May / June 2008 tilth (fr. OE “tillian” + th): Volume 19, No. 2 A. the quality of cultivated soil. FREE B. cultivation of wisdom and the spirit. Global Organics

www.tilth.org May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page  Editor’s Desk As I write, there is a “perfect storm” miles play into this? What are the learn- with food all over the world. The combi- ing centers and hubs for alternative ag like nation of spiking energy costs, increased across the planet? This edition embraces demand and shortages have impacted the macro wholeheartedly. populations across class lines around the Just as Cuba has had to reinvent itself planet. We all gotta eat, and for most, that as a permaculture and organic hub in the reality is getting much more expensive. Carribean after the breakup of the Soviet Suddenly, our place in the global Union, the sustainabilty learning centers scheme of things seems that much more profiled here across the world, are like seed stark. All of which makes this issue’s theme banks on the international stage. These a bit more compelling. centers are all places where you can plug in As producers and consumers, we if so inclined. tend to think of impacts in our immediate Speaking of plugging in, there is a realm; our bellies, our fields, our wallets - dispatch from an intrepid WWOOFer and May / June 2008 the micro rather than the macro. As I pon- results of surveys of your fellow organic Vol. 19, No. 2 der organic’s role in the upheaval of global shoppers with surprising discoveries. ISSN # 1065-1527, 2008 agriculture, it is worthy to look at the way Bringing it all home there is a report Oregon Tilth the organic revolution, or restoration, is from the Northwest’s own organic farmers playing out on the ground, wherever that who recently met to compare notes from Editor, publisher, layout and ad sales: ground may be. the field. Andrew Rodman What follows in these pages is far from Can biologically responsible farm- ing be a solution to our global food woes? Contributing Writers: a complete picture of the macro, but it is an attempt. That is the great challenge of our genera- Nick Andrews, Andrew Black, How can organic certification as- tion. Along the road to this new paradigm, Leighton Blackwell, Zoë Bradbury sist in combatting extinction? What are successes and stories from afield can be Kathy Dang, Tracy Grainger, Drew Katz the implications of our food choices with instructive and inspirational. It is in that Marci Krass, Sarah Mazze, Andrew Rodman, regards to climate change, and how do food spirit that this issue is dedicated. Joel Preston Smith, Alyssa Sullivan –Andrew Rodman Erin Volheim, Natalie Reitman-White Subscriptions are free with Oregon Cover collage by Andrew Rodman Tilth membership, which begin at Global $30/year ($40 outside U.S.). page 4 Reprints by permission. Contents Survey Sustainability centers 4 Feedback, Advocacy 6 Tilth’s mission OEC 7 Oregon Tilth, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Russian log: organic vs. poachers 8 organization that supports and promotes bio- WWOOFing down under 11 logically sound and socially equitable agricul- ture through education, research, advocacy and Global warming & food choices 12 Food product certification. Fellow organic shoppers 17 Miles Russia Since its inception in 1974, Tilth has Modern ghost story 18 page 12 page 8 brought together rural and urban produc- Yard and Garden 20 ers and consumers around land stewardship Trouble in paradise 22 and healthy food. Oregon Tilth administers educational programs, supports sustainable The universal garden 23 agriculture research and policy, and offers If I were a Superdelegate. 24 organic certification to producers and food Voices from the field F2FX 25 handlers throughout the Americas. For more The cult of nutrition 28 information about any of the exciting programs International internships 31 of Oregon Tilth, please call on us: En Español Oregon Tilth, Inc. Ghost 470 Lancaster NE • Salem, OR 97301 Un Sondeo de Centros story office(503) 378-0690, • (877) 378-0690 Espectaculares 32 page 18 fax (503) 378-0809 Research Reports 38 Yard& [email protected] Classifieds 41 www.tilth.org Calendar 45 Garden Membership 47 page 20

Submission deadline for Future Farming theme issue is May 10, 2008. Page  May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Oregon Tilth Staff ADMINISTRATIVE Enviro. Ed. Coordinator/AmeriCorps Mike Dill, [email protected] Oregon Tilth Quality Control Director Conner Voss, [email protected] (503) 378-0690 Board of Directors Chris Schreiner, [email protected] (503) 798-8906 Darin Jones, [email protected] (503) 566-3012 Editor, In Good Tilth (503) 378-0690 Administration Andrew Rodman, [email protected] Darryl Williams, [email protected] Jody Berry Jenny Smith, [email protected] (503) 779-3929 (503) 378-0690 Wild Carrot Herbals (503) 566-3011 CERTIFICATION Farm Program Manager Administrative Assistants Certification Director Tiffanie Huson Labbe, [email protected] Kate Carman Erin Jensen, [email protected] Kristy Korb, [email protected] (503) 566-3019 Carman Ranch Amanda Brown [email protected] (503) 566-3024 (503) 378-0690 Farm Program Reviewer Inspection Coordinator Miguel Guerrero Accounts Manager John Stalley, [email protected] Ben Ezzell, [email protected] Catherine Steffens, CPA (503) 566-3015 (503) 580-1854 OMRI [email protected] Global Organic Program Manager Inspectors (503) 566-3021 Jim Pierce, [email protected] Andrew Black, [email protected] Joe Snyder Information Tech Specialist (541) 740-1410 (503) 779-5876 Myrtle Point Vet Hospital Heather Smith, [email protected] Latin American Specialist Pat Moore, [email protected] (503) 566-3023 Garth Kahl, [email protected] (541) 621-1777 Adam Zimmerman RESEARCH AND EDUCATION (503) 507-4122 Andrew Bennett, [email protected] ShoreBank Enterprise Cascadia Organic Education Center Program Processing Program Manager (541)760-9328 Coodinator Connie Karr, [email protected] John Caputo, [email protected] Marci Krass, [email protected] (503) 566-3022 (503) 638-0735 (503) 798-8216 Garden Coordinator Processing Program Reviewers Callyn Trujillo, [email protected] Kathy Dang, [email protected] Gwendolyn Wyard, [email protected] (503) 798-5974 (503) 779-4631 (503) 566-3017 MIDWEST OFFICE Mike Mountain, [email protected] Midwest Certification Coordinator New (503) 566-3018 Dave Engel, [email protected] (541) 740-1420 Inspector OTCO certified farms & processors Robert Caldwell, [email protected] Domestic, since February, 2008

Mohawk River Blueberries Dan & Teresa Young Farm Max Seed Company (Marcola, OR) (Altura, MN) (Olympia, WA)

New Growers: North Fork Dairy New Processors: Raining Rose, Inc. (Arlington, WA) (Cedar Rapids, IA) A2R Farms, LLC Alpine Slicing & Cheese (Corvallis, OR) Palmer Dairy Conversion Rising Sun Farms (Preston, ID) (Monroe, WI) (Phoenix, OR) Duncan Island Ranch (Mapleton, OR) Paradise Creek, Inc. Cascade Peak Spirits, Inc. River Point Farms LLC, (Richland Center, WI) (Ashland, OR) (Hermiston, OR) Dutch Organic LLC (Dublin, TX) Rising Sun Jersey Farm Del Monaco Specialty Foods Inc. The Fearless Chocolate Co., LLC (Soldiers Grove, WI) (San Jose, CA) (Oakland, CA) Hayat Farm (Portland, OR) Three Mile Farm Full Tank Foods, Inc. The Pictsweet Company (Grants Pass, OR) (Seattle, WA) (Bells, TN) Klamath Algae Products, Inc. / Vision, Inc Sorensen Dairy Golden Avatar Wiscon Corporation (Klamath Falls, OR) (West Concord, MN) (Portland, OR) (Melrose Park, IL)

Mac-Lane Farms Jim Valdez Jack’s Produce (Goodhue, MN) (Nehalem, OR) (Pearsall, TX) Oregon Tilth certifies: 545 organic processors • 667 organic growers • 3 organic restaurants • 1 retailer May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page  A survey of stunning sustainability centers

By Erin Volheim whole system. Initially, their crops are more programs CERES engages the com- I spent late winter on a virtual tour of affected by pests and disease. munity, and hosts over 75,000 visitors organic farms. What I found is that around The technologies of organic production a year. Powered by alternative energy, the world, organic agriculture helps mani- require little investment other than labor. The this urban oasis hosts a café, sustain- fest positive changes in host communities, evaluation found those family farmers who ability education center, a twice particularly when the farmer is growing already produced more or less organically weekly food and craft market, an food for local markets. found it easier and less costly to meet the cer- orchard, 2.5 acre organically certified Globally, organic agriculture is now tification requirements, making only marginal market garden, permaculture gardens, practiced in more than 120 countries of the changes. Their yields did not fall. Farmers native and edible plant nursery, world. Its share of agricultural land contin- with stable land access were also able to carry composting center, walking trails and ues to grow in many countries. According out land-conservation measures. In con- a worm farm. to a 2005 survey, almost 31 million hect- trast, farmers already using chemical inputs, ares are managed organically worldwide: with little family labor available (a frequent New Zealand Australia / Oceania (39 percent), followed situation among women farmers) and also ex- Otamatea Eco-Village • by Europe (21 percent), Latin America (20 periencing unstable land tenure found it very www.otamatea.org.nz/index.htm percent), Asia (13 percent), North America difficult to succeed in organic production. Founded in 1997, 15 families (four percent) and Africa (three percent). While ministries of agriculture, jumbo have created an intentional perma- A 2004 thematic evaluation by the farms and international trade groups are culture community on 250 acres, International Fund for Agricultural De- focusing on getting a piece of the organic pie, 90 minutes south of Auckland. A velopment examined seven small-farmer let’s look at a sampling of innovative projects principal aim of this community is to associations (in six Latin American and around the world with a vision of keeping it repair the deforested and eroded areas Caribbean countries) who successfully ad- local. If they have global reach, it’s mostly in of farmland that they inhabit. Every opted organic farming techniques. In these the form of educational programs, unless they year they plant native trees propagat- countries, most organic farmers are small- grow specialty tropical crops the world won’t ed in their nursery. Approximately 72 scale, suggesting a comparative advantage live without, like cocoa and coffee, which I’m acres of their common land is pasture. in organic production. drinking right now. They manage it to be self-sufficient, Most small farmers in developing producing their own meat with a countries already produce more or less or- Oceana / Australia small herd of 54 cows. Through the ganically, using few or no chemical inputs CERES Community Environment Park • yearly sale of cattle, the grazing pays and frequently grow crops in the forest, www.ceres.org.au a surplus, helping maintain the road mixed with other species. Thus, they find Twenty-five years ago, a group of inspired and fund community projects. shifting to organic production relatively and dedicated people dreamed of a place that easy, with the technologies they already would provide community focus, generate Carribean / Haiti apply. Small farmers are also less likely to environmentally and socially sound jobs and The Lambi Fund • www.lambifund.org experience a higher incidence of pests and serve to demonstrate environmental initia- A diverse group working together disease when they transition. tives. First, they secured the lease for a 10-acre toward economic justice, democracy In contrast, larger well-capitalized former trash dump. Now the Centre for and alternative sustainable develop- farmers who produce with conventional Education and Research in Environmental ment in Haiti. Their sustainable chemical technologies face more difficulties Strategies (CERES) is a thriving community agricultural projects help increase when they shift, needing to change their environment park in Victoria, Australia. With food security and income for impov- diverse projects and wide-ranging education erished families. Lambi Fund recently

Page  May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 overview Global Organics International learning hubs partnered with the Green Belt Movement Middle East / Israel for produce and processed foods, herbal (GBM) to help expand their grassroots teas, beauty products, herbal medicine and reforestation program in Haiti. GBM BUSTAN • www.bustan.org organic cotton products. They also run a was founded by Nobel Peace Prize win- “Bustan” means a fruit-yielding or- medical center, a Waldorf school with pu- ner Wangari Maathai, and networks rural chard in Hebrew and Arabic, and symbol- pils of Muslim and Christian backgrounds, women who have planted over 30 million izes what this group of Jewish and Arab a vocational training center, and a college trees across Kenya since 1977. Deforesta- eco-builders, architects, academics and and a research center. SEKEM’s goals are tion has a critical impact on food security. farmers in Israel/Palestine seek to accom- to “restore and maintain the vitality of the Lambi’s goal is to plant one million trees plish. BUSTAN works to curb the effects soil and food as well as the biodiversity of in Haiti through their “Train the trainer” of globalization in Bedouin communities. nature” through sustainable, organic agri- workshops for grassroots leaders. The Desert Ecology Learning Site works in culture and to support social and cultural collaboration with Bedouin women healers development in Egypt. S. Central Asia / India who practice organic farming and grow tra- Pitchandikulam Bio Resource Centre ditional herbs for use in natural soaps and Southern Africa (PBRC) www.pitchandikulamforest.org/cms/ creams. BUSTAN believes the cultivation African Organic Farming Foundation content/view/23/31/ of organic food and medicine with the use (AOFF) •www.africanorganics.org/index.html In the 1820s in the Tamil Nadu region of appropriate technologies, and enviro- Traditional African farming knowl- of Northern India, trees were felled to drive restoration must be associated with tradi- edge has been lost as black farmers struggle out the tigers, then later for boat timber. tional healing, building, energy and food with hardship and inequitable conditions By 1972, restoration was set in motion by systems. destabilized by socio-political strife and PBRC using green manures to rebuild the corruption. These marginal farmlands are soil, live fences to protect the land from typically short on soil tilth, vegetation and goats and cows, and pioneer species of Northern Africa rainfall. One of AOFF’s projects is their acacia, leucaena, gliricidia and eucalyptus, “Train the Trainer” program, focusing on planted for windbreaks and shade. PBRC rural communities located on the agricul- developed into a Medicinal Plant Conser- tural periphery of wildlife reserves. Working vation Park and Environmental Education with communities enables self-provisioning Training Center focusing on the restora- to reduce wildlife poaching and promote tion of dry tropical evergreen forest. Their ecological stewardship. The goal is enabling buildings run on solar energy, with wind- community self-sufficiency and sales to mill pumps for the nursery and gardens. local or export markets. AOFF includes raw Local farmers are being trained in organic product processing, trade and the neces- farming and vegetable gardening. Currently sary support services. A particular focus on PBRC works in 25 villages throughout the Sekem • www.sekem.com/english/default.aspx involving women in project identification, Kaliveli Bio-Region with environmental Sekem was founded in 1977 to bring implementation and monitoring. education, womens’ self-help groups and about cultural renewal of Egypt. Located student eco-clubs, health clubs and income northeast of Cairo, Sekem now includes generation initiatives. biodynamic farms, trading companies Continued on page 16

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page  SEND Dear Tilth Feedback Grant will help growers Oregon Tilth, along with partners including NRCS, OSU, WSU, WSDA, Feedback OMRI and Cascade Pacific RC&D, was a recipient of a grant totaling over $86,000 Tilth rocks! To the editor: from the Western Sustainable Agriculture From everything that I have seen, In addition to the Book Review noted Research and Education professional devel- Oregon Tilth is right up there. I think that in the March April 2008 issue, two books opment grant program. as the organic industry grows you are going are also excellent resources regarding the The grant will fund training sessions to be the leaders in setting benchmarks, and critical shortage of water in the world today and tools to help natural resource profes- maintaining a high quality product that and in the future. One book is Every Drop sionals better align conservation planning positively affects the consumer. for Sale, Jeffrey Rothfeder, 2001, Tarcher/ processes with organic certification require- I would like to give kudos to the editor Putnam books, New York, $24.95. It is a fast ments for farmers and ranchers. The project of In Good Tilth for the versatility of infor- read because the context is so compelling I will improve coordination between those mation, to get it to a vast variety of readers, kept reading it until the end! who assist organic producers and conser- that is informational and inspirational. It A second book is Red Delta: Fighting for vation planners. In addition, it will help can only be through your work, to distill Life at the End of the Colorado River, Charles those professionals recognize discrepancies information into one issue at a time for us to Bergman, available at major bookstores. between NRCS standards and requirements be able to learn and give us options. Even though water is a major issue, for certified organic systems; providing a fo- -Peppermint Jim Crosby very little attention is given to it, especially rum to develop successful, localized organic St Johns, MN here in the rain-drenched Pacific Northwest. versions of conservation practices that pose a Thank you for highlighting this essential challenge for organic certification. topic and bringing it into focus and aware- Trainings will be held for natural re- ness. source and organic professionals in Oregon, –Name Withheld Washington and Idaho over the coming two Portland. years.

