania. This large and diverse state is also the site for many
sequestration than conventionally farmed important innovations involving agriculture relating to renewable energy systems,
soils? The answer lies in the application of research into carbon sequestration (see Rodale article above) and models for local
fertilizers and soil microbes. food system networks. Now more than ever, we must join Continued on page 20
Soluble nitrogen fertilizers rapidly decay
Contents
Pennsylvania Association Fall 2003
for Sustainable Agriculture
114 West Main Street 1 Organic Farming Fights Global Warming
P.O. Box 419 PASAfists in High Places
Millheim PA 16854
Phone: (814) 349-9856 • Fax: (814) 349-9840 3 Raw Milk — Laying the Groundwork for the Future
Website: www.pasafarming.org
Passages STAFF & OFFICE 4 Director’s Corner: Science Technology, and the Pursuit of Efficiency
Guest Editor: Michele Gauger 5 PASA-tively Speaking: Board President’s Corner
Layout: C Factor
6 Harvest Celebration Dinner: The Sweet Taste of Success!
Advertising Sales: Michele Gauger,
PASA office, michele@pasafarming.org 9 Allegheny College Tastes Bounty from Local Farms
10 Farming for the Future Conference
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Kim Miller, Westmoreland County 13 A Picture Perfect End to Another Field Day Season
Vice President: Kim Tait, Centre County
14 Regional Marketing—Southwest
Secretary: Lyn Garling, Centre County
Treasurer: Chris Fullerton, Huntingdon County 15 Regional Marketing—Southeast
Mary Barbercheck, Centre County 16 Business Member Profile: Jim Amory of LeRaysville Cheese Factory
David Bingaman, Dauphin County
George DeVault, Lehigh County
17 New Business Members
Mena Hautau, Berks County Farm Show 2004
John Hopkins, Columbia County 19 The Junior PASA Page
John Jamison, Westmoreland County
Dave Johnson, Tioga County 22 The Grapevine: Editor’s Corner
Don Kretschmann, Beaver County 24 Opportunities and Classified Ads
Brian Moyer, Berks County
Anthony Rodale, Berks County 26 Calendar of Events
Kim Seeley, Bradford County 27 Volunteers
Sustainable Ag Leadership Award Reminder
PASA STAFF
Headquarters 28 Book Reviews
Brian Snyder 29 Pennsylvania Sustainable Baskets for the Holidays
Executive Director
brian@pasafarming.org
31 PASA Membership/Contribution Form
Lauren Smith
Director of Development
& Membership Programs Passages Fall 2003 Contributors
lauren@pasafarming.org WRITERS: Chris Crytzer, George DeVault, David Eson, Lyn Garling, Michele Gauger, Steve Gilman,
Heather House Heather House, Maggie Fry-Manross, Kim Miller, Gayle Morrow, Brian Moyer, Eric Nordell, Sally Roe,
Farm-to-School Program Coordinator Lauren Smith, Brian Snyder, and Ruth Sullivan.
heather@pasafarming.org PHOTOGRAPHERS: Heather House, Brian Snyder.
Michele Gauger
Member Program Assistant PASA’s Mission is… PASA in the News
michele@pasafarming.org
Promoting profitable farms which Have you seen articles about PASA in your local news-
Brandi Marks papers or other media? PASA is active across the state,
Office Coordinator/Bookkeeper produce healthy food for all people while
respecting the natural environment. and we’d love to know what coverage we are getting
brandi@pasafarming.org
in your area. Please clip any articles you see on PASA
PASA is an organization as diverse as the Pennsylvania
Regional Offices and mail them to our Millheim headquarters to the
landscape. We are seasoned farmers who know that
attention of Office Coordinator Brandi Marks.
Ruth Sullivan sustainability is not only a concept, but a way of life.
Director of Southeast Programs We are new farmers looking for the fulfillment of land
Phone: 717-917-3731 Do you have a great
stewardship. We are students and other consumers,
ruth@pasafarming.org article idea for Passages?
anxious to understand our food systems and the
Want to share a farming practice with members? We’d
David Eson choices that must be made. We are families and chil-
Director of Southwest Programs love to hear from you. Please contact the newsletter
dren, who hold the future of farming in our hands.This
Phone: 412-997-2343 staff at newsletter@ pasafarming.org.
is an organization that is growing in its voice on behalf
david@pasafarming.org of farmers in Pennsylvania and beyond. Our mission is Deadline for Winter Issue: November 26, 2003.
achieved, one voice, one farm, one strengthened com-
munity at a time.
Passages is printed with soy inks on recycled, chlorine-free paper
2
Public Policy Partnerships
3
Director’s Corner
4
PASA-tively Speaking
Board President’s Corner
5
What’s up with your organization?
6
The night would not have been possible with-
out our distinguished chefs (above and right).
Thanks Chef Mike Ditchfield (at podium above)
and students of the School of Hospitality.
7
Organic Farming Fights Global Warming
Continued from page 1
changes influenced by rising greenhouse
In a cubic foot of good productive soil one can find
gas emissions. According to climatic the pattern of the laws which govern the universe —
change models, agriculture could be seri-
ously affected by global warming, as an laws before which political ideologies, manipulations
estimated 20% of potential food crop pro-
duction is lost each year due to weather
of currency, short cuts, and all manner of man-made
patterns. dodges become singularly silly and puerile.
The data comes from the Farming Sys-
tem Trial (FST), the longest comparison
— Louis Bromfield, “Malabar Farm,” 1948
of organic and conventional corn-soybean n 431 million acres — all of the crop- ing them to broader markets and applica-
grain farming systems, while continuously land in the United States — going organ- tions, while also considering further
monitoring soil carbon and nitrogen lev- ic equals 158,177,000 cars taken off the research. Are there ways to accelerate the
els. Comparisons of three farming sys- road (more than half the national fleet) or formation of organic material in soil, pre-
tems: a conventional cash-grain system; an 1.98 trillion miles not driven. dict rates of carbon and other nutrient
organic system using animals; and an “Organic farming is an essential tool in sequestration? Other questions lie in pos-
organic system without animals, were tackling air pollution,” Pennsylvania sible production of manufactured soils for
originally intended as a five-year experi- Environmental Protection Secretary Kath- expanded applications to mine lands or
ment, on a leased 15-acre field adjacent to leen McGinty said at the Rodale farm. conservation areas.
the Rodale farm. The field was farmed “Carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases are The Rodale Institute will also be con-
conventionally with corn and soybeans for the lifeblood of our economy. The envi- sidering organic soil management prac-
the previous 20 years. As FST results grew ronment and economy come together in tices, which could ultimately lead to
more valuable, Rodale leased the field for agriculture.” landowners participating in carbon and
a second five-year term, and then bought Also in attendance was Pennsylvania nutrient trading markets. These markets
the land in 1991. Secretary of Agriculture Dennis Wolff. He would provide a financial incentive to
“Studies show an average increase in echoed McGinty’s optimism, saying that adopt organic soil management practices.
