The response to the USDA's proposed rules for organic has been loud and
critical. The government's decision to include among other things genetically
engineered organisms, sewage sludge, factory farming of livestock, and
irradiated foods under the organic umbrella ranked farmers and consumers
alike. It now appears almost certain that the rules will be rewritten, thus
adding more time and frustration to what has already been a lengthy and
confusing process.
Some of us who have farmed for years chemical free are convinced that asking
the USDA to define organic is like trusting the Fox to guard the chicken
coop.
Rather than waiting on the government "or anyone else" we are instead
suggesting a proactive stance. Since last October we have been meeting
monthly
to discuss what shape appropriate local response to the debate on organic
might
take. Weather third party certified organic or biodynamic or independently
organic we all agree that are most trusted and recognizable support comes from
our customers. We also saw eye to eye on matters such as protecting customers
right to choose, educating the public on the benefits of chemical free
farming,
in connecting customers to sources of food as Hallmark of good, safe and
sustainable agriculture.
Washington cannot address these matters for us, nor can they define the values
they reflect, since they are spiritual values and depend on a system of
regulation that exceeds any government's capacity to legislate. Instead, we
need what we begun to call "community certification." Community certification
is carried out by individuals who look at each other in the eye at farmers
markets, in community programs, and produce stance. It is based on honor and
trust, and no federal program will ever match its integrity.
We recognize the years of combin agricultural experience represented among
you,
and we need your participation as we clarify what this new "system" should
looked like. We are considering a new certification program tentatively
called
"community certified" which would not used word organic at all. Please
join us
in further discussion.
An organic growers homepage check out
http://www.rain.org/~sals/my.html
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