lth is involved in recent action Oregon Ti educatio f our s. n, ou ot o treac psh h an sna d adv s a ocacy ere i for organic solutions. H Actions & Advocacy

February 20 — 22, Gwendolyn Wyard March 25, Andrew Black gave a presenta- attended the Eurofins International An- March 15, Connie Karr gave a presenta- tion for the Master Vegetarian Program at nual Seminar for the Seed, Feed and Food tion to a 20 person Korean Delegation at the National College of Natural Medicine. Industry in Paris, France. Gwendolyn co- Natural Products Expo West. She presented presented an overview of the U.S. organic on Organic certification transparency and April 1, Andrew Black and Tiffanie Huson- regulations. the approval process for certifiers as it Labbe led an Organic Grower’s Meeting in relates to organic body care products mar- Lane County. They talked about organic March 1, John Caputo gave a two-hour keted internationally. seeds, common non-compliances in organic presentation on “Organic Principals and certification, and fielded questions and Certification” at the Small-Scale Organic March 15, Kristy Korb was a co-presenter concerns. Vegetable Production workshop, Sponsored at Expo West in Anaheim, CA., on Organic by OSU Extension ServiceSmall Farms retailer certification, Organic body care, On April 25, Chris Schreiner participated Program to 25 people. and the Organic consumer. in a panel discussion as part of a food sys- tem sustainability forum called “Planting March 3, Anne Eschenroeder gave a talk March 18 -19, Connie Karr and Gwendo- Prosperity and Harvesting Health.” Event to 12 college students from the University lyn Wyard teamed up with the American participants developed policy, program and of Virginia about Oregon Tilth, the Or- Institute of Baking to offer a training for education strategies appropriate for govern- ganic Education Center, and the Ameri- Organic Processors and Handlers and over- ment, businesses, non-profits and educa- Corps programs that she has participated lap of Food Safety protocols with Organic tional institutions to be published in in. Certification. 40 people were in attendance a State of the Regional Food System docu- for the training. ment.

Page  May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Spring brings kids to the farm By Marci Krass The children have arrived! After months of planning and preparing, our staff is happily welcoming kids back onto our educational mini-farms to be inspired by the pastoral landscape, the Krass Marci urban woodland, and learning about how Photo by by Photo our food is grown. Our youth programs are one of the highlights of our season. This year we are piloting a new field trip program called Field an- Yo ar. School at JEAN’s Urban Forest Farm. uth he ye nual progr t of t In addition, we are offering a small number ams at highligh vegetables and the Organic Education Center are a of field trips again at the Luscher Farm, this to distribute week- th a rotat- year in partnership with 47 Ave Farm and ly throughout the season to ing chicken tractor, the City of Lake Oswego. a handful of supportive local families as and a small perennial garden filled with Our Field School program is designed well as several emergency food programs in herbs, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, to heighten children’s senses and engage Portland. Students will learn about health artichokes, and asparagus. We also have a them in learning to know a place we call and nutrition through activities in our dozen hand cultivated raised beds and two JEAN’s Farm, which includes a one acre rustic outdoor kitchen. They will also learn small “fields” we are cultivating with a walk garden, surrounding woodland, and ripar- to make connections about how the farm ian corridor along the banks of Johnson behind tractor. Youth from grades K-12 Creek. We have a small flock of chickens will be helping us to grow a wide array of Continued on page 23

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page  Siberian certification Organic whups poachers in the wild east

Andrew Black and Valeriy Novikov manager of the Chin Sun Hunting Lease rejoice after find- ing Schisandra chinensis during the wild harvest inspection in the Russian Far East.

Photos by Anton Semyonov

By Andrew Black It was my first day in the woods on a weeklong wild harvest inspection. It was nearly midnight, raining, and we were barrel- The Soviet-era jeep lurched down ing down the worst road I had ever traveled. Unlike most of my the muddy forest track deeper into the organic farm inspections, this wasn’t going to be a walk down a row of garden vegetables. Russian wilderness, sloshing my guts Cramped stoically in the back of the bucking jeep, were Anton against my ribs with each jolt. Semyonov, my translator and contact with the Wildlife Conserva-

Page  May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Global solutions tion Society Russia Program and Alexi Perfilyev, assistant man- ager of the Kavalerovo Hunting Lease; one of the wild harvest operations I had come to inspect. Anton was my main guide and translator. I looked at our driver Igor Tetuiev, head of the Hunt- ing Lease. His eyes were riveted on the “road” while his arms flew wildly at the wheel. Although my life was in capable hands, my fortitude began to unravel. I was exhausted, starved and thou- sands of miles out of my comfort zone. Andrew Black (in yellow) and Valeriy Novikov look out Most people wouldn’t expect to find an Oregon Tilth Certi- across a farm field abandoned after the collapse of the fied Organic inspector deep in the forest of the Russian Far East. Soviet Union. Now rosehips are wild harvested there. But the demand in the U.S. for certified organic products is pow- erful enough to send an OTCO inspector almost anywhere. I had arrived in Russia a few days earlier with only my laptop, I was sent to the and a couple of organic system plans for two wild harvest inspec- tions. Somewhere between Portland, Seoul and Vladivostok, my Russian wilderness luggage was lost. Anton Semyonov with the Wildlife Conserva- tion Society, took me to Vladivostok’s Chinatown to buy a change of clothes. because of the I was sent to the Russian wilderness because of the Siberian tiger that used to range through China, Russia, and Korea. Now the last remaining 400 to 500 tigers live a phantom existence in Siberian tiger the Primorsky Kray region of the Russian Far East. Habitat loss Continued on page 10

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page  From left to right: Igor Tetuiev, Anton Global Certification Semyonov, Alexi Perfilyer pose on a ridgeline Organics during the wildharvest inspection. Wildcrafting solutions Andrew Black inspecting Valeriy’s gardens the herb dryer during the and found them wild harvest inspection of typical of what I the Kavelerovo Hunting had seen in nearly Lease. every village home throughout the region—beautiful rows of cabbage, Anton Semyonov Anton potatoes, beets, carrots, tomatoes,

corn, and sunflow- Black Andrew by Photo Photo by by Photo Continued from page 9 ers just three steps away from the back taken a grand step forward towards democ- and poachers threaten their continued sur- door. They grew enough to eat and preserve racy, but its rural economy had taken two vival. Anton and the Wildlife Conservation surplus for winter. All of it was organically steps backwards. Society are hoping that certified organic grown out of necessity and tradition. Later that same day we were driving wild harvested medicinal herbs will help When we sat down to eat, Igor handed through fields of weeds and forbs as high save them. me a shot of Russian cognac and offered a as the hood of Valeriy’s truck. He pointed The Society sponsors a program allow- toast to the beauty of nature. Life was good out hundreds of acres of river bottom soil. ing the Kavalerovo and Chin Sun Hunting Flood waters almost reached the front steps of Jim Austin’s home, where this video of the again. Another toast later, Anton led me to Wild rosehips were easy picking in these Leases to offer locals an economic alter- flood was taken. Waters were waist deep in some areas of the farm. This dairy was lucky. a banya, a wood fired sauna, at the edge of fields and Valeriy wanted to include the native to poaching tigers and their prey. the forest, where I sweated out my exhaus- area for the wild harvest certification. He Villagers register with the hunting clubs to tion and culture shock, while thrashing said that the field had once been part of harvest medicinal herbs on certified organic myself with a moist bundle of oak leaves. a large Soviet farming cooperative. They ground. The hunting club managers, like I stumbled back to the cabin in a daze and had grown oats, potatoes, and corn but Igor, and Valeriy Novikov of the Chin Sun fell asleep smiling. when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1989, Hunting Lease, are responsible for moni- The wild crops hunted by the hunting so did the co-op. Looking out across the toring the pickers, managing post-harvest clubs are the main ingredients in some of abandoned farm fields, I was astonished at drying and keeping records verifying the the finest health elixirs around. Siberian how fast wilderness was reclaiming them. It operations are following National Organic ginseng root, wild rosehips, and the small seemed strange that in fields once alive with Program rules. For a wild crop to be sold as red berry from a vine called Schisandra agriculture, I was now more likely to see organic in the U.S., the NOP demands the chinensis are the focus of the wild harvest. tiger tracks than tractor tracks. land must be free of prohibited materials The plants grow in the forested river val- The story of certified organic wild and that the wild harvest is sustainable and leys dominated by diverse stands of birch, harvested crops beside the footprints of the not destructive to the environment. In ad- aspen, oak, fir and Korean pine. Siberian vanishing Siberian tiger represents a unique dition to being certified organic by Oregon Ginseng Eleutherococcus senticocus and merger between two important environ- Tilth, the land managed by the hunting rosehips grow in abundance there while mental crusades—endangered species clubs is also part of the Wildlife Conserva- Schisandra is harder to find.Schisandra is protection and the organic food industry. tion Society’s Tiger Friendly certification also known as Wu Wei Zi, and is one of If successful, the project will reduce tiger program. There are eight to ten tigers the 50 fundamental herbs of traditional poaching and give Igor and Valeriy an prowling the forests managed by Valeriy Chinese medicine. The Russians I met opportunity to revive their communities. and Igor. According to Anton, the hunting praised the plant for its energy-giving pow- Perhaps this small project in the wilderness clubs can be certified Tiger Friendly if they ers. I ate some for a boost while hiking up of the Russian Far East can one day serve as can effectively control poaching. steep slopes to ridges and hilltops during a model for market-based conservation in A nasty pothole rocked the jeep, and the inspections. other wild places around the globe. although I felt miserable, my fortune was From these high vantage points I could about to change. With one last push, Igor see only untouched forest in all directions If you are interested in contibuting to this revved our jeep up a steep bank and we — no logging scars, no roads, no homes. project, contact Russia Tiger Friendly burst into a clearing with a small cabin. On one hike up to a ridgeline with • WCS Asia Program • c/o Lisa Yook, Outside the jeep, it felt good to stretch Valeriy, I tried to express my amazement 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY and breathe in the clean forest air. We un- at how intact his forests were in contrast 10460. loaded the jeep and Alexi laid out a feast of to the Oregon forests that I call home. In a half smoked salmon, rye bread, mustard, response he said, “Russia is a paradox,” and Andrew Black is an Oregon Tilth staff and fresh vegetables from Igor’s garden. explained that in the last decade Russia had inspector Several days later I visited both Igor’s and

Page 10 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Adventure Global Organics Photos by Leighton Blackwell by Photos Left: Some of the scenery that greeted us. Center: Author Leighton and Laura. By Leighton Blackwell Right: The crew at the Mana Retreat Centre in Coromandel, New Zealand. Recently I went WWOOFing in New Mana is run by a combination of staff and WWOOFers. Zealand. Along with my girlfriend Laura, I signed up for the three-month trip to have fun, learn about another land and trade work on farms. We did a fair bit of weeding in the Laura and I hitch hiked almost We found out about WWOOF humble garden that was growing beets, everywhere. We never waited more (World Wide Opportunities on Organic squash, carrots, zucchini, beans and more. than 30 minutes for a ride and met Farms) from friends and looked it up I helped fill potholes with gravel, Laura really sweet people. One Maori online. The company sent us books for would bake and feed the chickens and deliveryman drove us a half hour roughly $40 that listed over 900 farms pigs, and we shared the four hours a day (a out of his way into the heart of which either practice or are converting to WWOOF standard) with much delight. Auckland city, and gave us a snack as organic, biodynamic, permaculture or sus- We were finished around noon, and he dropped us off a block from our tainable farming. A brief description of the had the rest of the day to do anything we destination. We spent our last week type of farm and other specifics are listed wanted. We explored the surrounding on the Great Barrier island camping, below the name, number and address in the bush, did our laundry in the creek and hiking and hitching and enjoying book. It was too easy. practiced a variety of circus acts as well. nature at its loudest. We jumped the jet in San Francisco, After two weeks, we were ready to I found the people to be very and 13 hours later we were in Auckland get on. So we headed north and visited six enthusiastic and open minded for city (the north island). There, we caught a other family farms and one vegan com- the most part. The ones who were bus south to a little surf town called Rag- mune. While we were farming throughout hosts for WWOOF all aspired to live lan, and were picked up by our first hosts. the north island, we experienced a won- a more conscious life. They taught The setting was 40 minutes from town derful variety of work from a sub-tropical me about farming, diet, alternative out a windy country road that became garden with accommodations, to a small energy, spirituality but most of all four-wheeling driving. They lived on 60- family growing heaps of organic produce to about community. All the people I plus acres of protected native bush. The sell at their country store and the Saturday worked for knew that the best way to farm was labeled as small family farm with market in town. We spent three weeks a better world is through communi- alternative energy resources and a three-me- at a retreat center that was one of the cation, and working together. With ter outdoor trapeze. We couldn’t resist. most aesthetically beautiful places on the a program like this, good things are The circus family of four had a couple planet. While we were there, we cooked destined to happen. solar panels, a wind turbine on a 30 foot and cleaned for a number of groups that pole that was always spinning, and a rented the facility. At the vegan commune Leighton Blackwell hails from generator they fired up every now and then we maintained paths, fought gorse, weeded Beaver Creek on the Central to run energy efficient lights, a washer and and mulched fruit trees, and cooked com- Oregon Coast, and has traveled stereo system. munity meals. At night we often discussed the world over. See www.wwoof. Our accommodation was in a com- animal cruelty and the pros and cons of a org to start your own adventure. fortable little camper. One of my favorite vegan life. memories was being warm and dry at night in our sleeping bags, listening to the rain hit the tin roof.