soil carbon of about 1,000 pounds per recent growth in organic farming is being Presentation of the FST could have
acre-foot of soil, or about 3,500 pounds of driven by strong consumer demand for profound implications to the future of
carbon dioxide per acre-foot per year more environmentally friendly foods. agriculture, climate change and protection
sequestered. If multiplied over the 160 “This presents a significant opportuni- of natural resources. In noting this trend,
million acres of corn and soybeans pro- ty for Pennsylvania farmers, since they are US Secretary of Agriculture, Ann Vene-
duced nationally, 580 billion pounds of within one day’s drive of half the popula- man said, “The technologies and practices
carbon dioxide could potentially be tion in the United States and 60 percent that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and
sequestered using existing low-input of the population in Canada,” he added. increase carbon sequestration also address
organic farming techniques,” said an Rodale is teaming up with the two conservation objectives, such as improv-
Institute press release. state agencies to study future possibilities ing water and air quality and enhancing
What does that mean in plain English? and implications for organic farming in wildlife habitat. This is good for the envi-
Just one 320-acre farm going organic the fight against global warming. ronment and good for agriculture.”
equals 117 cars taken off of the road or “Healthy Soil, Healthy Food, Healthy But what of the original FST ques-
1,462,500 miles not driven, said Chris People” is the motto of the Rodale Insti- tions? Rodale research is clear:
Hill and Greg Bowman, editors at tute. Next year, the Institute will put that After years of conventional cropping,
Rodale’s NewFarm.org website. A typical belief to the test by starting a 4-year feed- soil organic matter levels are perilously
passenger car emits an estimated 10,000 ing trial of laboratory rats eating grain low. When crops are suddenly planted
pounds of carbon dioxide a year, accord- from conventional and organic plots in without added fertility, depleted soil can’t
ing to the U.S. Environmental Protection the FST. provide adequate nutrition. Yields plum-
Agency. Assuming that a car travels All FST plots were planted to oats in met, especially with a hungry crop such as
12,500 miles a year, here is what New 2003. “Oats from the organic systems corn.
Farm’s further calculations show: were consistently higher in zinc, man- When switching to an organic system,
n 160 million acres — all of the con- ganese, boron and iron,” said Paul Hep- don’t start with corn. Plant legumes or
ventional corn and soybean land in the perly, the Institute’s research manager. small grains to both build soil and control
United States — going organic equals “We feel that bodes well for showing the weeds. After two years of legume hay, the
58.7 million cars taken off of the road (25 differences in its nutritional value.” soil will produce a profitable corn crop
percent of the total national fleet) or So what’s the next step? Knowledge without purchased inputs or undue sacri-
733.75 billion miles not driven. transfer. Taking Rodale’s results and relat- fice in terms of yield.
8
Farm-to-School Program
Bounty from Local Farms “I wasn’t aware of the way farmers were
struggling against globalization. It’s
opened my eyes and made me more
By Maggie Fry-Manross aware.”
Allegheny College students, faculty “I would like to see them use more
and friends tasted the bounty of Crawford organic food,” said student Nicholas
County, PA at a special dinner featuring Molinaro, “It’s healthier.” Molinaro was
locally-produced foods. Food service particularly impressed by McCullough’s
workers prepared for 925 diners using Ice Cream, and he wasn’t alone. The ice
meats, dairy products and produce from cream line extended half way around the
around the region. dining room.
The menu featured steak soup, Chi- “I think the student response has been
nese cabbage crisp, parslied potatoes, fantastic,” said Nicky Mason, a member
baked acorn squash, baked chicken, Ital- of the planning committee. “Student sup-
ian sausage sandwich with peppers and port is critical for this to become an ongo-
onions, burgers, salads, baked apples and ing effort.”
ice cream. No one is quite sure what the next step
The local foods dinner began as the will be. “We need to sit down and sort it
senior thesis project of Desiree Pegg. In Charles Gilbert, Executive Chef for Sodexho
out,” Simco said. “The next step will cer-
the winter of 2003, Pegg approached Food Services at Allegheny. tainly be easier than the first one.”
Environmental Studies Associate Professor Copyright, Meadville Tribune, 2003, all
Eric Pallant with an idea to study the fea- renovation this year. Another snag was the rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.
sibility of incorporating locally-grown health department requirements. “It’s a
products into the food services system at little different from what you can sell at a
Allegheny College. She formed a commit- roadside stand,” Simco said. “Many local
tee to study the question and asked Envi- producers can sell to the general public,
ronmental Studies Associate Professor but not to restaurants.” Producers have to
Jennifer DeHart to serve on it, as well as undergo a federal inspection before they
Nicky Mason of the French Creek Project can sell to restaurants and institutions.
and Food Services Director Ron Simco. There is also a question of liability
Pegg then graduated and joined the Peace insurance, which puts selling to institu-
Corps. But Pegg got the ball rolling and tions out of the reach of most small farm-
the committee pressed on with what ers. DeHart is working with some local
became an increasingly complicated producers who are interested in forming a
undertaking. co-op to help them meet some of these
The first obstacle to holding a dinner requirements. Heather Mikulas tosses an apple at
for 925 people was the fact that one of The students enjoyed sampling the Slippery Rock University.
Allegheny’s three dining halls is closed for local foods and expressed support for the On October 6, Slippery Rock
University held a local food lunch
featuring produce from PLOW (Penn-
sylvania Local and Organic Works).
Heather Mikulus from the Macoskey
9
Farming for the Future Conference
10
KEYNOTERS… Mittal’s global knowledge stems from
her formal training as a political scientist
Mittal’s articles dealing with issues of
sustainability on a global scale, centered
in India and England. She has also been a on issues of trade, women in develop-
Continued from previous page visiting scholar at UC Berkeley and has ment, economic and human rights and
taught at the New College of San Francis- food security have appeared in major
issues that face agriculture. For sustainable
co and Dominican College of San Rafael.
farmers and businessmen who choose to newspapers nationwide. She has also
Mittal’s other work includes coordinating
be “ecologically and socially accountable” authored several works related to these
but are told their practices make for the national campaign, Economic Human
topics and served as co-editor of the book,
unsound business, Hawken delivers a Rights: The Time Has Come! Through this
campaign, Mittal was able to organize sev- America Needs Human Rights. Mittal’s
message based on experience and savvy message will resonate strongly with con-
business management skills. eral Congressional hearings focusing on
growing hunger and poverty issues, as well sumers and farmers alike who seek to
as increasing losses of family farms in the rebuild local food systems from the farm
Anuradha Mittal
Closing keynoter United States. up.