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 11 Global warming and food choices a guide to low carbon eating

require additional energy to manufacture, ship and apply. Or- ganic farms, on the other hand, rely more on beneficial insects to control pests and manual labor for weeds. Eating with the seasons

By Natalie Reitman-White and Sarah Mazze carbon footprint is to reduce the “oil” Are you stumped by which has a from our diet. Perhaps trickier is to limit Typically, eating locally grown foods lower carbon footprint: chemically grown the other diet-related greenhouse gases. in season can trim your GHG emissions Washington apples or organic New Zea- But how do we distinguish which while also supporting local farmers, your land Fujis? Do you wonder which is worse food choices have a lower greenhouse gas community’s food security, and flavor for the climate: processed soy or pastured impact? And how do we balance these packed meals. beef? considerations with convenience, cultural Enjoy fresh asparagus in the spring The abundance of our choices tastes, nutritional needs, and the pleasure and eggplants in summer to cut carbon. — including year-round availability of of eating? While the answers are not all Tomatoes appearing in the dead of winter food from around the globe — depends straightforward, understanding the frame- either traveled from outside our region or entirely on a steady supply of fossil fuels. work can alleviate some food shopping grew in a hothouse, both of which require The concept of “food miles” has brought dilemmas. additional fuel inputs. In the case of the needed attention to the carbon footprint hothouse, fossil fuels probably were used of the American meal. But food miles Go organic for plastic covering and heat. alone cannot provide the complete picture Organic farming is a of the greenhouse gas emissions associated powerful tool in the fight against Planes, trains, and trucks with what we eat. global warming, according to In 2001, the Leopold Center pro- Fossil fuel inputs like diesel and findings of the Rodale Institute’s Farming duced a seminal report showing that “food coal-based electricity exist in all stages of Systems Trial (FST) that began in 1981. miles” — the average distance food traveled food production and distribution — from In collaboration with Dr. David Pimentel from where it’s grown to where it’s pur- plowing and fertilizing fields to processing of Cornell University, the FST found that chased — was increasing across America. and packaging the food, and every phase organic farming systems have the potential The term “food miles” now is part of the of transportation from the field to the to use 30 to 50 percent less energy than national lexicon, reflecting concern about consumer’s home. To paraphrase author non-organic farming systems. the pollution caused by flying, trucking Michael Pollan, our food is marinated in Additionally, the long-term FST and shipping food around the globe. crude oil by the time it reaches our table. trials conclude that organic cover-crop Lower food miles don’t always Burning all of these fossil fuels result in agriculture is a better “carbon sink” than translate into lower carbon emissions. the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and non-organic agriculture. It better absorbs Recent studies reveal that the difference other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and sequesters natural carbon emissions in emissions between modes of transport into the atmosphere, from decaying matter in the soil, holding can be staggering. A 2006 study by the According to the EPA, agriculture more carbon deeper than non-organically Stockholm Consumer’s Association showed accounts for a whopping seven percent managed farmland. USDA researcher Da- that transporting broccoli 12,000 km. of total GHG emissions in the U.S., vid Doubs, PhD., found that this differ- from Ecuador to Sweden by boat produced primarily nitrous oxide from fertilizers and ence is due to the fact that organic matter only 40 percent of the GHG emissions of methane from livestock. This figure does decays more slowly in organically man- trucking broccoli 3,200 km. across Europe not account for the CO2 emissions from aged soil, in part because organic soil has from Spain. food-related transportation, manufactur- more microbial activity — key to carbon Airfreight has the highest carbon ing, storage and cooking mentioned above. sequestration. emissions of any form of transport. It can The good news is that there are Finally, non-organic farms generally generate up to 177 times the emissions of choices we can make to reduce our climate rely on synthetic fossil fuel-based pesti- Continued on page 14 impact. One primary way to reduce our cides, fertilizers and herbicides, which Photo collage by Andrew Rodman Andrew collage by Photo

Page 12 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Advertisement a guide to low carbon eating Fungus Pharm Saves Tomato Crop • No Suiting Up • No Re Entry Interval

Dear Pharm Solutions, • No Unpleasant Odor

We have been growing organic tomatoes for a few years now and recently, after our USDA Certification, are selling organic heirloom tomatoes commercially.

There are many issues that we growers must face in a greenhouse enviornment and the worst for me is fungus. I have lost 10 times as many plants to fungus than I have to insects, disease or virus combined. Faced with losing an entire greenhouse of 750 plants to a fungal pest, I tried to cure the problems with; Fungastop, baking soda, soapy water and pruning to find the fungus/mold was not even slowed down.

When all else failed, I found Fungus Pharm which came to my aid and saved me many thousands of dollars and many man hours of labor. As a small organic farmer I could not have sustained a loss of that magnitude early in the season and would have lost my entire crop. Fungus Pharm cured the fungus, saved the plants and more importantly, saved the entire crop from destruction.

I write this after the plants have made a full recovery and are producing beautifully as you can see in this photo. Thanks for being in the fore front of what is to be a great future in true organic Pharming!

Michael Thompson, Love Grows Organics Mesa, AZ Pharm Solutions Manufactures the only USDA Certified Organic Pesticides in the world. Pharm Solutions Inc. www.pharmsolutions.com 805-927-7500 tel 805-927-7501 fax

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 13 Global Food miles Organics Meat, nutrients and energy Continued from page 12 There are plenty of ways to make The Chicago study showed also that a shipping, according to the U.K. Soil As- our livestock production systems less fish-based diet is second only to a red meat- sociation, which has launched a major cam- GHG intensive through feeding, farming, based diet in creating greenhouse gas emis- paign against air freighted food products. transportation and processing practices. For sions. Diets that include chicken and diets These studies reflect the importance of example, pastured animals digest their food that derive protein from dairy and eggs considering the mode of transport together better and therefore produce fewer methane tie for third — but only when a non-meat with food miles in buying decisions. emissions. diet includes the same number of calories Recent studies from Lincoln Univer- from animal products, such as cheese, Sustainable meat sity found that for the British, importing yogurt, milk, butter and eggs. (A vegetar- Livestock production is responsible dairy products and pasture raised lamb ian diet generally is more energy efficient for 18 percent of the world’s human-caused from New Zealand produces fewer carbon and lower in GHG emissions since fewer GHG emissions, according to a report by dioxide emissions than consuming dairy calories come from animal products.) The the United Nations. The CO2 and lamb raised on a concentrated diet in authors conclude that if the entire country portion of these emis- English feedlots. switched to a plant-based diet, that alone sions derive from de- Fertilizers for producing livestock feed could trim our national GHG emissions by forestation and other crops also result in nitrous oxide emissions, six percent. land-use changes while poor digestion from eating an un- for grazing and feed natural diet causes even more gas (includ- Whole nutrients production, as well as ing burping) — accounting for 35 to 40 According to a lifecycle assessment of from fossil fuels used to percent of global emissions of methane, a the food system by the Center for Sustain- refrigerate, transport and fertilize crops for greenhouse gas that’s 21 times more potent able Systems at the University of Michigan, feed production. than carbon dioxide. Livestock overall con- 23 percent of the energy used in the U.S. tributes about 80 percent of agriculture’s food system is for processing and packag- total contribution to GHG ing. Foods in their whole, natural form and more than 50 percent of embody less of the energy and emissions the emissions from land-use associated with manufacturing, packaging changes. and transportation between farms, process- For the consumer, sim- ing plants and retailers. ply decreasing the amount Moreover, processed foods are often of meat in our diets from high in sodium and sugars, so choosing 35 percent of calories to 20 fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and percent, we can have the legumes offer health benefits along with same impact on personal trimming your GHG emissions. GHG emissions as switching from driving a Camry to a Prius, according to research- Home energy and growing your ers Eshel and Martin at the own food University of Chicago. Nu- In your own home, 30 percent of the tritionists already advise that energy in the U.S. food supply is used for three ounces of meat is the refrigeration, cooking and dishwashing. Re- recommended portion for frigerators tend to use health, far less than what is more energy than any typical in the American diet. other household ap- Adjusting our diets would be pliance. Find out how good for personal health as efficient your fridge is well as the planet! at www.homeenergy. org/ con- sumerinfo/refrigeration2/ref- mods.php, and consider un- plugging that old, inefficient fridge in the garage. Purchase renewable energy from your utility, or install solar hot water or electricity at home to

Page 14 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Food miles Global Organics Lowering your carbon footprint eliminate emissions from all your home releases CO2 rather than releasing methane reduce the carbon footprint of our diets. energy use. when decomposing in landfills without We don’t have to compromise taste, Biking, walking, using public trans- oxygen. nutrition and, most of all, the pleasure of portation, or combining trips to get your Home composting also reduces eating. Trading a little convenience now groceries trims your transportation emis- emissions from transporting waste, frees for an inconvenient truth later may be the sions. up space in the landfill, andcan save you equation to consider. Finally, growing your own food can money if you decrease your trash services. eliminate transportation, manufacturing Finally, finished compost provides great fer- Sarah Mazze manages the media and and packaging emissions. tilizer for flower and vegetable beds instead community outreach programs at the of petroleum based fertilizers. For apart- University of Oregon Climate Leader- Waste vs. compost ment-dwellers, indoor worm bins provide ship Initiative. About 4,000 calories are grown and many of the same benefits. Natalie Reitman-White is the sustain- raised for each U.S. resident daily, although ability coordinator at Organically much of it spoils in transportation or Setting a low-carbon table Grown Company, the Northwest’s larg- processing before even reaching our plates. Growing concern about climate est distributor of organic produce. She Despite recommendations that we eat change has spurred greater awareness of also manages the Food Trade Sustain- closer to 2,000 calories per day, that extra how personal choice and consumption ability Leadership program at the food ends up in landfills and our balloon- make a difference in lowering global carbon University of Oregon. ing waistlines. Reducing waste cuts out emissions. Every product we consume has a the lifecycle emissions embodied in those “carbon footprint” — the emissions result- This article was reprinted with permis- wilted greens that get tossed at the end of ing from a product’s lifecycle including pro- sion from the Sound Consumer, a the week! duction, distribution, and consumption. publication of PCC Natural Markets. If the greens have to go, composting The supermarket is one place where them will reduce their end-of-life GHG conscientious consumers are taking on the emissions. When organic matter decom- challenge to make “low carbon” buying poses aerobically in a compost pile, it decisions. There are many choices that can

SUPPORT FAMILY FARMS

CROPP Cooperative, owner of the Organic Valley Family of Farms brand, announces it is raising capital through the sale of Class E, Series 1 Preferred Stock. This stock carries a cumulative annual dividend of 6%, to be paid quarterly.

copies of the offering circular Cooperative Regions of Organic Producer Pools (CROPP) may be obtained by calling the croPP cooperative office at: 888-444-6455 or by visiting our Preferred Stock website at www.organicvalley.coop Price $50.00 per Share • Minimum Investment $5,000

the offering is made by the offering circular only and is open only in the following states: Arizona, Arkansas, california, colorado, connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, New Jersey, North carolina, ohio, oregon, South carolina, South dakota, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin.

the Preferred Stock described above is exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Act”), pursuant to Section 3(a)(5) of the Act and pursuant to certain exemptions from securities registration in various states. In addition, the Preferred Stock is a “covered Security” pursuant to Section 18(b)(4)(c) of the Act. Neither the Securities and exchange commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved the Preferred Stock or determined if the offering circular is accurate or adequate. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense. this announcement is under no circumstances to be construed as an offer to sell or as a solicitation of an offer to buy any of these securities or as an offer to sell or as a solicitation of an offer to buy any of these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 15 Global overview Organics Globe trotting with organics Continued from page 5 Western Africa of densely-forested hills, runs a showcase East Africa Sustainable Tree Crops Program (STCP) • greenhouse with a diverse collection of Kenya Institute for Organic Farming (KIOF) www.treecrops.org/index.asp vegetables, melons, greens and herbs. • www.kiof.org STCP is a coordinated effort between Haobao Organic Farm is also home to a Western Kenya has one of the high- farmers and producer organizations (the small three-star hotel with a restaurant est population densities anywhere in rural worldwide chocolate industry and trade). offering their organic meats. One specialty Africa. Land holdings have been subdivided With over 60 percent of the foreign ex- is a homemade corn liquor. This organic with each new generation to near postage change coming from cocoa alone, the goal farm supplies the Parkson and Trust-Mart stamp-size plots. Started in 1986, KIOF is to improve small farmer livelihood with supermarket chains in Kunming with or- was one of the pioneers in Kenya’s organic tree crops in West Africa. Project sites have ganic vegetables, and recently signed on to movement based in Juja town, 30 km. been identified in Côte d’Ivoire, Camer- supply Wal-Mart Supercenters in China. north of Nairobi. KIOF promotes organic oon, Ghana, Guinea, and Nigeria to test agriculture among small farmers through different approaches to ecologically sustain- SE. Asia training and awareness building with focus able cocoa production systems and address on youth, women and self-help farming child labor concerns. STCP’s ultimate goal groups. With demonstration centers in five is to improve the rural livelihood of cocoa provinces, they train farmers with indige- producers by improving their ability to nous knowledge to feed a growing popu- respond to the demands of global markets. lation. Projects include the Small Earth Girls’ High School and a farmers market, community supported agriculture program E. Asia / China and five demonstration gardens. Haobao Organic Farm • www.gokunming. com/en/blog/item.php?blog_id=454 Food safety is becoming a more impor- 08TilthNewsletterAd.qxd 2/27/08 1:20 PM Page 1 tant criteria Vangviang Organic Farm • to Chinese www.laofarm.org/index.html shoppers. Located in the village of Phoudindae- Energize your Soil This has ng in northern Laos. The farm is perched helped propel on the banks of the Nam Song river amidst growth in the jagged limestone mountains that sur- North Pacific’s Ag Products Division distributes fertilizers, ag round the Song River valley. Vangviang minerals and soil conditioners throughout the U.S. Our line of China’s or- ganic market. Organic Farm was founded by Thanongsi natural products helps build your soil and improve your crop Soangkoun in 1996 with the goal of production and quality. About 35 km. northwest of introducing organic farming methods to We offer: Kunming, an area where chemicals and deforestation ® • PAR4 9-3-7 granulated organic fertilizer This 96- are common. Today, the farm supports • PAR4® 2-14-0 granulated bone meal hectares farm a variety of projects around the organic • PAR4® 13-0-0 granulated feather meal produces production of mulberry trees, along with organic fruits, vegetables, and poultry for • Kelpgrow liquid kelp several dozens of varieties of their restaurant. Mulberry trees provide • Cal-CM Plus prilled gypsum leaves to feed to the silk worms, along with • SEAPAL liquid fish fertilizer organic-certi- fied vegetables mulberry tea, wine and shakes. Wages sup- • PEL-LIME® pelletized calcitic & dolomitic lime plus organic port many villagers and profits assist the ® • Menefee Humate meats. The whole community. There is a steady stream • Calphos™ soft rock phosphate farm sells its of foreign visitors who come for the quiet • True Organic Products liquid organic fertilizers products in relaxation, the opportunity to work on an Kunming organic farm, or the thrill of teaching Eng- For product information and dealer referral call: under the lish to a room full of excited children. Joel Cox Darren MacFarlane name “hao- Eastern Europe bao,” mean- 800.264.3489 800.461.3477 Ecotopia Romania • www.ecotopia.ngo.ro [email protected] [email protected] ing “good treasure.” Situated in large Serbian community The farm in a culturally rich area. There are three shops in the village, a pub and a public Warehouse: is flanked Portland, OR by ridges phone. The facilities are very basic: a www.gypsumsales.com Continued on page 26 Page 16 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 consumers Global Organics Meet your fellow organics shopper By Alyssa Sullivan Around the world, most A study from Spain consumers are motivated by similar showed that as consumer factors to purchase organics. confidence in the overall Through studies conducted agricultural food system internationally -including Austra- grows, consumers are less lia (2005), Canada (2004), Spain likely to participate in the (2006), and the U.S. (2006 and organic market. 7 That 2007)--two major factors seem to study also showed that persist when it comes to consumers’ if consumers are better decisions to choose organic over con- informed about organics, ventional: health and environmental the likelihood they will concerns. Health concerns include purchase organic increases. antibiotic/hormone use, food safety, As of now, few consumers and nutritional content. Environ- in Spain know about the mental concerns may include the benefits of organics. use of pesticides and their affects on Though some studies waterways and wildlife habitats. show that income does Certain age groups represent not matter in regards to the core organic consumers (who who will purchase organic strictly buy organics primarily) more products, many consum- than others. In North America, those between ages of 25 and 34, ers say that if prices were lower, they would be more willing to buy and those over 50 comprise most of the core organic consumers. organic. Seventy one percent of Australian organic consumers said 3,2 Studies suggest these age groups are interested in using organics they would buy more organics if prices were lower.4 Most consum- for preventative medicine, and may be attuned to issues surround- ers are still willing to pay a small price premium for organics, but ing organics, which contribute to their desire to purchase organic would prefer that premium to be smaller than it currently is. products. One possible reason for the acceptance of a price premium In Canada, women comprise most of the core organic shop- may be the desire to contribute to a healthier world. Seventy pers at 60 percent. 3 However, women likely make up the majority six percent of Australian organic consumers said that it is more of grocery shoppers in general. ethically responsible to purchase organic products as opposed to In 2006, The Hartman Group found that in the U.S., conventional products.6 Latino/Hispanic Americans make up most of the core organic con- In this age of conscious food choices, consumer attitudes can sumer group, with 65 percent of Latinos with children under five provide a wealth of information to producers and sellers in the using organics consistently1. Latino/Hispanic Americans are pri- organic marketplace. marily motivated by family concerns when it comes to the choice More research targeting the non-organic consumer is needed of buying organic products. African Americans, Latino/Hispanic to determine why they do not choose organic. These insights Americans, and Asian Americans are all more likely to purchase might provide priceless information to those who are interested in organic than Caucasian Americans.2 expanding the organic consumer base. Domestically, those living in the western states consume the most organics, compared to other regions in the U.S. In 2004, Sources: spending on organics was an average of $4.90 per capita on the 1-Hartman Group’s Oregon Tilth 2008 Winter Conference Presentation: west coast. 2 The Organic Marketplace For U.S. consumers, mainstream grocery stores are generally 2-www.choicesmagazine.org/2007-2/grabbag/2007-2-05.pdf where organics are purchased, 57 percent in 2004. 2 This dif- 3-www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/sis8434 fers from Australia, where only 20 percent of organic consumers 4-www.bfa.com.au/_files/x12aoj_022-023p.pdf (surveyed in 2005), bought from mainstream grocery stores. 5 This 5-www.bfa.com.au/_files/x03aoj_028-029p.pdf difference likely results from organics becoming more widely avail- 6-www.organicchoice.com.au/news.php?id=196 able in U.S. mainstream marketplaces than Australian. 7-Food Economics Acta Agricult Scand C, 2006; 3: 109-124 Title: Knowledge Fresh produce is often the first type of organic product a and willingness to pay for organic food in Spain: Evidence from experimental consumer might purchase, and makes up the largest portion of the auctions Authors: J.M. Gil and F. Soler. organic products sector. The organic meat sector has room to grow (at one percent of the organic market in North America, accord- Alyssa Sullivan is a student at Oregon State University, who ing to a Canadian report) while fruits and vegetables represent 41 recently interned with “the staff of In Good Tilth.” percent of the organic market.3