Anuradha Mittal, a
native of India, is cur- HELP PASA THROUGH A SILENT AUCTION DONATION
rently the Co-Director February 2003 set the stage for a successful Silent Auction tradition for the
of the Food First/Insti-
PASA Conference! Great excitement was generated at the auction tables last Feb-
tute for Food and Devel-
opment Policy, a leading progressive think ruary — guests bid on a unique array of items including original art, weekend get-
tank and education-for-action center aways, creative food packages, autographed books, a timber frame building, a CSA
focusing on food as a human right. The subscription, and more! Help us assemble some terrific items to be auctioned off
Institute’s work is aiming to reshape our for 2004. It’s a great way to contribute to the cause. If you have contributions for the
global food system, in efforts to make it Silent Auction, we would love to hear from you. Contact Lauren Smith at the PASA
more socially just and environmentally
headquarters.
sustainable.
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Eli M. Reiff 570-966-0769
922 Conley Road • Mifflinburg, PA 17844
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11
Raw Milk… records and monitor sanitation. McLean
pointed out that he and the PDA are very
willing to help and work with producers.
Fellow PDA Milk Sanitary and Super-
Continued from page 3 visor for Regions 5 & 6, Roy Malik,
Company, LLC produces the only certi- detailed the current raw milk permitting
fied organic raw milk in the USA that is process in Pennsylvania. He reports to be
shelf legal. processing 2–3 permits per week. (There
Mark’s presentation focused on the are currently 42 permits issued in the
health benefits and safety of raw milk. state, 6 new permits pending and 40
OPDC sells raw milk products such as requests) The permits are available at no
milk, butter, cream and colostrum all over cost, but other costs stem from tests that
the country and around the world. are required to receive the permit
McAfee stated that human pathogens gen- These tests required include:
Bobby McLean addresses the crowd.
erally cannot grow in clean raw milk and • Annual tests of TB and Brucellosis
in fact it is pasteurization that inactivates • Johne’s test and program Busko, MD. This well-rounded panel
safety mechanisms, which can trigger • Twice a year tests on water answered questions from the audience and
pathogen growth. Lactoperoxidase, lacto- • A monthly milk test (standard plate, gave various viewpoints and insights on
ferrin, fatty acids and other active ele- choloform, growth inhibitors, and the issue.
ments keep raw milk safe and provide somatic cell count). This test must also Tim Wightman discussed briefly how
healthful benefits. be conducted through a state moni- he setup his LLC company. He suggested
OPDC’s safety principles include: tored lab. calling your state securities office or a
• Batched production runs Two types of raw milk permits exist in lawyer familiar with securities. This led to
• Frequent testing PA. 1) Customer Container Permit: the a question about liability insurance, and
• Milk chilled rapidly to below 38 customer brings his or her own container Tim pointed out that an LLC may save
degrees & continuously kept cold to the farm to be filled. Malik did caution your farm because an insurance company
• Milk & processing equipment is kept against use of plastic containers. Plastic is will go for your property.
clean difficult to clean. Instead, he recommends When asked about whom their cus-
Their cows are free from antibiotics, using glass containers. This permit also tomers are, Tim and Mark both said they
raised on pasture and are kept in a clean, requires that all sales be at the farm. 2) cover a wide demographic and touted the
low stress environment. They use a mobile Prefilled Container Permit: requires a sep- power of word of mouth advertising. For
milking barn outfitted with industry stan- arate room for filler and capper equip- Tim, once he reached 85 customers,
dard equipment to take the milking to the ment but the milk can be sold anywhere things just snowballed.
cows. Mark sees their niche as an answer within Pennsylvania. Roy Malik cautioned that a majority of
to NAFTA (North American Free Trade Permitting regulations for small rumi- new raw milk licensed producers go out of
Agreement). They have 100% of the nants, such as sheep and goats also fall business within 1 to 2 years, which reflects
organic raw dairy product market in the under the same regulations as cows. How- just how difficult dairy farming can be.
Pacific rim. Mark says they are creating a ever, there is an exemption for one cow. If But Jerry Brunetti pointed out that the
product that really is what it says it is and you have only one cow, you do not fall times are changing, for the last 50 years
stresses that we in Pennsylvania have the under any regulation. Roy Malik had high food was viewed as a necessary evil, but
groundwork to make progress here in this praise for raw milk producers that he now more and more people are looking
state. works with. He also mentioned that there for farm fresh food alternatives such as
Bobby McLean, Director of the PDA has only been one case of illness in PA raw milk.
Bureau of Food Safety and Laboratory with possible ties to raw milk since the As the day was winding up, there
Services, wants to ensure the product is permitting process began. seemed to be a feeling that this was a step
safe. McLean stated that he has received Malik also detailed some of the inven- forward. A step towards an understanding
lots of letters regarding the recent raw tive ways some goat producers handled on every side and a future where the play-
milk controversy. He also pointed out that the pressure their customers were placing ing field has been leveled, allowing con-
PDA will not prevent the sale of raw milk on them for various raw milk products sumers the freedom to choose the kind of
to anyone, but wants to be sure raw milk that couldn’t be sold legally. The goat milk food they wish to eat, and farmers the
is safe and was happy to have this open producers got together and created a freedom to farm the way they and their
forum to clarify the PDA’s position. recipe book on how to make items such as customers want them to. We are going
McLean continued to say that “The cheese, yogurt and ice cream, while some forward, but you can see we have a long
PDA must enforce current regulations even gave a discount on milk if they pur- way to go and miles before we sleep. I
that were put into law in 1935.” Their chased multiple gallons. wonder…If we use Bossy the cow in
main concern is that producers go The afternoon panel discussion also PASA’s logo, can PASA start selling raw
through the raw milk permitting process. included comment from Jerry Brunetti milk under the one cow exemption? Just a
This will allow the state to maintain from Agri Dynamics and Dr. Carlton thought.
12
Farm-Based Education Program
13
Regional Marketing — Southwest
14
Regional Marketing — Southeast
15
Membership
16
Continued from previous page those people are forced into cities. People
other things become more important than are designed to live in communities, and BUSINESS MEMBERS
cash flow. There have been other civiliza- they have to find a meaningful place in ARE IMPORTANT TO PASA!
tions that did not know how to deal with society. Farmers are being lectured about PASA Business Members play a key role in
the destruction of the soil. You have to too much production, too many cows. the Association. These farms and busi-
have people on the land who are familiar People who are ashamed of their abilities nesses are committed to working with
with it, and that means keeping people on do not fight well for their rights. We need other progressive members of the busi-
the land. Certain attitudes in a lot of to raise the self-confidence (of farmers) ness community in the struggle to pro-
farmers and farm organizations about the that what they’re doing is important. tect and preserve Pennsylvania farmers
fewer people on the land the better is just and farmland.
poison. There are social benefits to small n What do you see as the connection New Business Members
communities and I am a believer in com- between sustainable agriculture and the Fall 2003
munities. consumer? EverPower Global
n What do you see as some of the criti- It’s pretty clear from the farm stand- Corporation
cal issues facing agriculture and ag-relat- point that farmers are getting short- New York, NY
ed businesses today? changed by this food system. If it (the McGinnis Sisters
It is the marketing and processing sys- system) would be content with a reason- Special Food Stores
tem, but mostly the marketing and able rate of profit, prices would go down Pittsburgh, PA
monopolization of it. Half of the world’s and people would buy more. We have
Spring Run Natural Foods
population are peasants, and as the so- really got to start dealing with the whole Kennett Square, PA
called free trade barriers are broken down, issue of monopoly in this country.
Name ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................
n Yes, I will help staff the PASA booth at the 2003 PA Farm Show
n I am available only the dates/times indicated below
n I can help and am flexible. Let me know when you need me
n Sorry, I can’t help this year, but I’d like to volunteer in the future
17
Southwest… full color Buy Fresh/Buy Local logo for producers who have contacted me regard-
southeastern PA. We are looking for farms, ing the pastured products directory, I am
Continued from page 14
n–Grass-Based Networks — Farmers
restaurants, food coops, farmers’ markets, still looking for more folks to include. If you
CSA’s, and small independent grocery raise beef, poultry, pork, or lamb on grass, or
and consumers unite! Grass farmers look-
stores in the SE to join our campaign in sell milk, cheese, eggs or yogurt from grass
ing for direct marketing opportunities for
2004. If you become a campaign partici- fed animals, I want to include you in the
their pastured products, please give me a
pant, we will include you in our expanded directory. If you are a consumer, contact me
call. Hey consumers, want a lean meat, rich-
Local Food Guide and website (www.buylo- and I will be happy to send you a copy.
flavored milk, or real eggs produced locally?
calpa.org) and provide materials such as Let’s Work Together
Call me for farmers in your area raising
point of purchase cards, bumper stickers, I want to hear from you. Contact: Ruth
grass-fed products.
and graphics for advertising. Sullivan, Director of Southeast Programs,
n–Pastured Products Directory: Thank
Let’s Work Together
PASA, PO Box 755, Kimberton, PA 19442;
I want to hear from you. Please contact:
you to the pastured meat, poultry and dairy 717-917-3731; ruth@pasafarming.org.
David Eson, Director of Southwest Pro-
grams 412-997-2343, david@pasafarming
.org
Southeast…
Continued from page 15
601 Westtown Rd, Suite 370, in West
Chester. The meeting will focus on Chester
County restaurants that want to buy locally.
If you are a farmer or a restaurant
owner/chef interested in participating, let
me know.
n–Buy Fresh/Buy Local Campaign: By
now most of you have seen our beautiful,
18
BALD EAGLES
By Sally Roe
In the last few months, bald eagles have been sited in our part of
Pennsylvania, the Endless Mountains of north central Pennsylvania,
near the New York border. A friend saw one as she was driving
along a road and my son and I saw one as we were driving along a
major local road, Route 14. Since they usually live near bodies of water
we wondered why they were here. It turns out that there are nesting
pairs near a large reservoir west of us. As we approached, the eagle
was in the middle of the road and took off with a large piece of what
looked like road kill hanging from his talons. Since we knew eagles pre-
ferred fish, we wondered what else they might be eating so far from
their homes and so we did some investigating!
WHAT DO EAGLES EAT? you might be able to sleep in it, but your with DDT, or when they came in contact
They eat fish — more than half of mattress might be softer. with DDT in other ways, they were not
their diet. Fish are eaten either live or They can live for thirty years or more. able to absorb and use calcium. This
fresh. In addition, they eat birds and meant that the eggs they laid had thin
DID YOU KNOW…
small mammals — either live or fresh. shells and often broke before they could
The bald eagle was chosen as our
Dead animals found and eaten are called hatch. The eagle population declined. In
national bird in 1782. But Benjamin
“carrion.” Our eagle had most likely 1972, DDT was outlawed. This has helped
Franklin favored another Pennsylvania
found a victim of Route 14’s traffic, for
native, the wild turkey, as our national the eagles recover.
its dinner.
bird. He thought its habit of living Since sustainable agriculture, the
HOW BIG ARE THEY together in flocks was a better symbol type which PASA encourages, attempts
AND WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE? of the UNITED States than the solitary to control pests in ways that do not
This bird looked enormous — its eagle. What would you think of having the harm the environment, it supports the
wingspan looked almost as wide as the turkey on quarters and dollar bills? efforts to return endangered species
width of our car. On investigation we like the bald eagle to Pennsylvania. By
found that they can be up to fourteen SUSTAINABLE
AGRICULTURE CAN HELP THEM farming and gardening without pesti-
pounds and have a wingspan of up to
After World War II, many farmers cides, you can help to create an environ-
seven feet! Sometimes you may see one
started using a chemical known as DDT ment healthy for eagles and for other
and not know it is a bald eagle. Only
to control crop pests and improve crop endangered species! Ask your parents
mature bald eagles have the white,
“bald,” head. Younger eagles, start out production. Unfortunately, when eagles how they farm and garden without using
dark brown all over and may have varying ate prey which had eaten crops treated chemicals harmful to the environment.
amounts of white in the brown. At five
years they are adults and have the ACTIVITY: Can you unscramble the names of
“bald” head. these birds which are endangered in Pennsylvania?
OTHER INTERESTING FACTS ROPYES
Their eyesight is five times as keen _ _ _ _ _ _
as a human’s. Since they need to be able
to see further than the middle shelf of N I P R E E G E R C L O FA N
the refrigerator at dinner time, this is a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
good thing.
Their nests are made of sticks and STEAL TINTREB
may be lined with grass and moss. Since _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
they are five feet wide and two feet high,
19
PASAfists in High Places…
Continued from page 1 beyond food systems. Desmond says,
forces and find allies in the quest for cre- “Farmers in PA face many challenges and
ating a sustainable agricultural system. it is important to look at practices that
Judging by recent interviews with will have economic benefits to farmers
Cheryl Cook, Deputy Secretary for Mar- and benefit the environment at the same
keting, Promotion and Program Service at time. Sustainable farming techniques can
the PA Department of Agriculture (PDA) be beneficial to all farmers by helping to
and Dan Desmond, Deputy Secretary of increase crop yields while decreasing ener-
the Office of Energy and Technology gy, fuel and irrigation costs.”