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 17 Beet-seed production grossed $4 million in Oregon in 2006, according to Bruce Pokarney, information officer for the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Beets as a whole were ranked 29th in A modern the state’s agricultural portfolio, earning $17 million. Roughly half the granulated sugar produced in the U.S. comes from sugar beets, and half from sugar cane, according to the USDA. Frank Morton, a beet-seed producer in Philomath, Ore., says that a GMO contamination of his seeds “would completely destroy Ghost story the market value of my crop. No organic grower would know- ingly be able to plant seed that they knew was contaminated with By Joel Preston Smith GMOs. They’d lose their certification, and when they go, there Organic agriculture is rapidly expanding in the U.S., but the goes my market.” threats to its survival often seem as little more than ghost stories to Wind-blown beet pollen can travel up to eight miles, but the the agencies charged with overseeing the nation’s farm productivity. vast majority of pollen travels less than one. In order to minimize In 2005, the latest year for which the U.S. Department of Ag- cross-pollination (and therefore protect the market value) of variet- riculture publishes data, U.S. demand for certified organic products ies such as white or pink beets, a buffer zone of up to four miles was up 21 percent over 2004. “We’re seeing rapid growth in organic was established between growers by the Willamette Valley Specialty fruit and vegetable production, and a good, steady growth in organic Seed Crops Association. The association has no legal authority over overall,” says Catherine R. Greene, senior agricultural economist for farmers, and adherence to the guidelines is somewhat voluntary. the USDA’s Economic Research Service. Morton argues that the restrictions are largely useless if GMO Organic farms are expanding their acreage, and there has been crops are surreptitiously planted within the buffer. a consistent rise in the number of new organic farms in the U.S. “I know of an organic farm that’s right smack up against a since 2001. Greene says the USDA expects the trend to continue as sugar-beet field. Does that farmer know if there’s GMO sugar beets “demand for organic increases worldwide.” Why then as some argue there? Hell no. No one is notifying us, and nobody’s talking about are threats to both organic and conventional farming an after- it.” thought on the part of USDA and other agencies? Roundup Ready beets also carry the insidious trait of readily crossing with table beets and Swiss chard—a circumstance that Sweet and sour threatens the organic market for those products, and for pack- This spring, Oregon will be among the first states in the aged salads containing beet seeds or chard. The beets are termed nation to yield acreage to genetically modified sugar beets, which “Roundup Ready” because they’ve been encoded with a gene that were deregulated by the USDA in 2005. According to the Oregon protects them from glyphosate, Monsanto’s patented herbicide, Department of Agriculture, plantings of Monsanto’s Roundup sold under the trade name of Roundup. Ready beets are slated for both Malheur County, near the Idaho Regardless of whether the plaintiffs (including the Sierra border, and the Willamette Valley, where the vast majority of sugar Club, Earthjustice, and High Mowing Organic Seeds) succeed in beet seeds are produced in the U.S. Fears that modified beets will forcing a ban on GMO beet plantings, many agree that GMO contaminate existing crops—and therefore destroy the state’s beet- plantings should be a transparent process. Morton believes that seed industry—have sparked a new lawsuit against the USDA, based state or federal agencies should require that GMO plantings be on charges that the agency has considered neither the economic nor transparent to the farming community, “so that we can adapt our the environmental impacts of the plantings. practices to protect our crops.” The lawsuit, filed Jan. 23 in U.S. Federal Court, has shades “We want the government to review what the potential for of the region’s timber wars, in which environmentalists saddled the cross contamination is,” Golden adds, “and we want them to dis- Forest Service in the mid-90s with dozens of timber-sale injunc- close where these sugar beets are being grown.” tions, charging the agency with negligent management and shoddy science. Getting bent “We’re asking that the deregulation of sugar beets by the How many acres of Roundup Ready beets will Oregon host USDA be rescinded, and that GMO sugar beets be considered a this spring? “There’s nobody federal or state who could give you pest species under the federal Plant Protection Act,” Kevin Golden, that number,” admits Dan Hilburn, administrator the Oregon staff attorney for the Center for Food Safety, one of the plaintiffs in Department of Agriculture’s Plant Division. “There aren’t any state the suit. The Plant Protection Act of 2000 prohibits the commercial regulations for genetically engineered crops, and there aren’t any planting or dissemination of invasive or destructive species. management programs.” Golden alleges that the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Ironically, in 2003 Oregon earned the dubious distinction Inspection Service did not adequately consider the economic impact of hosting the first documented crossover of a modified gene into on beet-seed growers in the Willamette Valley or on the industry as a wild plant population in the U.S., according to the Environmen- a whole. tal Protection Agency. Pollen from a USDA-approved 1100-acre

Page 18 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 the plant. There are additional costs for site control plot of Roundup Ready creeping Hell at Eden’s gate visits to supplier’s farms, record keeping and bentgrass drifted as far as 13 miles, leading Golden notes that if the lawsuit is other expenses associated with fending off to a hybridization of native bentgrass in successful, it will provide some measure of GE incursions into Eden foods. Douglas County in Central Oregon. protection for organic farmers and conven- “We banned GE food in 1993,” Potter Hilden says that when the Oregon tional farmers who don’t want their hybrids remarks, “and since that moment, we’ve Department of Agriculture requested contaminated, “because we’ll have defined done what our customers expected us to do; further information about the GMO crop, GE crops as a plant pest.” we’ve kept it out of everything we put on the USDA sent the agency a report with the The lawsuit, however, would not the market. The promise is relatively easy essential scientific information redacted. establish liability for individual growers compared with the process of avoiding get- “Without that information,” he who choose to plant the genetic constructs. ting them into our foods. In a nutshell, it’s explains, “we don’t really know what’s going Lawsuits against individual growers may one hell of a lot of work.” on in the test plots.” See sidebar page 22. ultimately prove more effective in limiting Potter says wryly, “If sophisticated According to the USDA, there are cur- the intrusion of GE crops than litigation Hollywood writers were tasked with writing rently 19 active test plots for GMO crops in aimed at federal agencies such as the USDA, a screenplay that would destroy the value of Oregon. or corporate giants such as Monsanto. organic in the public’s mind, a better one Bill Freese, science policy analyst for The financial burden of testing for could not have happened than what hap- the Center for Food Safety, notes that the cross contamination in organic foods, pened with the partnership between USDA USDA does require researchers to obtain a and the loss of domestic and foreign sales and Big Ag. The only hope for the survival permit prior to conducting open-air field continues to unravel the pockets of organic of good, clean organic food in the U.S. is a trials of genetically modified plants, “but farmers, distributors and consumers alike. more knowledgeable, interested and active it doesn’t assess the environmental impact Mike Potter, founder and chief executive of those projects, or look at whether there’s officer for Eden Continued on page 22 cross pollination from the trials in organic Foods, an organic or conventional crops.” supplier in Clinton, The sugar-beet lawsuit also alleges that Mich., says Eden the USDA has ignored the environmental has stopped manu- impacts of herbicide use associated—accord- facturing nearly all ing to some studies—with Roundup Ready corn-based prod- ucts, due to a high crops. Charles Benbrook, former chair of ® the National Academy of Science’s Board of prevalence of GE Agriculture, says that genetically engineered contamination in crops catalyzed a 15-fold increase in the use the U.S. corn crop. Northwest Southwest of herbicides in the U.S. from 1994 through In order 22 30th St. NE P.O. Box 967 2004. to produce its Suite #102 Mira Loma, CA 91752 One consequence of increased best-know organic Auburn, WA 98002 (530) 889-9531 herbicide use, according to Doug Gurian- product—Eden (253) 333-6769 Sherman, senior scientist with the Union Soy—Potter of Concerned Scientists, is a growing threat switched from corn from invasive and alien species resistant malt to wheat malt Northern California Pacific to Roundup and other weed killers. In in 1994, tripling 1101 Sunset Boulevard P.O. Box 247 the U.S. soybean belt, at least 10 weed the company’s pro- Rocklin, CA 95765-3710 Kealakekua, Hawaii 96750 speciesincluding ragweed, pigweed and duction cost for soy (530) 889-9531 (808) 322-6633 lamb’s quarter“are now resistant to Round- milk. Potter says his up.” Other scientists and environmental company maintains groups assert that mare’s tail, waterhemp a rigorous testing Visit us on the web at www.unfiw.com and morning glory have also developed program, pull- resistance to glyphosate. ing samples from Christopher C. Mundt, professor of trucks transporting plant pathology at Oregon State University, soybeans or other observes, “There’s no question that if you crops, and running keep using the same herbicide over and over, lab reports on them you’re going to get resistance to it. It’s not a before trucks are question of if. It’s a question of when.” even unloaded at

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 19 Yard Garden& Grow up! By Kathy at home as a way to Dang produce your own trellis building materi- Grow- als on site. Especially handy, are the natural ing notches on bamboo, which make it easy to vegetables secure knots for trellis structures with twine vertically or string. For added strength you can even can be a drill and screw joints together for a perma- fun way nent or load bearing trellis. for urban Other practical materials for trellising gardeners are tree prunings from your yard. One year to grow I used branches pruned from a vine maple a variety to create a teepee for early spring peas. The of vining branches easily wove together with little crops and effort and provided a natural “net” for the help to tiny pea tendrils to attach to. utilize lim- In addition to these natural materi- ited garden als, you can find plastic or wooden poles space and metal stakes efficiently. Growing vertically by trellis is a at local nurseries. All of your versatile and creative and functional Before selecting favorite fruiting crops, in- way to increase yields in a small the length of poles cluding, tomatoes, squash, space. Photos by Kathy Dang. needed for your cucumbers, beans, peas and trellis-building even gourds, can be encour- project, be sure aged to climb upwards to research the using trellising techniques. crop variety you And you can grow more in are planting to a small space by planting find out how tall companion crops underneath it will grow. Wire or around them. mesh and nylon In addition to being an trellis netting can attractive way to grow your be added to your vegetables, vertical gardening stakes to provide is also very functional. It al- more places for lows for air to circulate around your plants to and into your plants, helping attach to. When to prevent common fungal deciding on where diseases such as blight to your to locate your tomatoes or powdery mildew to new trellis be your squash and cucumbers. Growing sure to choose an area that will not vertically also increases the amount of it created a beautiful edible backdrop for my veggie garden. Another season, I grew create unwanted shade onto neighbor- sun exposure to the developing flow- ing beds. ers and fruits on your crops, helping a mix of Scarlet Runner beans and Cascade your crops ripen earlier and be more hops about 20 feet high up the backside Trellis options productive. of my deck, which created some shade to enjoy during the hot summer months. The sky’s the limit with the size Using trellises in the garden can and shape of trellises you can create also allow you to create new shady in your garden. Be creative and think areas or help to beautify entryways in Trellis building materials My all time favorite trellis building about what trellis will serve the growth your yard. If you have a view you’d habit of the crops you want to grow. like to block or an unattractive struc- material is bamboo. It is one of the stron- gest and most versatile renewable build- Here are two simple trellising tech- ture you’d like to hide, you can use niques to get you started that have vines to cover them or add privacy ing materials and can be reused year after year. It is easily found at your local plant proved to be successful for growing to your garden. I once grew a pro- vertical veggies in the Tilth gardens. ductive crop of pole beans alongside nursery, or in a neighbor’s yard (remember an unattractive chain link fence and to ask), and you can also grow bamboo Continued on page 30 Page 20 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Yard Companion planting Garden&

By Kathy Dang Pest control and adding diversity Increasing yields in a small space Many backyard gardeners have em- Today, the most common applica- Another benefit of companion plant- braced the practice of companion planting tions of companion planting are for pest ing is that it allows you to increase your to help add diversity to their veggie patch control, often by attracting beneficial bugs yield in a small space. You can do this or attract beneficial insects to the garden. to the garden using flowers. Even though by growing short and long season crops Simply put, companion planting is the companion planting will not eliminate pest together. For example, radishes are one of practice of placing plants together in the problems, it will help keep a healthy bal- the quickest crops to mature, taking about garden that have a beneficial relationship ance of good bugs in the garden ecosystem. 30 days to maturity. Carrots, on the other on one another. Beyond adding diversity Integrating blooming flowers and hand, require some patience and can take to a small garden, this technique can herbs into your vegetable garden up to 150 days to mature depending on the help control common gar- will help attract benefi- variety. By sowing radish and carrot seed den pests and increase cial insects, such as at the same time in the same bed, you can yields by utilizing pollinators for optimize your space. Once the radishes are space efficiently. your fruiting harvested they will leave more space for crops and the carrots to grow, giving you a successive Traditional predators to harvest. Lettuce and onions are also good companion companions for this reason. You can come up with your own combina- planting tions of companion plants by Compan- consulting the number of ion planting has days to maturity found on a long history, most seed packets. beginning with the Combining plants “three sisters,” a Native together also helps to American planting technique Companion planting is a make use of limited where corn, beans and squash keystone of organic farming. garden space by plant- are grouped together. In this Photos by Kathy Dang. ing root crops with planting combination, each leafy crops, optimiz- plant helps to support and feed garden ing the root zone in the benefit the others. The corn stalks provide pests. Espe- soil as well as the space a natural trellis for the beans to grow up. cially important, above the ground. Beets and As the beans grow up the corn, they help are plants in the carrots planted with broccoli to anchor the corn in the ground, encour- Umbelliferae family, (in- and cabbage make great use of space aging them to produce strong roots. The cluding parsley, carrot, dill, celery, caraway both below and above ground if you have beans also fix nitrogen, meaning they take and lovage) which have umbrella shaped limited garden space. nitrogen from the air and convert it into a flower heads that provide an easily acces- Companion planting can be a creative form that plants can use. They do this with sible source of nectar to good bugs and are way to add diversity to the garden. It helps the help from beneficial bacteria living on fantastic attractors of beneficial insects. us move away from a monoculture and its roots, inside tiny nitrogen nodules. You Some favorite edible flowers and culinary into mixed polycultural plantings of diverse can find nitrogen nodules on the roots of herbs for companion planting include, crops, varieties, flowers and perennials all any legume plant. These special nitrogen- borage, calendula, nasturtiums, marigolds, in the same bed. This is one way we can in- fixing bacteria are fed sugars exuded from thyme, chives, rosemary, sorrel, sage and crease our backyard biodiversity and garden plant roots in exchange for fixing nitrogen. lemon verbena. how nature intended. Be sure to keep a gar- The corn, a heavy feeder, benefits from the While some plants attract beneficial den log of notes on how your companions nitrogen produced by the beans. The third insects, other plants are good at deter- did so you can replicate and build on your sister, squash, grows throughout the corn ring pests because of their strong aromatic successes. Carrots Love Tomatoes by Lousie and beans and covers the ground with its scent. One example of this is planting Riotte is a great resource on companion large leaves acting as living mulch. It helps Allium family crops throughout the garden planting for the backyard garden. to shade the soil, preventing soil moisture because their strong smell can throw pests from evaporating and suppressing weeds. off course when looking for a host crop. Kathy Dang is the Organic Education At the end of the season after harvest, the Planting alternate rows of onions and Center Garden Coordinator. crop residues are incorporated back into carrots will help prevent the carrot rust fly the soil to build up soil organic matter and from discovering a carrot crop amidst the improve soil structure. onions.