Development with the PA Department of Cook feels that sustainable agriculture
Environmental Protection (DEP), those in the future will be turning to renewable
involved with agriculture in Pennsylvania energy resources. “Renewable energy has
have two allies in Harrisburg, helping to huge market potential for Pennsylvania
Dan Desmond and Cheryl Cook at the Rodale
ensure that the state’s farming heritage farmers.” She continues to say, “Energy as
Institute Field Systems Trial Presentation.
and richly diverse environment are both a farm product could increase revenues, or
preserved for years to come. at least decrease costs on many farms.” working with researchers from the Rodale
Discussions with Cook and Desmond One new program aimed at developing Institute relating to organic soils. This
centered on several issues. This dialogue these renewable resources is the DEP’s research has focused on soils with high
gave insight into the personalities of these Energy Harvest Program. The Energy levels of humic and fulvic acids that have
two allies and offered information on new Harvest Program was developed to the ability to increase nutrients and absorb
programs at the PDA and DEP, results of encourage cleaner and greener energy harmful metals, while decreasing input
the Rodale Institute’s Farming Systems resources. These may include bio-digesters needs of water and fertilizers. Soils high in
Trials and the direction of sustainable and windmills in farms and industry. The humus levels also allow for greater carbon
agriculture in Pennsylvania. first year of applications were due Sept. 19 sequestration. Carbon sequestration may
Energy and environmental stewardship and currently there has been about $47 be a key in absorbing carbon dioxide
are areas in which Dan Desmond is well million requested for a program with only emissions, linked to global warming and
versed. Stemming from 33 years of experi- $5 million appropriated. PEH grants are greenhouse effects.
ence involved with environmental tech- intended to address the dual concerns of Farms, whose soils sequester large
nology, which began around the first energy and environmental quality, which amounts of carbon, may act as carbon
Earth Day in 1970, Dan has worked tire- are two areas of particular interest to DEP. sinks and could create a new carbon trad-
lessly contributing to the cause of envi- Two priority focus areas for the program ing market that currently does not exist.
ronmental preservation. Formerly the are farming for the future and waste coal. Desmond explained that, if carbon-trad-
president of the Desmond Company, As agriculture is commonly cited as ing markets were to develop in the future,
which promoted energy-efficient, techno- PA’s number one industry, using new and “carbon trading credits could be another
logically advanced buildings, and later alternative energy sources and reducing value added to farms.”
working with HUD in New England to energy usage can make the industry even Cheryl Cook, having assumed her role
build energy-efficient, multifamily homes, more competitive. Agricultural lands can with PDA in April, has been hard at work
Desmond has had a main focus on what be used as wind farms, providing the on a new campaign scheduled to be
he calls the “built environment.” landowner a steady stream of income with unveiled at the PA Farm Show in January,
In the early 80’s Desmond was director minimal impact on grazing and crop rota- named Pennsylvania Preferred. This new
of the PEO (PA Energy Office) and the tion. Alternative power resources like solar campaign is aimed to bring commodity
Governor’s Energy Council, where he energy can be used to pump water to live- programs together to follow the trend of
remained until its closing in 1995. stock, thus saving time, money and consumer desire for local products. She
Desmond now heads the Office of Energy streams. Energy efficient technologies can notes this program is not overtaking the
and Technology Development (formerly allow farmers to continue to produce a familiar Simply Delicious campaign. The
Pollution Prevention and Compliance high quality product at a lower cost. Simply Delicious campaign will be under-
Assistance). A main goal of the office is to The other grant focus area is related to going some policy changes to raise stan-
promote environmental innovation to cre- the use of waste coal to generate energy, dards and prevent misuse of the label (for
ate jobs in the Commonwealth. Desmond stemming from the legacy of mining in instance, nobody wants Simply Delicious
says, “The environment should not be PA. Past mining practices have left 3,100 being used over a display of apples from
perceived to be at odds with the goal of miles of PA’s 83,000 miles of streams pol- Washington state).
achieving a sustainable economy.” luted by acid mine drainage from Cook’s background began with a
Both Cheryl and Dan agree that sus- orphaned mining operations. degree in English and political science,
tainable farms and communities go far Cook and Desmond have also been followed by law school. She was a lobbyist
20
for the National Farmers Union for half the commodities sold, but they are getting the organization going, but the
(1987–1992), worked with the PA Farm- on the land, in their communities, paying members ‘stayed the course.’ Sustainable
ers Union, and the former Farmers Home taxes and playing a vital role in rural Penn- agriculture was part of their core beliefs
Administration (now Rural Development) sylvania. We need to review what we can and a lasting approach to citizenship and
in USDA. Most recently, she was execu- do to help farmers, such as increasing stewardship.”
tive director of the Keystone Develop- direct marketing and farms-to-school “PASA is seen as an organization that is
ment Center until her appointment in sales, and start consulting with govern- a friend and ally to small farmers in this
2003 as Deputy Secretary. ment institutions to help them buy local.” global economy,” says Desmond. “PASA
Cheryl thinks sustainable agriculture She further explains, “PDA also should has the power to build bridges and allies
has outgrown its niche market status. She look closely at its own programs, such as among many farmers and communities. If
says, “Just under 3% of producers account the Farmland Preservation Program, to PASA intends to grow in the future, it
for just under half the gross commodities ensure they don’t discourage innovations must broaden the base of support and
sold in Pennsylvania. Among other things, like renewable energy that can help keep outreach to more traditional farming
that means a large majority of the farmers farmers on the land. Agriculture today just communities in search of a common
in our state have fairly small operations.” isn’t the same as it was 20 years ago when good. Connections can be fostered
She affirmed that a growing consumer these programs, and even USDA’s Conser- farmer-to-farmer and organization-to-
market now exists with more and more vation Reserve Program, were first enacted organization. PASA is full of good people
people beginning to support small opera- into law. We need to make sure we’re still with generosity and spirit who care about
tions with direct purchases of farm prod- achieving our goals.” Pennsylvania agriculture.”
ucts. “The need for small farmers to Both Cook and Desmond are avid Cook concurred. “PASA is uniquely
supply this interest on the part of con- PASA supporters. Each has been active in situated among agricultural organizations.
sumers opens a world of opportunity.” working for Pennsylvania farming and You have credibility with farmers of all
Cook states, “The future direction of environmental standards over the last sev- sizes of operation through educational
the sustainable ag base in PA needs to eral years. It is refreshing to know that the programming and on-site how-to’s that
begin with a good evaluation of where we organization has support from individuals are second to none. You’ve been ahead of
are. Are we protecting our natural in positions of influence to help further the curve on everything from ‘buy local’
resources, including our human the cause of sustainable agriculture. initiatives to the importance of farmers
resources?” Programs such as agricultural Desmond became a lifetime PASA working together in cooperatives. You can
land preservation, Clean & Green, and ag member after attending several meetings get 1,200 farmers to travel to State Col-
security areas were created to preserve and events. “I admire PASA, whose mem- lege in the dead of winter. Who wouldn’t
farmland, but not necessarily farmers. bers believe so much in the mission of the want to be part of an organization with
“That 97% of farmers may only account organization.” He recalls, “It was not easy that kind of impact?”