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 21 Trouble in paradise By Andrew Black million acres with test plot sizes rang- genetic manipulation and field testing of Within the U.S., ing from a fraction of an acre to more taro and House Bill 1577 that would place Puerto Rico, and than 34,000 acres. Mr. King said that a five year ban on outdoor planting and the Virgin Islands in 2007, the average size of GM field field trials of genetically modified coffee last year, the test sites was 104.8 acres on a total of plants. The ban on genetic engineering of USDA granted 106, 400 acres that were permitted for taro, or Kalo as it is called by Hawaiians, is biotech compa- field-testing. especially important because Kalo is consid- nies and research The corn-belt states of Illinois, ered a sacred food and ancestor according universities a total Iowa, and Indiana have been home to to the Hawaiian creation story. Talking of 881 permits nearly one third of permitted GM field to Free Speech Radio (1/22/08 Broadcast) to conduct open field tests of genetically tests in the last twenty years. The islands above the din of chanting protesters at modified crops. The permits allowed for of Hawaii and Puerto Rico nearly rival this the Palace Grounds next to Hawaii’s state trials at more than 19,000 field test sites. popularity with sites for 27 percent of all capital, activist Walter Ritte Jr. explained These sites are kept secret from farmers and permitted field tests. In Hawaii alone last why Hawaiians are so passionate about the the public. Even state Agricultural Depart- year, the biotech industry was permitted ban on genetically engineered Kalo. “Kalo ments are only given the county where tests to grow experimental GM crops at more is not papaya. It’s not turnips, celery, or just will occur. In many cases, the identity of than 2,400 test sites, more than triple the another plant. Its our eldest brother,” said donor organisms are secret. amount of permitted field test sites in Or- Mr. Ritte, “You hear all that noise going on Doug King, a data specialist at Virginia egon. Although biotech has set up camp in in the background? Those are Hawaiians Tech, maintains a database about GMO Hawaii, activists there have been trying to saying leave our eldest brother alone.” test plots complete with charts and tables protect their cultural heritage from genetic While activists continue to resist updated weekly from data sent by the manipulation. biotech in the courtrooms and on capital USDA’s Biotechnology Regulatory Service. At the opening of the 2008 Hawaii steps, the genetic integrity of humanity’s Since field-testing began in the U.S. in legislature in January, activists rallied to traditional and sacred food crops will likely 1987, Mr. King calculates that permits were show continued support for Senate Bill depend on the seed saving efforts of organic handed out for field tests on roughly 1.03 958 that would place a ten year ban on farmers in the early part of the 21st century. GMOs

Continued from page 19 of approving the GE crop for commercial American public.” production. “Ultimately, that He believes the USDA will continue kind of protection is to resist informing farmers of the locations going to come from of GE plantings and test plots, and that he liability laws that make and other farmers will likely remain invis- biotech companies ible to the U.S. government, and certainly responsible for the to biotech giants such as Monsanto. Like contamination of other Potter, he pins his highest hopes for his sur- crops,” Freese believes. vival, and that of other farmers, on outspo- Morton says he ken consumers. has limited hopes for “Monsanto will always be able to buy the lawsuit. He feels the their way through any regulatory system,” plaintiffs stand a good Morton laments. “It’s our job as farmers chance of winning, to let the public know that pretty soon, based on a precedent everything they eat that’s got sugar in it is set by a March 2007 Roundup Ready. It’s up to them to put the court-mandated ban on pressure on, by not buying GMO prod- plantings of Monsanto’s ucts.” Roundup Ready alfalfa. Joel Preston Smith is a freelance writer As with the sugar beet and photographer based in Portland. suit, multiple plaintiffs He is the author of Night of a Thou- alleged that the USDA sand Stars and Other Portraits of Iraq had not adequately stud- (Nazraeli Press: 2006) and a contributor ied the environmental to five other books. and economic impacts Page 22 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 OEC gardens The universal garden freshen up

Kathy Dang

Continued from page 7 interacts with the larger community and Multi-lingual classes at the OEC are a hallmark of the Emerging natural world. Farmer Training Series. Photo by Drew Katz. These field trips offer a comprehen- By Drew Katz sive view of the farm for local elementary On a cold and rainy February morning In order to effectively address the needs students in Lake Oswego and Clackamas at Jean’s Farm in SE Portland, a group of 15 and aspirations of the local refugee and im- Counties. Learning includes; vermi-com- farmers are gathered together underneath a migrant farming community, it has taken a posting, composting, planting seeds, basic hoop house, listening attentively to Marci true collaborative effort on the part of local botany, cover cropping, beneficial insects, Krass, Oregon Tilth’s Education Coordina- dedicated and passionate organizations and and local food systems - to name a few. tor explaining how to develop a crop plan. individuals. Along with our partners, we will connect To add to the peculiarity of the setting, all “After last year’s training series, it was visiting youth to both garden and farm- of the farmers are wearing transceivers wired apparent that the farmers gained a lot from scale agriculture, and provide participants to headphones, through which Marci’s voice the interactive experiences they had in the with a rich farm experience. is being transmitted simultaneously in four classes. Seminars and power points don’t al- Kathy Dang joined the Organic Educa- different languages. ways translate well, linguistically nor cultur- tion Center team in early March as a Gar- Welcome to the Emerging Farmer ally,” says Drew Katz, Coordinator of Mercy den Coordinator. She brings to us many Training Series, an offering of nine classes Corps Northwest’s New American Agri- years’ of experience in teaching and organic that teach agricultural risk management culture Project, which brokers land access, gardening, as well as boundless enthusiasm skills to refugee and immigrant farmers in offers asset development programs, and pro- for sharing her love of plants with the com- the Portland Metropolitan area. Organized vides marketing support for disadvantaged munity. Kathy has spent the past six years by Friends of Zenger Farm, and supported producers in Oregon. “The excitement of working for our sister organization, Seattle by partner organizations Oregon Tilth, the farmers tasting and learning about kale Tilth –a non-profit cultivating commu- Mercy Corps Northwest, 47th Ave Farm, for the first time, a green that thrives in our nity– one garden at a time. We’re thrilled and OSU Extension, the training series was climate, reiterates the importance of teach- she moved to Portland to help us support created to address the needs voiced by local ing these farmers techniques in the context local organic agriculture and sustainable refugee and immigrant farmers during two of being out on the land rather than in a food systems. marketing workshops hosted by the Office classroom.” explains Marci. This spring we also bid farewell to of Sustainable Development in 2004 and The training series wouldn’t be pos- Anne Eschenroeder who has spent the last 2005. sible without the assistance of interpreters, 15 months helping us grow and shape our The series covers a variety of regionally who simultaneously translate instructor’s programs both as an AmeriCorps Volunteer focused topics, including pest manage- presentations into Spanish, Hmong, Mein, and staff member. Anne will be heading ment, production, marketing, farm business and Russian. The simultaneous translation to UC Santa Cruz to participate in an management, and more. In its second year, equipment is provided by Zenger Farm. Apprenticeship in Ecological Horticulture. the series has seen an increase in atten- Petr and Tatyana Puzur, an immigrant We wish her all the best with her future dance, with over 20 different refugee and couple from Russia, have attended every endeavors! immigrant farmers attending the first eight class in the series, and plan to start farming If you are interested in learning more classes. Farmers participating in this year’s on an acre of land in southern Washington, about our programming, upcoming events, series hail from across the globe, including which they acquired with the help of Mercy how to get involved, or to receive our E- Eastern Europe, Central Asia, SE Asia, and Corps Northwest. newsletter, please visit our website at www. Mexico. tilth.org. Drew Katz works with Mercy Corps NW. Marci Krass is the Organic Education Center Program Coodinator

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 23 If I was a

Superdelegate

By Zoë Bradbury He might remember that I graduated fordable for new and existing farmers. As the Democratic primary grinds on summa cum laude from Stanford with We need equitable access to credit neck and neck, national attention is fixed Chelsea, at which point he’d probably stop and capital. No regular bank wants to loan on the controversial voting power of super- mid-sentence and - a bit puzzled - ask, “So money to a farmer; we’re seen as too “high delegates. One superdelegate vote equals you’re farming now?” risk.” We need financial institutions and about 90,558 citizen votes, and superdel- My reply would be quick: “Farmers programs that will make it possible to get egates – most of whom are party insiders are getting to be an endangered species, business loans at reasonable interest rates so – are free to Bill. The we can buy land, afford equipment, invest in vote for which- average infrastructure, and grow our businesses. ever candidate We need policy that will age of And Bill, we need profitable markets they choose. Ameri- and policy that’ll reward family farmers for This year with keep farmland available and can growing good food, instead of spending the Democratic farmers billions in taxpayer dollars to subsidize high race so close, affordable for new and has risen fructose corn syrup, ethanol, a dead zone in superdelegate to an the Gulf of Mexico, an obesity epidemic, superpower existing farmers. all-time and millionaire “farmers” like Ted Turner could for the high of who are collecting six-digit government first time ever decide the Democratic Party 57, and in Oregon alone up to half of the subsidy checks each year. nominee. farmland is expected to change hands in In short, Bill, it’s time for a presidential It’s not surprising then that Bill the next decade as farmers retire. Have you candidate who will go to bat for a strong, Clinton is calling up superdelegates. Who ever stopped to wonder what you’re going secure, fair food future and support a next wouldn’t want someone with voting super- to eat if there aren’t any farmers to grow generation of farmers in America.” powers on their team? your groceries down the road? In the name I find myself playing this conversation I’d love to get one of those calls from of homeland food security, it’s time for a over in my head every day. The thing is, I’m Bill. Of course, he’d probably get the presidential candidate to prioritize food, not a superdelegate and Bill Clinton hasn’t answering machine because I’m a farmer. farmland and farmers.” left any messages on my answering machine I’m 28, just started my own operation, and “Huh,” he says. “Well, what do farm- lately. To the 795 superdelegates who will be have been going sun-up to sundown to get ers need?” casting their votes at the Democratic con- seeds in the ground, build infrastructure, The list is perched on my tongue. vention this summer, I say this: listen to the and dig a mile of ditch for a new irriga- “First off, access to affordable farm- voters and get behind the candidate who will tion system. I’m also working another job land. Farmers are getting priced out of the take the strongest stand for a healthy, green, so I can pay for start-up expenses, afford market by development pressure. In a lot fair, affordable food system in this country. my catastrophic health insurance, and not of places they’re selling out because they Our dinner depends on it. default on my mortgage. I guess you could can pocket more cash by planting condos say there are a few issues I’d like to talk to in their fields than carrots. We need policy Zoë Bradbury is a farmer and a Bill about. that will keep farmland available and af- Food & Society Policy Fellow.

Page 24 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Field notes from the farmer to farmer exchange By Nick Andrews and Andrew Rodman While the eyes of America tuned to Hollywood on Oscar Night, the real stars of our culture were meeting in the woods F 2 F X and talking farming. The occasion was the sixth annual NW Farmer to Farmer Exchange, a gathering that brought 48 organic farmers together to Brietenbush to share stories, ideas, and skills. This event was not a celebration of escapist entertain- ment, but real ways to improve biologically responsible farming. Topics of discussion included creative control methods, increas- ing efficiency, growing farmers, safety, and children on the farm, among others. Creative controls A tractor mounted conveyor can radically increase harvest efficiency. Farmer Aha’s and Uh-Oh’s are always This one on Praying Mantis Farm in Canby. revealing. Here are some highlights shared at the exchange. Scott from Nash’s Produce Using this tool, a 10-12 acre crop of winter the hopper in either a drop spreader or seed in WA, gets creative when preparing a stale squash can be picked in three days. The drill, especially when they are mixed with seedbed for direct seeded crops. Rather squash are loaded to the conveyor and a larger seed. than flaming, now he uses a light basket goose-neck puts them into a tote or pickup The most efficient workers are skilled weeder on a 10-day, two week old bed. bed towed behind the tractor. A con- and motivated. One farmer noted she no He drives fast, and saves propane. Elanor veyor shipped from Michigan costs about longer shies from letting workers go if they O’Brien from Persephone Farm finds trap $12,000 but paid for itself in one year, aren’t performing well, as it impacts her cropping to be effective. She had success with an increase in productivity. Soil com- happiness and the productivity of her other controlling cucumber beetles by planting paction during wet fall weather is reduced workers. All in attendance noted that men- a perimeter crop of Maxima winter squash since the tractor doesn’t have to drive over toring your employees well is the best way around her cucumber rows. Buttercup and as much of the field. to avoid problems down the road. Capocha varieties work well also, and have Blue Heron Farm up in Skagit uses the advantage of being marketable. three tractor-mounted Planet Junior seed- Safety and hazards Slugs are often problematic, espe- ers on a bar for their carrots. They experi- Worker safety on the farm is an issue cially in the Coast Range. Wali Via from enced poor stands when the seedbed they that many overlook to their own peril. Staff Wintergreen Farms in Noti, reported using were preparing wasn’t really smooth, so safety meetings are required every month. woven poly wire or tape of electric fence they dragged a 4x4 piece of wood behind Safety laws are strict, and if you have more laid on bare ground - about 400’ of it - as the tractor - in front of the seeder - and got than about 12 employees you can trigger a control. They have at least two lines of a much finer seed bed and better results. visit from an inspector. wire. Survivors of the first line are zapped Casey and Katie Kulla from Oakhill Even organic amendments should be by the second. Organics are wild about the gator they handled with care. Be sure to follow the bought to move pickings and haul every- safety instructions on the label to the letter. Efficiency thing around the fields and into the barn, Some powdery amendments require the use it works well even in very wet weather. With tight profit margins and increas- of a respirator. Be aware however, that if an Meanwhile, John Eveland from Gather- es in energy costs, efficiency becomes a cor- employee is asthmatic, that using a respira- ing Together Farm swears by small flatbed nerstone of profitability. Efficiency can be tor could trigger an attack. pickup trucks for the same usage. achieved by a good crew, good equipment, Nick Andrews from OSU Extension or just refining your system over time. The apprenticeship vex suggests that when seeding with large and Steve Fry uses a conveyor that attaches Apprenticeship programs are strictly small seeds, to use rice hulls in roughly a to the back of the tractor, it swings 27’ defined by Federal Rules. According to the 50/50 by volume with your seeds. It helps out into the field. The conveyor runs off Bureau of Labor, you cannot use interns to since the rice hulls hold the small seeds the tractor, (similar to photo above) and avoid paying someone else for work. Terms (i.e. phacelia, crimson clover, red clover, everyone gets into a productive groove. of compensation are strictly spelled out as etc.) so they don’t settle to the bottom of Continued on page 29