22
AN ALL VEGETARIAN AND CERTIFIED HUMANE LABEL
HOMEMADE MENU AT ONE Humane Farm Animal Care, based in
CHESTER COUNTY SCHOOL Herndon, Virginia is now certifying produc-
By Kathy Boccella ers raising beef and dairy cattle, sheep, pigs,
Zipporah Taylor is sitting in her third- turkeys, and chickens for a new quality
grade classroom eating a school lunch that label.The Certified Humane program has the
she says is yummy. If that seems remark- endorsement of the USDA as well as many
able, consider this: Lunch is spinach tofu animal welfare groups across the country.
pie.“I like the broccoli cheese soup and gar- Farm inspections are conducted by
den burgers, too,” says Zipporah, 8. “I like Humane Farm Animal Care, a nonprofit
everything,” chimes in desk mate Gabriel group. Inspectors are trained in veterinary
Liss. medicine or related fields. The USDA Agri-
If most students think school lunches culture Marketing Services also follows up
are as appetizing as, well, spinach and tofu, with the inspection and labeling process.
few of them are sitting down to the kind of Certified Humane prohibits use of
food served at the Kimberton Waldorf growth hormones, requires animals to be
School in Kimberton, Chester County. Kim-
berton’s lunches are to other schools’ what
raised on quality feed, free of antibiotics.
Processors also need to meet American
marketing and
Chez Panisse is to McDonald’s. Meat Institute Standards, which are higher marketing
value-added
and
Everything is organic, vegetarian and than the Federal Humane Slaughter Act.
homemade. The menu is often based on More information on this labeling pro- value-added
what’s fresh, abundant and produced local- gram can be found at certifiedhumane.com
ly: says, the yogurt from the dairy farm or by calling Holly Bridges at (703) 591-
across the street and bread baked at a com- 0350. We design and print labels
munity for the mentally disabled.The words forflowers,honey,fruit,
“partially hydrogenated” are not in its CONSUMER POWER
We design and print labels
vegetables,sprouts,milk,
vocabulary. “We want to give the children Residents of Mendocino County Califor- forflowers,honey,fruit,
yoghurt, cheese, meat,
the most nutrition we can. Eating good nia launched a ballot initiative likely to vegetables,sprouts,milk,
food helps them learn,” said program direc- appear on the March 2004 ballot, to
eggs, nuts —
yoghurt, cheese, meat,
tor Jennifer Keogh, whose long braids and become the first GMO-free zone in the U.S. labelsforalmostanything!
eggs, nuts —
flowing skirt make her look as natural and This initiative would ban genetically
organic as the food she serves. What passes engineered crops in the county, protecting
labelsforalmostanything!
for junk food at the K–12 private school — local conventional and organic farmers
whole-wheat pizza or an Italian hoagie from drifting GE pollen. However stores will
made with cheese and vegetables — is still be allowed to stock foods with GE
more healthful than the artery-clogging ingredients.
fare served at most public schools.
ANOTHER USE FOR FLY ASH 1-800-693-1572
LABELING LAWSUIT PITS Researchers at the University of Pennsyl-
FARM VERSUS MONSANTO vania’s School of Veterinary Medicine have 1-800-693-1572
Organic & Food News Issue #19 found an effective way to stabilize phos- growersdiscountlabels@tds.net
Support is growing for the small family phorus amounts in manure. The key is low-
owned Oakhurst Dairy, which is being sued ering the solubility by using fly ash. Fly ash growersdiscountlabels@tds.net
by the $5 billion Monsanto Company for is a by-product of burning coal, specifically
labeling their products as rBGH-free. Realiz- the fine, airborne particles. When added to
ing that the results of the lawsuit could set dairy, hog or broiler manure, percentages of
a precedent for the rBGH labeling on a water-soluble phosphorus are decreased
national scale, dairy producers, concerned by up to 80%.
consumers and even Ralph Nader are
donating time and money to the lawsuit.
Oakhurst says they have the right to let
their consumers know that there are no For the latest information on PASA activities, visit us at:
artificial growth hormones in their milk.
Monsanto claims consumers shouldn’t
need to know whether or not the compa-
www.pasafarming.org
ny’s chemicals are in their milk or not.
23
Opportunities & Classifieds
Organic Produce Farming and CSA | Must Great opportunity | For several hard-work- outside the Borough of Selinsgrove, PA
have one year of produce growing experi- ing individuals with agricultural interests. along Rt. 522 (continuously operated; 15
ence. Family opportunity. Housing avail- Small and highly diversified certified organ- acres are organic). Includes 1823 era heavy
able. Position starting January 2004. ic, 80 A. vegetable and fruit farm of 30 years, pegged timbered 3 bay frame bank barn
Contact Chris Petersheim at Paradise near Pittsburgh, PA. Large number of sub- with 5 stalls, operating horse stable, tack
Organics, 33 S. Belmont Road Paradise, PA scribers (CSA) plus greenhouse and whole- room, and 3 acres of pasture. Outbuildings
17562, (717) 684-6370. sale market keep us (plus 2–4 Mexican include double corncrib, pig house, brick
workers) busy from February through smokehouse and wood shed all in good
Farmer/Manager Wanted | For unique
December. Crops range from nearly any condition.
property in SW Pennsylvania. We are look-
vegetable to apples and fresh herbs. Farm Also included are 2 restored houses with
ing for a high-energy, experienced, people
production experience desired, but more spring fed ponds. House from 1788 is made
oriented farmer to develop and operate a
important are motivation, versatility and of log and stone, includes 4320 sq. ft. and
model farm that uses sustainable farming
creativity. Great opportunity to learn how has a spring running through the cellar. Oil-
practices to grow food for those in need. To
to farm profitably. Computer literacy, hot air heat, copper roof, 5 fireplaces, 6 bed-
fund this mission, the farm generates rev-
mechanic and welding skills, Spanish- rooms, 2 1⁄2 bath, antique cherry kitchen
enues by renting out facilities for meetings and full-length south side porch. Also
speaking all pluses. Salary/benefits
and special events. Located 20 minutes includes a story summer kitchen converted
dependent on experience and commit-
from downtown Pittsburgh, this is dynamic into an apartment.
ment.
position for someone who loves the out- Second house dates from 1766, includes
Basic, no-shortcuts, “farmer’s footsteps
doors, has strong organizational skills, and 2340 sq. ft., 2 story with 4 bedrooms, 1 1⁄2
are the best fertilizer”, pay-as-you-go, sim-
has always wanted to manage and care for bath, oak Woodmode kitchen, south side
pler is better,“don’t put all your eggs in one
a farm. porch and now hot air oil furnaces. Inquiries
basket”— farming method.We are commit-
Duties include 1). Growing produce are encouraged. Viewing by appointment
ted to sustainable organics, regionalism,
(fruits and vegetables) for a local food bank only. Please call 570-374-4995.