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 25 Global Food miles Organics Greening Europe - farm by farm Continued on page 16 through a beautiful landscape of rugged S. Europe / Italy primitive compost toilet, cold running pasture, ancient woodlands and ponds. Torri Superiore Ecovillage • www.torri-supe- water in the kitchen and in the volunteers’ Rainton Farm has a herd of 85 traditional riore.org room, heating and cooking with wood- Ayrshire dairy cows. Sheep are alternated The 13th century medieval village of burning stoves. The garden is quite large, with the cattle on the lush pastures and Torri Superiore is situated a few miles from but only part of it can be cultivated and the farm has a flock of 500 breeding ewes the Mediterranean Sea and the French they grow various vegetables. The back of including Scottish blackface, Shetland and border. It is a complex and fascinating the garden is blessed with fruit trees and crossbreeds. The livestock gained organic structure that is developed on eight levels, a small vineyard. Ecotopia Romania aims status in July 2001. The farm provides with three main buildings separated by two to offer resources for the local community habitat for many important species, some partially covered inner alleys. The hamlet while developing eco-tourism in the area. of the ant-hills found in the grassland are is composed of 160 rooms with barrel or The kindergarten and youth center started over 100 years old, demonstrating a conti- cross-vaulted ceilings, linked by an amaz- in 2002 and offers educational activities nuity of careful management. Guided tours ing labyrinth of stairways, terraces and for 10-15 children between four and seven are available. alleys. Today it is mostly restored and open years old. to ecologically minded visitors for cultural W. Europe / France N. Europe / Scotland initiatives and group activities. They offer workshops related to sustainability, com- Rainton Farm • www.creamogalloway.co.uk/ munal living and care of people and of the Cream o’ Galloway ice cream (with environment. The resident community has eight organic flavors) is based out of Rain- 16 members, including five children, and ton Farm in Scotland, a 329 hectare farm an organic farm with small-scale produc- lying amongst the rolling hills of Galloway. tion of olive oil, vegetables and fruit. Since 1927, it has been run by the Finlay family. A walk around the farm trail leads Canada

Beauchamp • www.beau- champ24.com Beauchamp is a beau- tiful field on the edge of Dordogne in the south west of France. Bought neglected 15 years ago, hundreds of people helped it come to life again. There are eight hectares Loftsedt Farm • British Columbia • - mostly woods, a field and a mypage.direct.ca/l/lofstedtfarm/ pond, gardens and an orchard. Situated in a small valley parallel to Residents have opted for living Kootenay Lake, high mountains sur- a simple life that is affordable round the farm and keep the climate mild for many, doing as much as in summer and winter. With the help of they can to be self sufficient. countless contributors eager to learn and They use composting toilets experience life on the land, a pioneer- and their grey water is pro- ing model has taken shape, with barns, cessed by a reed-bed system stables, sheds, chicken coop, bee house, that feeds into a pond full of workshops, food processing facilities, fish, which is then pumped to etc. complemented by an old-fashioned water the gardens. Beauchamp outdoor bread oven. The main source of is an non-profit organization income is the 60-family CSA, provid- that aims to develop the site ing weekly delivery of fresh vegetables to following the philosophy of Nelson and Kaslo 10 months of each year. permaculture, not a well-un- Farm animals includes four Norwegian derstood concept in France. Fjord horses for riding, who are learning

Page 26 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Food miles Global Organics Sustainability down south to do farm work. They produce their own dren alike can be exposed to the ideals of migrating to the slums of San Paulo and hay and grain, and have planted a small permaculture and sustainability. They grow other cities. IPB’s Dryland Polyculture Proj- orchard. All the compost is made on the over 100 tropical fruits, vegetables, herbs, ect works with 1,000 farmer families and farm. medicinals and nuts. Rainwater is used for is awarded subsidies through the National washing and drinking. Punta Mona hosts Environmental Fund for Combating De- Mexico educational and retreat groups, interns and sertification. The Polyculture project, began Los Horcones • guests for a few nights. Instant immersion in 1999, showed an alternative to an agri- www.loshorcones.org/index_eng.html into a sustainable-living, energy-conscious, cultural system that had come to depend Founded 1973, the community sits off the grid experience, complete with com- heavily on irrigation and chemical inputs. on 250 acres in the suburbs of Hermosillo, posting toilets, hand powered grinders and Locals participate in plantation activities Sonora in northwestern Mexico. Their loud howler monkeys. Punta Mona’s door and field management. Youngsters and objective is to design and develop an alter- is open to those who wish to contribute to young women of 16 to 25 years old from native society or culture based on the prin- the farm and catch a glimpse of this beauti- city-targets have been trained to become ciples of cooperation, equality, sharing and ful jungle farm community while learning local facilitators. Today the project boasts of ecological respect . Los Horcones is partly preservation and sustainable development 500 demonstration fields on farmers’ plots. self-sufficient in food, with a tangerine, of tropical rainforest land. The world is abuzz with models for orange, grapefruit and lime tree orchard. positive change. Now that you have had The community raises around 200 chickens South America a virtual tour, get packing. Most of these and turkeys, for eggs and meat. They also places you can visit, volunteer and even raise rabbits fed partly with homegrown move to. Bon Voyage! alfalfa. Pigs are fed with the whey left over from cheese-making, and food scraps from Erin Volheim lives and writes from the the kitchen and vegetable garden. They Little Applegate Valley of Oregon. also make their own granola, whole wheat tortillas, bread and muffins which are also sold as a source of income, including mar- Instituto de Perma- malades and herb vinegars. cultura da Bahia (IPB) • www.per- Americas/ Costa Rica macultura-bahia. Punta Mona Center for Sustainable Living org.br/eng_historia. and Education (PCSE) asp Punta Mona is a 100-acre organic Known for its farm and center for sustainable living and rainforests, Brazil education located on the southern Carib- contains a large bean coast of Costa Rica. Punta Mona semi-arid region of provides a center where adults and chil- about one million square kilometres and grow- ing! Much of this is severely degraded beyond the carrying capacity of the land. Agriculture in this region is collapsing, with many of the able- bodied men and women

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 27 Book Review Deprogramming from on a box of sugary ce- the nutrition cult from the real than a raw potato Western diet, or a carrot, with the In Defense of Food, An Eater’s Manifesto with obesity perverse result that By Michael Pollan, 244 pages, Penguin and diabetes the most healthful Press, Hardcover, $21.95 considered the foods sit there qui- norm. etly as stroke victims, Review by Andrew Rodman Why is while a few aisles Initially, I was hesitant to review our diet so over …Cocoa Puffs Michael Pollan’s newest opus In Defense deadly in a and Lucky Charms of Food, An Eater’s Manifesto. What other world where are screaming their foodie scribe has garnered so much atten- other cultures newfound ‘whole- tion? But there were overriding currents are far heavier grain goodness’ to the at play. As long as I can remember, the eaters? Pollan rafters.” ingredient lists on my packaged foods observes that With chapters struck me as bad science fiction. I often “no people on like “The Melting of came home from the store empty-handed, earth worry the Lipid Hypothesis” not finding anything edible. Pollan’s epic more about and “Eat Right, Get Omnivore’s Dilemma, with its focus on corn the health Fatter,” Pollan wastes and meat, missed the heart of my own consequences little ink fleshing out private dilemma. of their food his thesis which is That a book called In Defense of Food choices than well-researched, and has to exist in the first place is evidence we Americans do – and no people suffer highly entertaining. of a “food” system wildly off kilter. As a from as many diet-related health prob- Pollan’s work is replete with common nation of corn and soy eaters, fed through lems.” Why are traditional diets so much sense suggestions like “Don’t eat anything drive-thru windows, Pollan emerges as the healthier? Why is a diet of seeds (corn, soy, your great grandmother wouldn’t recognize foremost food thinker of our times. With wheat) so much worse for health than that as food,” “Don’t eat anything incapable of his trademark wit, accessibility and deadly of leaves? What is wrong with the claims rotting,” “Avoid food products contain- accuracy, Pollan has an uncanny knack of of low-fat and whole grain goodness? How ing ingredients that you are A)Unfamiliar delving deep into the arcane biology of about the correlation between our national with B) Unpronouncable, C) More than nutrients to lay bare our culinary psyche. over-consumption of anti-inflamnatories five in number, or that include high-fruc- At a recent talk in Portland, Pollan said and the abundance of Omega 6 in our tose corn syrup.” “Avoid foods that make the motivation for Defense was to address diets? Like many a Pollan-ovoire, I had no health claims,” “Shop at the peripheries of some of the dangling points with Dilemma. idea why any of this was important for my supermarkets and stay out of the middle,” Foremost in his sights this time, is the personal, or culture’s well being, until I and “Get out of the supermarket whenever ideology of Nutritionism, that reductive breezed through this book. possible.” With the revitalization of farmers food science which allows the nutritive Pollan examines the work of pioneer- markets, CSAs and natural foods stores, we th components of food to be broken down ing 19 century nutritionists William Prout dont have to withdraw from civilization to and switched around willy-nilly, suiting the and later Justus von Liebig, and declares do the latter. needs of industry while enticing us with that “food was driven into a corner and Pollan argues the best way to process bewildering variations of foodstuffs. Natu- forced to reveal its secrets.” Vitamins were our food is by using basic ingredients in the rally, consumers are dizzy under the spell of synthesized in 1912, adding legitimacy to kitchen, not buying the latest mutations food scientists and marketers. As a result, the emerging science of nutrition. But, “It from Sara Lee or Archer Daniel Midland. th we have seen record numbers of deaths wasn’t until the 20 century that nutrients In Defense of Food won’t come as began to push foods aside in the particularly ground-breaking to readers hip LOCAL GRASS-FED MEATS popular imagination of what it to the tenants of sustainable agriculture or CERTIFIED ORGANIC PRODUCE means to eat.” The scrambling of • ANTIBIOTIC/HORMONE-FREE down with the importance of whole foods, POULTRY the nutritive properties of food, • BULK FOODS, HERBS & SPICES which I suspect many readers of this review • NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS mixed with lassie-fair regulatory • HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES are. But the importance of this work is best • LOCAL PRODUCTS agencies brewed a perfect storm • CARROT/WHEATGRASS JUICE experienced out of our particular choir, to • FINE WINE & BEER of grocery offerings. Now fake • WINE TASTING SECOND THURSDAY the great masses of conventional shoppers OF EACH MONTH DURING ARTWALK foods seem even more nutritious out there, many of whom we love and care Member governed since 1971 than the real thing. “It’s a whole Coos Head Food Store for. Do them a favor. Get yourself a copy, 1960 Sherman, Hwy. 101 S. ◆ Downtown North Bend lot easier to slap a health claim enjoy it, and pass it along. 541-756-7264

Page 28 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Lessons from the land F 2 F X Continued on page 25 trol. It proved to be an empowering and who had made the transition to working well, such as room and board. It is best to incredible learning experience. on organic farms. A few of the farmers pay interns at least minimum wage. For Some of the more experienced parents present recounted that they would not have more information contact the Bureau of in attendance reminded others that the ear- survived low-paid internships if not for the Labor. ly childhood years are the most important, assistance of friends and family. and not to skimp on time or attention. The One idea presented was a farm school Children on the farm. farm will always be there, but kids are only on wheels – Green Tortoise style – housing Raising small children on the farm very young once. a half dozen or more students. This mobile can be a challenge of epic proportions. Children raised on the farm will grow living space could cruise around to differ- While the long-term rewards are great, up to have widely varied skill sets. Whether ent farms and learn with traveling mentors daily challenges are formidable, especially or not they take up farming as an occupa- on multiple farms around the country. for small operations consisting of only tion, they will be connected to their food. This would allow students to get practical a couple. This will result in one person This sensibility will follow them for the experience while seeing how different farms switching off with the childcare and the rest of their lives, resolve their problems. farm work. Infants can be carried around If you can’t grow your own help, and Several participants felt that minimum with you in the fields to get the work done, interns come with their own set of pitfalls, wage is a baseline that most farms should until they become mobile, when all bets where do new farmers come from? Many of be able to offer new farmers. This puts the are off. Safety is always a concern with kids the farmers present at the Exchange started onus on interns to perform as a crew, even around, so use extra care. Trying to work out working on other organic farms, some with the learning curve. Others pointed out while looking after them can result in poor for little money. Some had formal aca- that due to the economics of farming, the results all around. One farmer noted suc- demic training at University of California pay scale for experienced farm workers is cess keeping his young daughter occupied Santa Cruz, UC Davis and other Universi- often not much more than minimum wage, with her own small garden she could con- ties. Some knew WWOOFers (see page 11) so they have trouble justifying minimum Continued on page 30

New Organic Herbicide Finally, an effective and economical

MarroneOrganicInnovations.com herbicide for organic growers • NOP compliant • Coming Spring 2007 for NON- • EPA registered CROP uses in WA, OR, ID, NV, • Post emergence control UT, AZ and HI. Fall 2007 CA • EPA crop label - Summer 2007 MontereyAgResources.com • Kills most weeds (559) 499-2100 • Non-selective * Contains d-limonene (citrus oil • Fast-acting extract), patent pending

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 29 F2FX Vertically integrated Continued from page 29 Continued from page 20 Horizontal ladder trellis wage to inexperienced workers who ap- Teepee trellis This type of trellis is built by sinking proach them asking for internships. As an The teepee trellis is one of the easiest strong vertical stakes into the ground 8-12 employer of new workers, don’t be stressed trellises to construct and works great for inches deep every two-three feet for as long if you can’t offer constant supervision to a pole beans and peas. You need a mini- as your want your trellis. Next tie on hori- “green” farmer. Many times emergencies mum of three stakes that will be sunk into zontal stakes every foot or so up the vertical come up that preempt any continuum of the ground at least 6 inches in a triangle stakes creating a “ladder” formation. When training, but these should be looked at as formation. Once the stakes are in the placed in the middle of a raised garden learning opportunities in themselves in the ground, gather them at the top and tie bed, you can utilize the bed space around dynamic, multi-faceted world of the farm. them together using strong garden twine, the edges of the bed for additional plants. This is just a sampling of the informa- such as jute. You now have a teepee frame. The ladder trellis works great for vining, or tion that came out at the Exchange. Stay You could choose to plant pole beans at indeterminate, tomatoes because it allows the base of each pole or you could wrap you to easily prune them throughout the tuned for the next issue of In Good Tilth, the structure with twine or netting to season. Because the tomatoes are grown where I hope to highlight more of the allow for more surface area for them to vertically up the ladder, you can intensively voices in the fields. grow on. Whereas pole beans easily wrap plant the space on the ground around them themselves around stakes, some crops have with other heat loving crops like basil, pep- Nick Andrews works for the OSU tiny tendrils, like cucumbers and peas, and pers and eggplant. Cucumber and squash Extension, North Willamette Research grow best if provided with thin twine, wire also grow well on a ladder trellis and will & Extension Center. or netting that they can attach to. A bean benefit from additional netting tied onto teepee trellis can also create a shady micro- the ladder. climate underneath to plant salad greens in the summertime, keeping them cool and Kathy Dang is the Organic Education shaded and preventing them from bolting, Center Garden Coordinator. or prematurely going to seed.

Growing with our customers for over 54 years!

Gintec Shade StructureS One of the finest shade houses available to the ornamental and horticultural market. • Ten feet high, available with 20, 24 or 36 foot wide bays • Structure can be dismantled and moved • Heavy-duty quality galvanized steel frame Jumbo ellepotS Shade Cloth in the NEW Western Pulp 6-Pack Carrier Custom fabricated in our Canby, OR facility. made from recycled paper 1076 SW Berg Parkway, Canby, OR 97013 XXXPCDOXDPN

r

 Page 30 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Opportunities Global Organics International internship opportunities

By Tracy Grainger Martin Echeverria Avellan, from Quito, Ecuador, picked up a rake and hoe and went to work at six a.m. each morn- ing during the spring, summer, and fall of 2007, on a small organic farm near Leavenworth, WA. He arrived in the U.S. in May, having a vision to work in organic agriculture, a basic knowledge of his host, and a commitment to learn as much as pos- sible during his stay on an American farm. EI Switzerland-based After careful review, the hosting farm knew program partner meets as much about their incoming trainee as an Ecuadorian trainee he knew about them. Brought together by working at a nurs- a mutual commitment to organic farming, ery. Photo by Charlie side by side they worked most every day, Walkinshaw. oftentimes sharing meals and exchanging ideas about the future of world organic agriculture, and life in general. By the time Martin departed in October, there were minimum wage. All hosts must be in com- tears in both his and his American host’s pliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act eyes. The technical farm exchange was (FLSA) as well as state law governing mini- productive for both parties, creating an ir- mum wage and other employer obligations. replaceable cultural and social exchange. (Exemptions may apply to small farms with Martin and his host’s experiences less than $500,000 / year income or less were possible because of the J-1 Training than 500 man-hours per quarter.) Employ- SUSTAINABLE GROCERIES TASTE BETTER. and Exchange Program established by the ers can utilize the FLSA Advisor at www. Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange dol.gov/elaws/esa/flsa/screen7.asp. Act of 1961. The “J” visa was established to Hosts must also comply with the enable nonimmigrant foreign nationals to Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker I MY legally enter the United States for partici- Protection Act (MSPA) requirement for pation in educational and cultural activi- employers regarding wages, housing, trans- ties. To implement this program, the U.S. portation and disclosure practices. PLANETLANET! Department of State (DOS) designated a The staff at Experience International limited number of organizations, such as are always happy to answer inquiries from Experience International (Everson, WA) to prospective new hosts. And, as a host to an sponsor J-1 trainees/interns to the U.S. for international trainee, you can expect ongo- practical training and work experience in ing support from EI program staff who will specified fields. Experience International work closely with you to assure a positive is designated to sponsor qualified trainees and productive experience and interns in fields related to agriculture, horticulture, forestry, fisheries, conservation Tracy Grainger is the Program Assistant and natural resources. at Experience International, which can If you own or operate an agricultural be reached at PO Box 680 - Everson, business - from organic food production WA. 98247, (360) 966-3876 Fax: to alternative pesticides, fruit and dairy (360) 966-4131: Email: [email protected]; processing, nursery operations, and much www.expint.org. more - you may be eligible to host an North Store: 541-452-3115 intern or trainee. 29th & Grant J-1 visa regulations for U.S. hosts Open 7-9 daily require a host application and agreement, South Store: a training plan, minimum wage or a 541-753-3115 room/board/stipend package equal to the 1007 SE 3rd St Open 9-9 daily

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 31 Escoja historias en Español Un Sondeo de Centros Espectaculares

Por: Erin Volheim Por lo contrario, los productores grandes Traducido por: Odilia Hernández Onofre y bien capitalizados que producen de aprendizaje orgánicos y sustentables alred- Pasé los últimos días del invierno en un forma convencional se encuentran con más edor del mundo. recorrido virtual de granjas orgánicas. De lo dificultades cuando hacen el cambio, por que me percaté es que alrededor del mundo que necesitan cambiar todo su sistema. Al la agricultura orgánica ayuda a manifestar Oceanía / Australia principio sus cultivos son más afectados por Oceanía / Australia cambios positivos en las comunidades en las plagas y las enfermedades. Oceanía/Australia • CERES Community donde se practica, sobre todo en aquellas Las tecnologías de la agricultura Environment Park • www.ceres.org.au. donde los productores cultivan alimentos orgánica no requieren de mucho dinero a Hace 25 años, un grupo de gente para los mercados locales. parte de la mano de obra. En el estudio del inspirada y dedicada soñó con un lugar que Globalmente, la agricultura orgánica se 2004 se encontró que los productores a nivel proviera de sentido comunitario, que gen- practica actualmente en más de 120 países, familiar que ya producían más o menos erara empleos social y ambientalmente justos donde la cantidad de tierra dedicada a la orgánicamente se les facilitó y les fue menos y que sirviera para demostrar una iniciativa agricultura orgánica continúa creciendo. De costoso cubrir los requisitos de la certifi- ambiental. Este grupo obtuvo un arrenda- acuerdo a una encuesta en el 2005, casi 31 cación orgánica, ya que solo tuvieron que miento de 10 acres de un basurero. Ahora, millones de hectáreas se estaban cultivando hacer cambios mínimos. Sus ganancias no CERES es un parque ambiental comunitario de forma orgánica en el mundo: Australia/ mermaron. Los productores con suficientes en Victoria, Australia. Con su variedad de Oceanía (39%), seguida por Europa (21%), tierras pudieron incluso tomar medidas de proyectos y programas educativos CERES América Latina (20%), Asia (13%), Norte conservación para la tierra. Por el contrario, involucra a la comunidad y es huésped a más América (4%) y África (3%). los productores que utilizaban insumos de 75,000 visitantes al año. Sustentado con Una evaluación temática por el Fondo químicos y con poca mano de obra familiar energía alternativa, este oasis urbano cuenta Internacional para el Desarrollo Orgánico en (una situación muy común entre grupos de con un café, un centro educativo sustent- el 2004 examinó siete asociaciones de peque- mujeres productoras) y con la limitación de able, un mercado de alimentos y artesanías ños productores – en seis países Latino- no contar con sus propias tierras se les difi- dos veces por semana, una huerta, un huerto americanos y Caribeños – que han adoptado cultó tener éxito en la producción orgánica. de 2.5 acres certificado orgánico, jardines de exitosamente las técnicas de la agricultura Mientras que los ministros de agricul- permacultura, un vivero de plantas nati- orgánica. En estos países, la mayoría de los tura, las empresas agrícolas gigantes y los vas comestibles, un centro de compostaje, agricultores orgánicos son productores a baja grupos de intercambio internacionales se espacios para caminatas y una granja de lom- escala, esto se considera como una ventaja están enfocando en agarrar una rebanada brices de tierra. en la producción orgánica. del pastel orgánico, tomemos un vistazo a La mayoría de los pequeños productores la diversidad de algunos proyectos innova- en los países en desarrollo ya producen mas o Nueva Zelanda dores que suceden alrededor del mundo, Nueva Zelanda menos de forma “orgánica”, usando un míni- que tienen en mente la visión holística de mo o nulo agroquímicos y muy frecuent- mantenerse local. Si han tenido alcance Otamatea Eco-Village • www.otamatea.org. emente cultivan entre el bosque mezclando global se debe especialmente a sus programas nz/index.htm sus cultivos con otras especies. Por lo que su educacionales, o a menos de que tengan un Fundada en 1997. Quince familias han cambio a la producción orgánica es relativa- cultivo tropical de especialidad con los que creado intencionalmente una comunidad de mente fácil, agregando una que otra mejora el mundo no puede vivir sin ellos, como el permacultura en 250 acres a 90 minutos del a las tecnologías que ya de por sí usan. Tam- cacao o el café, del cual estoy disfrutando en sur de Auckland. La meta principal de esta bién, los pequeños productores tienden a no este preciso momento. comunidad es reparar las áreas deforestadas y tener una alta incidencia de plagas cuando Esto es una probadita de los centros de erosionadas de las tierras agrícolas en las que hacen la transición.

Page 32 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Internacional de centros de aprendizaje habitan. Cada año plantan árboles nativos por el ganador del premio noble a la paz establecieron por primera vez las especies de que han propagado en sus viveros. Cerca Wangari Maathai y se enlaza con las mujeres acacia, leucaena, gliricidia y eucalipto como de 72 acres de su tierra común la dedican rurales de Kenia que han plantado más de 30 barreras rompe viento y sombra. PBRC se a pastizales. Se las han arreglado para ser millones de árboles en su país desde 1977. convirtió en un Parque de Conservación autosuficientes, produciendo su propia La deforestación juega un papel crítico en la de Plantas Medicinales y en un Centro de carne con un pequeño ato de 54 vacas. Con seguridad alimenticia. La meta de Lambi es Entrenamiento para la Educación Ambiental su venta anual de Ganado, el cuidado del plantar un millón de árboles en Haiti a través con enfoque en la conservación del bosque ganado les deja una ganancia que sirve para de sus talleres “Entrena al entrenador” que va siempre verde tropical seco. Sus edificios darle mantenimiento a su carretera y para dirigido a sus lideres locales. funcionan con energía solar, con un molino los proyectos comunitarios. de viento para su vivero y sus jardines. A los agricultores locales se les está capacitando El CaribeEl Caribe / Haiti / Haiti AsiaAsia Central Central / India / India en las técnicas de agricultura orgánica y pro- ducción de hortalizas. Actualmente PBRC The Lambi Fund • www.lambifund.org Pitchandikulam Bio Resource Centre (PBRC) trabaja en 25 pueblos por toda la región de Este es un grupo diversificado trabaja- www.pitchandikulamforest.org/cms/content/ Kaliveli Bio-Región con educación ambi- ndo juntos hacia una economía y democ- view/23/31/ ental, grupo de mujeres para auto-ayuda y racia justa y por un desarrollo alternativo En la década de 1820 en el norte de la clubes ecologistas para jóvenes, clubes de y sustentable en Haiti. Sus proyectos de India en la region de Tamil nadu, se talaron salud y con iniciativas para la generación de agricultura sustentable ayudan a aumentar los árboles para poder desterrar a los tigres y ingresos. la seguridad alimenticia y el ingreso de las posteriormente para la fabricación de botes. familias empobrecidas. Lambi Fund se unió En 1972 se inició la restauración de los MedioMedio Oriente Oriente/ / Israel Israel recientemente a Green Belt Movement bosques por PBRC, utilizando abonos verdes (GBM) para fortalecer su programa local de para reconstruir el suelo, cercos vivos para BUSTAN • www.bustan.org reforestación en Haiti. GBM fue fundado proteger la tierra de las cabras y las vacas y se En hebreo y Arabigo “Bustan” significa “Huerta que da fruto”, y es eso precisamente Continuado en la pagina 34 Everything You Need to Grow Organically! - -Best selection around (over 4,000 items) -Great prices & generous quantity discounts ---Freight Allowances up to $400 on large orders ---Need a competitive quote? Call Hope at ext. 100

Certified organic vegetable & cover crop seeds, OMRI and/or NOP-listed fertilizers and weed & pest control, beneficial insects, growing and prop- agation supplies, irrigation and watering supplies, quality tools, floating row covers...etc. Free 168 Page Catalog

GrowOrganic.com TOLL-FREE (888)784-1722 ESTABLISHED 1976, GRASS VALLEY CA

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 33 En Español Globe trote con orgánicos

Continuado desde la pagina 32 en el noreste de Cairo Sekem actualmente dades que logran ser autosuficientes y tienen lo que este grupo de eco-constructores, incluye una huerta biodinámica, empresas un surplus puedan venderlo a los alojamien- arquitectos, académicos y agricultores en Is- de intercambio comercial de alimentos fres- tos, al mercado local e incluso al mercado rael/Palestina trata de dar. BUSTAN trabaja cos y procesados, tes medicinales, productos de exportación. Los servicios de AOFF para disminuir los efectos de la globalización de belleza, medicina herbolaria y productos incluye el procesado de alimentos crudos, el en las comunidades Beduinas. El Centro de algodón orgánico. También tienen a su intercambio comercial y servicios de apoyo de Estudios Ecológicos del Desierto trabaja cargo un centro medico, una escuela con el necesarios. Con un enfoque especial para conjuntamente con las curanderas Bedu- sistema Waldorf con estudiantes de oriden involucrar a las mujeres en la identificación, inas que practican la agricultura orgánica y musulman y cristiano, un centro vocacio- implementación y monitoreo. cultivan hierbas tradicionales para usarlas en nal, un colegio y un centro de investigación. jabones y cremas. BUSTAN cree que la cul- Los objetivos de SEKEM son: “restaurar Este deE staÁfrica de Africa tivación de alimentos orgánicos y la medic- y mantener la viabilidad del suelo y de los ina con el uso apropiado de tecnologías y la alimentos al mismo tiempo que se conserva Kenya Institute for Organic Farming (KIOF) restauración ambiental debe estar asociada la biodiversidad de la naturaleza” a través • www.kiof.org con la curación tradicional, la construcción, de una agricultura orgánica y sustentable El oeste de Kenia tiene una de las la energía y los sistemas alimenticios. y apoyar el desarrollo social y cultural en poblaciones más densas en todo el territo- Egipto. rio rural de África. Las propiedades de las El norteEl norte de Africa de Africa tierras se han ido dividiendo con el paso de las generaciones hasta alcanzar práctica- Sur de SurAfrica de Africa mente el tamaño de una estampilla postal. En 1986, KIOF fue uno de los pioneros African Organic Farming Foundation del movimiento orgánico establecido en (AOFF) •www.africanorganics.org/index.html el pueblo de Juja a 30 km. Del norte de El conocimiento agrícola se ha ido Nairobi. KIOF promueve la agricultura perdiendo ya que los productores batallan orgánica entre los pequeños productores por con condiciones inadecuadas y de dureza medio de despertar el interés en los jóvenes, causada por un desbalance creado por las mujeres y grupos que no reciben ayuda contiendas socio políticas y la corrupción. externa. Tienen centros de demostración en Sekem • www.sekem.com/english/default.aspx Estas tierras marginadas se caracterizan por cinco providencias, capacitan a los produc- Sekem se fundó en 1977 para tener un un suelo carente de material orgánico, veg- tores con su propio conocimiento indígena renacimiento cultural en Egipto. Localizado etación y lluvias. Uno de los proyectos de para que puedan ser capaces de alimentar AOFF es el pro- a una creciente población. Algunos de sus grama de “entrena proyectos son: la Preparatoria para Mujeres Premium Organic Fertilizers, al entrenador”, de la Pequeña Tierra (Small Earth Girl´s que va enfocado a High School), un mercado de agricultores, Soil Amendments, Composts, las comunidades agricultura apoyada por la misma comuni- Potting Mediums and more. que están asenta- dad y cinco jardines demostrativos. das en la periferia de las reservas OesteOeste de Africa de Africa de vida salvaje. El trabajar con Sustainable Tree Crops Program (STCP) • las comunidades www.treecrops.org/index.asp Organic Materials Review Institute les ha resultado El ATCP es un esfuerzo conjunto de en que ellas sean agricultores y organizaciones de produc- más autosufici- ción (El mercado e industria del chocolate entes, disminuir a nivel mundial). Con más del 60% del la caza furtiva y ingreso de capital extranjero proveniente del a promover un cacao, la meta es mejorar el sustento de los mejor manejo del agricultores a través de plantar más árboles ambiente. Su meta en el Oeste de África. Ya se han identifi- se ha expandido a cados los lugares donde se implementará For more information or a commercial price list call: 1-800-234-5932 que las comuni- el proyecto en Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, DTE_IGT_Jan/Feb_ad Page 34 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 En Español Greening Europa - granja por granja