reasonable consumer pricing, efficiency,
as well as the owner’s extended family and
and professionalism. Eat Healthy! | Fresh, grassfed Angus Beef
friends of the farm. 2.) Management of all
Get a peek at our farm at http://users by the cut, box, quarter, half, or whole avail-
farm staff and volunteers in working
.stargate.net/~kmann. Contact Don & Becky able now through mid-December. No grain,
towards farm objectives. 3.) Caring for a
at Kretschmann Farm-for application, 257 antibiotics or hormones ever, grazed on
small number of animals. Plans to eventual-
Zeigler Rd. Rochester, PA 15074, kmann@ organic and transitional land. For ordering
ly raise grass-fed beef. 4.) Building and sus-
usaor.net, or call 724-452-7189 information call Over the Moon Farm at
taining strong relationships with the
charitable organizations that we support as Wanted | Interested students at PSU to (814) 349-2697 or email lyn@overthemoon-
well as the volunteers they supply. 5.) become involved in a Sustainable Ag Club. farm.com
Implementation of permaculture and sus- If you or someone you know might be Moving | Need caretaker for 3 Guernsey
tainable principles at the farm so that all interested, please contact Shon Seeley at heifer calves. Basically you lease for free 3–4
processes are efficient, effective and earth sls425@psu.edu. years. Pyrenee Dog good with all livestock.
friendly. Must maintain outstanding envi- Stops predators crows to bears $500. (814)
Help Wanted | 600 acre diversified, certified
ronmental practices. A very high priority 486-3135.
organic farm with 100 acres in vegetable
will be placed on keeping the entire farm
production and 250 member CSA, looking For Rent | Alternative homesteaders look-
clean, organized, and free of clutter. Addi-
for self-motivated couple or individuals. ing for kindred spirit(s) to rent mobile
tionally, manager must ensure that all clien-
Responsibilities include coordination of home, share organic garden space in rural
tele who come for special events feel
CSA, vegetable production and drip irriga- southern PA. Commuting distance to York
welcome and are treated with respect and
tion. Competitive wages and housing avail- and Lancaster, PA, and Bel Air, MD. Beautiful
courtesy.
able. A year-round, long-term position. hiking trails and Susquehanna River nearby.
Compensation: Salary based on experi-
Please send resume to Mike Porter, Box 416 Contact 717-862-1737 or 657 E. Posey Rd.,
ence, plus opportunity to earn merit bonus.
Elba, NY 14058 or by e-mail sjporter@eznet Airville, PA 17302.
Health insurance and dental included, as
.net.
well as housing and a farm vehicle. Farmers Needed | At certified organic CSA
To Apply: Send a brief letter outlining Historic Farm Homestead For Sale | in Towson Maryland. Cromwell Valley CSA
your qualifications along with an updated Homestead on approximately 114 acres of seeks farmer and interns for the 2004 grow-
resume to edormer@future-fund.com or fax tillable farmland, owned by Richard and ing season.The CSA provides recently reno-
to (724) 746-0770. Ronny Riegel. Has all over road frontage, vated housing for all farmers and interns,
24
and a salary. Located on seven acres of the Cromwell Val-
ley Park in Baltimore County, the CSA provides organic
produce for up to 150 shareholders each season for 28
weeks. Includes established perennial crops, an irrigation
system, a heated potting shed, and a 28’x 48’ greenhouse.
Members pick up produce at the farm. Potential for work
with layers and two draft horses.
The right candidate has experience growing a crop of
diverse organic vegetables. Experience working in a CSA
environment a plus. The CSA has an established core
group of volunteers to assist with administrative tasks.This
is the perfect opportunity for someone who wants an
established farm, subscriber base, and the convenience of
a nearby major metropolitan area.
Please call (410)-880-2428 and leave your contact
information, or send a detailed list of your experience to:
Cromwell Valley CSA, P.O. Box 9707, Baltimore, MD 21284.
PASSAGES AD
RATES AND POLICY
Advertising Inquiries: Please call or write the PASA
office for a full advertising package and rate card.
Special rates available for PASA Business Members
and multiple advertising packages. Contact the
PASA office.
Display Ads Rates: Contact PASA office for com-
plete rate card.
Classified Ads: $5 for first 30 words, and $.20 per
word over 30. PASA members receive one free 30-
word ad per year.
Opportunities & Calendar Listings: PASA is
pleased to offer these listings at no charge as a serv-
ice to our members. Please limit entries to no more
than one paragraph.
Advertising Disclaimer: PASA cannot investigate
the products or claims of advertisers and we don’t
necessarily endorse any products advertised in Pas-
sages. However, we encourage you to support the
companies that support PASA. We reserve the right
to accept or reject any ad.
Back Issues: Are available from PASA.
25
Calendar of Events
26
Volunteers
Sustainable Ag
Leadership Award
Reminder
Know someone who stands out in the pro-
motion of sustainable agriculture? Some-
one whose day-to-day work gives
Show your support with a exceptional lifeblood and energy to our
movement, or someone who quietly leads
PASA FARM LANE SIGN by example using new and innovative
These beautiful three-color signs have been created exclusively for PASA members. They methods to produce and market their com-
are a bright addition to your farm or business. modities? PASA Award Committee Chair
PASA member signs are available in two sizes. The large “farm lane size” measures 18” X 24”, and David Bingaman is accepting nominations
the smaller “farm market size,” great to post at any business, measures 10” X 14”. Both are con- for the Sustainable Ag Leadership Award
structed of heavy gauge white aluminum, with a bright three-color logo in yellow, purple and
until December 15, 2003. Please contact
green. Created in durable nylon, the image will last for many years. The signs are two-sided, so
people will see your support coming and going! David at the Pennsylvania Department of
Buy one today! Prices are as follows: Agriculture, 2301 North Cameron Street,
Small Sign — $28 + $4.00 shipping = $32.00 #G-13, Harrisburg, PA 17110, phone 717-
772-5208, email dbingaman@state.pa.us.
Large Sign — $58 + $4.00 shipping = $62.00
As always, PASA will present the award at
To order, send your check or credit card information, along with your name, mailing address
and phone to PASA Merchandise, P.O. Box 419, Millheim, PA 16854 the Farming for the Future Conference in
State College, February 2004.
27
Book Reviews
Review By Heather House based on hydrogen and sunshine, and 3) Hawken recommends green fees be levied
“Value is what we ascribe. Prosperity is create systems of feedback and accounta- on destructive or inefficient practices, the
what we make it to be. So what will it be?” bility that support and strengthen restora- costs of which would be passed on to the
Written over a decade ago, Paul Hawken’s tive behavior. consumer. Consumers, in turn, would
poignant observations in The Ecology of Hawken concludes, The Ecology of demand more efficiency and less destruc-
Commerce are still provocative and dis- Commerce with an exposé on how to tion. Imagine…in this restorative econo-
turbing. Using examples from long past change positive feedback loops to negative my, your customers will be asking why
and recent history, Hawken illustrates the feedback loops. Positive feedback loops your organic tomatoes and beef are so
linear practice where businesses extrapo- reinforce behavior, while negative feed- cheap!
late natural and limited resources in pro- back loops encourage change in behavior, The Ecology of Commerce: A Declara-
duction of goods and services. These which can have a positive effect on busi- tion of Sustainability will be sold at the
businesses assume no responsibility ness and the environment. For example, 2004 PASA Conference.
beyond delivery to the consumer. Fueled
by stakeholder demand to see a business
“grow”, many companies overstep their
limits resulting in a damaged society and Fatal Harvest: The Tragedy of Industrial Agriculture
environment in their effort to be a low- Edited by Andrew Kimbrell, June 2002. ISBN 1-55963-940-7
cost, high margin producer. Available in Hardcover $75.00, paperback $45.00 from Island Press 202-232-7933
Hawken suggests that this definition of
“growth” means a “quantitative increase in Review by Ruth Sullivan includes dozens of endangered varieties
the scale of the physical dimensions of the Truly meant for the coffee table, Fatal with lyrical names like redina, red majes-
economy.” Current business practices sim- Harvest: The Tragedy of Industrial Agricul- tic, pink dent, pipestone, sierra beauty,
ply do not anticipate a time when ture is a huge book with a whopping 396 orange pippin, ozette, and viking purple.
resources will “run out,” nor do they pages and 250 color photographs. Fatal In “Learning to See” the author con-
incorporate environmental and social Harvest is a compilation of over 50 essays- trasts photographs of monoculture sys-
costs into their balance sheets. by some of the best known minds in sus- tems on an industrial scale with diverse
But there is an alternative. Hawken tainable agriculture including Wendell systems on an agrarian scale. Focusing on
cites many examples of successful enter- Berry, Wes Jackson, Vandana Shiva, Fred systems that grow corn, wheat, rice, let-
prises conducting business in a restorative Kirschenmann, Hope Shand, and A.V. tuce, tomatoes, berries, and more, the pic-
way. Restorative economics goes beyond Krebs on the ecological, economic, and tures show us the differences in the two
sustainability. “A restorative economy tries social impacts of industrialized agricul- types of landscapes.
to achieve a market in which every trans- ture. These are some of my favorite sec-
Fatal Harvest ends with essays on re-
action provides constructive feedback into tions: In “Seven Deadly Myths of
visioning agriculture for the 21st century.
the commons.” One example is the Industrial Agriculture” the books takes on,
This section focuses on important ideas
Menominee Indians who select and cut and de-bunks, the following oft-quoted
that have been a part of PASA’s philoso-
woods from their 234,000 acre forest. phrases. Industrial agriculture will feed
phy and mission from the beginning —
Their restorative practices, which provide the world; industrial food is safe, healthy
and nutritious; industrial food is cheap; Let’s create fully integrated food systems
much of their income, have not only pro-
duced billions of board feet of sawn tim- industrial agriculture is efficient; industri- that help us regain connections between
ber (more productive than the adjacent al agriculture offers more choices; indus- farmers and consumers.
Nicolet National Forest), but also benefits trial agriculture benefits the environment This book is like a sumptuous buffet
wildlife, streams, and biodiversity. and wildlife; and biotechnology will solve table laid out with a rich array of dishes. It
While a growing economy is just get- the problems of industrial agriculture. is so full of compelling images, ideas,
ting bigger, a developing economy is get- In “Monoculture vs Diversity: The facts, and quotes that there is no way to
ting better. The Ecology of Commerce Illusion of Choice”, the author describes take it all in at once. Rather, I found I
proposes three approaches to transitioning how the biological diversity of specific needed to peruse, sample, sip, wait a while
from our current growing economy to a fruits and vegetables have declined drasti- and then go back for more. After reading
restorative, developing economy: 1) Obey cally since 1903. Each essay — on lettuce, through this book I found myself full,
the waste-equals-food principle, 2) change corn, apples, potatoes — is accompanied happy, satisfied, and wondering if I could
from an economy based on carbon to one by a full page, color photograph that go back for one last piece of pecan pie.
28
Pennsylvania Sustainable
Baskets for The Holidays
This holiday season we are celebrating the bounty of baskets not only supports the farms, but also sustain-
the Pennsylvania harvest and the spirit of the PASA able agriculture in the state. Tait Farm Foods will
farming community. In partnership with Tait Farm donate 15% of the proceeds from the sale of these bas-
Foods, we are proud to present the following Pennsyl- kets to PASA. PASA is also offering a discounted
vania Sustainable Agriculture baskets filled with deli- membership option with each collection for an addi-
cious products produced by PASA farm families. Each tional $25.00 (regularly $35.00). This is an opportunity
basket includes a profile introducing the participating to show PASA pride and give the gift of good taste,
farms, as well as the mission of PASA. The sale of these while supporting sustainable agriculture.
REAP™
Crop-specific REAP™ fertilizers available
Call to discuss: 800-624-3279 PostScriptPicture
â REAP™ fertilizers
â
(NC2003_3.5x5.pm7)
Your fertilizer needs
â Discount programs
â Our OMRI listed fertilizers
â Our NOP fertilizers
â Dealer opportunities
Revitalize your soil —
Reward yourself.™
McGeary Organics
30
PASA Membership/Contribution Form
Please clip this application and return with payment to: PASA Membership, PO Box 419, Millheim, PA 16854.
Company/Farm
ZIP+4 County
$ 100
Would you like to receive mailings from PASA: NO YES
Nonprofit Please complete Field C
SUBTOTAL $
Address
Your contribution as a lifetime member will be managed with care as part State ZIP+4
of our Founder’s Fund, sustaining both your ongoing membership and
the long-term future of PASA. E-mail
Sustaining Lifetime Member Please complete Field B $ 700
Are you farming: NO YES — how many acres:
SUBTOTAL $
Would you like to receive mailings from PASA: NO YES
Gift Memberships
In addition to your own membership, you may give PASA membership to D. Gift Membership
a good friend, family member, business associate or other worthy recip- Name
ient on an annual or lifetime basis…a gift that keeps on giving!
Please complete Field D Address
Student $ 15
City
Individual $ 35
State ZIP+4
Family/Farm $ 55
SUBTOTAL $
Donation Payment
Tax-deductible donation to Annual Fund SUBTOTAL $ Total amount due Check Make check payable to PASA
$ Credit Card Complete below
Card No.
$
Exp. Date
Total Amount Due VISA MasterCard
Cardholder Name
Signature
31
PASA’s 13th Annual
Farming for the Future Conference
Pathways to Prosperity: The New Face of Agriculture
February 5, 6 & 7, 2004 • Penn Stater Conference Center, State College, PA
Information on registering and purchasing tickets is online at www.pasafarming.org or call PASA at 814-349-9856.