Ghana, Guinea y Nigeria para probar varios medio de las montañas dentadas que rodean hectáreas que se encuentra centrada en el sistemas de producción de cacao de forma el Valle Song. Vangviang Organic Farm fue vaivén de las montañas de Gollaway. Ha sustentable y revisar el tema del empleo a establecida por Thanongsi Soangkoun en sido administrada desde 1927 por la familia menores de edad. La meta final de STCP 1996 con el fin de introducir los métodos Finlay. La camina por la granja te lleva a es mejorar el sustento de los productores de de agricultura orgánica a una región donde ver preciosos paisajes, pastizales, bosques cacao al mejorar su capacidad de responder a la deforestación y el uso de los agroquímicos antaños y estanques naturales. La granja la demanda de mercados internacionales. eran muy comunes. En la actualidad esta Rainton cuenta con un ato de 85 vacas granja apoya varios proyectos que tiene que lecheras de la raza tradicional Ayshire. En EsteEsta de Asia/de Asia China / China ver con la producción orgánica del árbol de los pastizales se intercalan el Ganado y las mora, a la vez que produce hortalizas, frutas ovejas, con un ato de ovejas de 500 corderos Haobao Organic Farm • www.gokunming. y carnes orgánicas para su restaurante. El de la raza Scottish de cara negra, Shetland com/en/blog/item.php?blog_id=454 árbol de mora da hojas que son usadas para y una cruza de ambas. Este ato se certificó La seguridad de los alimentos ha venido alimentar al gusano de la seda, hacer tes, orgánico en Julio del 2001. La granja es a ser un criterio importante en la mente de vinos y malteadas. La generación de empleos habitad de muchas especies importantes, al- los consumidores Chinos. Esto ha ayudado beneficia a muchos aldeanos y las ganan- gunos de los hormigueros que se encuentran a propulsar el crecimiento del Mercado cias ayudan a toda la comunidad. Hay una en las praderas tienen más de 100 años de orgánico en China. Mas o menos a 35 km. constante pasarela de visitantes extranjeros edad, demostrando así la continuidad de un al noroeste de Kunming, esta granja de que vienen a disfrutar de la tranquilidad y manejo cuidadoso de la tierra. Tienen paseos 96 hectáreas produce varias docenas de relajación, la oportunidad de trabajar en con guía disponibles. variedades de hortalizas certificadas orgáni- una granja orgánica o simplemente por la cas y además diferentes carnes certificadas emoción de enseñar ingles a un puñado de orgánicas. La granja vende sus productos niños sonrientes. OesteOeste dede Europa Europa / Francia / Francia en Kunming con el nombre de “haobao” que significa “buen tesoro”. La granja está ParteParte Este Esta de Europa de Europa situada entre solinas de denso bosque y tiene en exhibición un invernadero con una Ecotopia Romania • www.ecotopia.ngo.ro variada colección de hortalizas, melones, le- Localizado en una comunidad Serbi- chugas y hierbas. También tiene un hotel de ana en un área con un alto nivel cultural. tres estrellas con un restauran que sirve sus Hay tres tiendas en la aldea, una cantina y carnes orgánicas. Una de sus especialidades un teléfono público. Las instalaciones son es su licor de maíz hecho allí mismo. Esta de las más básicas: un baño de compostaje granja orgánica surte de hortalizas orgánicas primitivo, servicio de agua fría en la cocina Beauchamp • www.beauchamp24.com a las cadenas de mercados Parkson y Trust- y en el cuarto de voluntaries, la calefacción y Beauchamp es un hermoso campo en Mart en Kunming y recientemente firmó los alimentos se preparan con una estufa de las orillas de Dordogne en el sur del oeste un contrato para surtir a los Supermercados leña. El jardín es grande pero solo se cultiva de Francia. Lo compraron hace 15 años en Wal-Mart en China. una parte con una variedad de hortalizas. La completo abandono y cientos de personas la parte posterior del jardín ha sido bendecido revivieron nuevamente. Son ocho hectáreas SuresteSureste de Asia de Asia con árboles frutales y un pequeño viñedo. – principalmente de bosque, un campo Ecotopia Romania pretende traer un ingreso abierto y un estanque, jardines y una huerta a la comunidad al mismo tiempo que pro- frutal. Los residentes has optado por vivir mueve el ecoturismo en el área. El jardín de una vida simple, haciendo lo más que pu- niños y centro para jóvenes inició en el 2002 edan para ser autosuficientes. Utilizan baños y ofrece actividades educativas a 10-15 niños de compostaje y su agua gris es procesada entre las edades de 4 a 7 años. por un sistema de cañaverales que alimenta a un estanque lleno de peses, y que posterior- mente es bombeada para regar los jardines. NortrNorte dede EuropaEuropa / Escocia / Escocia Beauchamp es una organización no lucrativa que tiene como meta el desarrollo de ese Vangviang Organic Farm • Rainton Farm • www.creamogalloway.co.uk/ lugar bajo la filosofía de la permacultura, un www.laofarm.org/index.html La nieve Cream o’ Galloway (con ocho concepto que no se ha entendido plena- Localizado en la aldea de Phoudin- sabores orgánicos) se encuentra en la Granja mente en Francia. daeng en el norte de Laos. La granja se Raintonen, Escocia, una granja de 329 Continuado en la pagina 36 encuentra en las orillas de rio Nam Song en

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 35 En Español Proporcionar planetaria positividad

Continuado desde la pagina 35 de gente y del ambiente. La comunidad del año. Algunos de los animales en la granja que allí reside consta de 16 miembros, que son cuatro caballos de Noruega raza Fjord incluye cinco niños, y un huerto orgánico SurSur de de Europa Europa / Italia / Italia que los utilizan para montar y que están con una producción a baja escala de aceite aprendiendo a hacer trabajo en la granja. de olivo, frutas y verduras. Torri Superiore Ecovillage • www.torri-supe- Producen su propio pienso y granos y han plantado un huerto frutal. Toda la composta riore.org Canada Canada La aldea medieval Torri Superiore del se elabora en la propia granja. siglo 13 se sitúa a unos cuantas millas del Mar Mediteraneo y la frontera con Francia. Su fascinante y compleja estructura consta Mexico Mexico de ocho niveles, con tres edificios princi- pales separados por dos callejones parcial- Los Horcones • www.loshorcones.org/index_ mente cubiertos. La aldea está compuesta eng.html por 160 cuartos con techos en forma de Fundada en 1973, la comunidad se bóveda, todos conectados por un fascinante encuentra en unos 250 acres en los subur- laberinto de escaleras, terrazas y pasillos. bios de la ciudad de Hermosillo, Sonora en el noroeste de México. Su objetivo es diseñar En la actualidad está casi completamente Loftsedt Farm • British Columbia • mypage. restaurado y abierto a visitantes con mentes y desarrollar una sociedad o cultura alterna- direct.ca/l/lofstedtfarm/ tiva basada en los principios de superación, de conservación del medio ambiente para Situado en un pequeño valle paralelo al iniciativas culturales y actividades grupales. igualdad, compartir y respeto ecológico. lago Kootenay, las altas montañas que rode- Los Horcones es parcialmente autosufici- Ofrecen talleres con temas de sustentabili- an la granja mantienen un clima agradable dad, convivencia comunal y para cuidado ente en sus alimentos, con una huerta de durante el verano y el invierno. Con la yuda mandarinas, naranjas, toronjas y limones. La de un sin número de contribuidores con comunidad cría alrededor de 200 pollos y ganas de aprender pavos para la producción de huevos y carne. y experimentar la También crían conejos que son alimentados vida en la tierra, con alfalfa que ellos mismos cultivan. A los se ha desenvuelto cerdos se le alimenta con el suero sobrante un modelo de la elaboración del queso, sobrantes de vanguardista, que comida de la cocina y del jardín. Elaboran su incluye establos, propia granola, tortillas de harina integral, graneros, caba- pan y pastelillos que se venden para obtener ñas, gallineros, ingresos, al igual que las mermeladas y las apiarios, talleres, vinagretas. instalaciones para procesar alimen- tos, etc. con el LasLas Americas Americas / Costa / Costa Rica Rica complemento per- fecto: un horno de Punta Mona Center for Sustainable Living barro. La principal and Education (PCSE) forma de ingreso Punta Mona es una granja orgánica y es una sociedad un centro educativo y para la convivencia Agrícola Apoyada sustentable de 100 acres que se encuentra por la Comunidad en la parte sur de la costa Caribeña de Costa de 60 familias, Rica. Punta Mona es un centro donde tanto que proveen los adultos como los niños se exponen a de hortalizas y los ideales de la permacultura y la sustent- frutas frescas abilidad. Cultivan más de 100 especies de cada semana a las frutales, verduras, hierbas medicinales y comunidades de nueces. El agua de lluvia se usa para lavar y Nelson y Kaslo para tomar. Punta Mona le da la bienvenida durante 10 meses a grupos educativos y de retiro, internistas y

Page 36 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 En Español La sostenibilidad en el sur a visitantes que pueden permanecer durante algunas noches. El estar Gran parte de esta tierra se hyá degradado más allá de la capacidad de en ese lugar es una immersion instantanea a la vida sustentable, con la propia tierra de recuperarse. La agricultura en estos lugares se está una consciencia ambientalista y una experiencia fuera de lo común, derrumbando por que la mayoría de los hombres y mujeres capaces esta experiencia incluye baños de compostaje, molinos de mano y de trabajar en el campo se están mudando a San Paulo o a otras monos aulladores. La puerta de Punta Mona está abierta a aquellos ciudades. El Proyecto de Policultura en Tierras Áridas del IPB trabaja que deseen contribuir a la granja y echarle un vistazo a esta Hermosa con 1,000 familias de productores y recibe subsidios a través de la comunidad a la vez que aprenden acerca de la conservación y el Fundación Nacional del Ambiente para Combatir la Desertificación. desarrollo sustentable de las tierras de la selva húmeda tropical. El proyecto de Policultura inició en 1999, mostrando una alternativa para los sistemas agrícolas que dependían en una alta demanda de ir- Sur de América rigación e insumos químicos. Las personas de la localidad participan Sur de América en las actividades de plantación y manejo de los campos. Los más jóvenes y las jóvenes de entre 16 a 25 años de las ciudades selecciona- das se les ha entrenado para convertirse en facilitadoras. Actualmente el proyecto ostenta 500 parcelas de demostración en las tierras de los productores. El mundo está en un llamado constante al cambio positivo. Ahora que ya haz emprendido tu viaje virtual, alista tus maletas. Instituto de Permacultura da Bahia (IPB) • www.permacultura- Puedes visitar la mayoría de estos lugares, ser voluntario e incluso bahia.org.br/eng_historia.asp mudarte. Bon voyage! Reconocido por sus selvas, Brasil tiene una región semi árida de cerca de un millón cuadrado de kilómetros y esta área está creciendo. Erin Volheim vive en el Valle de Little Applegate en el sur de Oregon.

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 37 Research Reports

Plastic fantastic beets Working with Liu’s team at Wyndmoor, of the University of Arizona, who led the Sugar beet pulp may help cut the costs Finkenstadt and her Peoria colleagues research team, said: “What we are seeing of making biodegradable plastic, Agricultural showed that glycerol can be used to is evolution in action. This is the first Research Service (ARS) studies suggest. plasticize the pulp and reshape its particulate documented case of field-evolved resistance The pulp is a fiber-rich byproduct of matter into tendrils. Early tests have been to a Bt crop.” In the case of the GM cotton sucrose extraction procedures used by sugar promising, but showed that the PLA’s tensile crop, the bollworm insect developed beet processors. Most of the 40 million strength decreased in relation to the amount resistance because of the huge area of land tons of U.S. sugar beet pulp generated each of sugar beet pulp or plasticizer that was in America and elsewhere where GM crops year is used as an inexpensive livestock feed added. To get around the problem, Liu’s modified with Bt genes are now grown. or pet-food ingredient. But ARS chemists group plans on chemically modifying the This has generated one of the largest forces Victoria Finkenstadt and LinShu Liu aim to pulp so that its tendrils and the PLA matrix of natural selection for insect resistance that breathe new economic life into the pulp. form a stronger bond. the world has ever known, according to the Finkenstadt is with the ARS National Potential uses for pulp-based PLA researchers, whose study will be published in Center for Agricultural Utilization Research composites range from nondurable goods the journal Nature Biotechnology. (NCAUR) in Peoria, Ill. Liu is with the such as water bottles, cups and packaging, ARS Eastern Regional Research Center to lightweight indoor-construction materials Buying organic reduces pesticide in Wyndmoor, Pa. Since 2004, they’ve such as wallboard, tabletops and pressed risks by 97 percent collaborated on a project to convert sugar furniture. The Organic Center provides the beet pulp into a specialized filler material for See www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/ first-ever quantitative estimate of the polylactic-acid-based plastics. mar08/beets0308.htm degree to which pesticide risks from food Polylactic acid (PLA) is considered a –ARS can be eliminated through adoption of promising natural alternative to petroleum- organic farming methods in “Simplifying based thermoplastics like polypropylene GM pests gone wild the Pesticide Risk Equation: The Organic because PLA has comparable tensile strength It is believed to be the first documented Option,” a new State of Science Review by and other mechanical properties, but is example in the wild of an insect pest Dr. Charles Benbrook, the Organic Center’s biodegradable. But PLA is costlier because becoming resistant to this particular type of chief scientist. of the complex processes required to derive GM crop, which was thought to be immune Less than three percent of the nation’s it from fermented corn sugars, according to from the problems that have plagued cropland produces fruits and vegetables. Finkenstandt, in NCAUR’s Plant Polymer conventional pesticides. The bollworm Yet, according to The Center, these Research Unit. moth is one of the most destructive pests crops account for most of the pesticide of cotton crops. The resistant form of the risks from dietary exposure in domestically moth’s caterpillar was produced foods. The 97 percent risk found in a dozen fields reduction can only be achieved if in the southern states of converting domestic cropland of organic Mississippi and Arkansas is coupled with consumers choosing only between 2003 and 2006, imported produce that is certified organic. when the surveys were The estimates are based on up-to- conducted. date pesticide residue data from the U.S. The GM cotton was Department of Agriculture, and the developed by inserting a Environmental Protection Agency’s current gene into the plant that methods for estimating pesticide dietary is normally found in a risks. bacterium called Bacillus “Recent science has established strong thuringiensis (Bt). The links between exposure to pesticides at bacterial gene produces critical stages of prenatal development and a protein toxin that is throughout childhood, and heightened poisonous to certain risk of pre-term, underweight babies, insects, but normally developmental abnormalities impacting the harmless in other brain and nervous system, as well as diabetes animals. and cancer.” Bruce Tabashnik “With surprising frequency, all

Page 38 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Research Reports

Americans, including infants and children, to organic methods, the process is well Imported are exposed to pesticides via their diet underway and accelerating fast, especially Grapes: 282 and drinking water,” added Dr. Benbrook, in the Western U.S.,” Dr. Benbrook noted. Nectarines: 281 who noted recent USDA pesticide residue Already, organic produce accounts for Peaches: 266 and food consumption surveys show most nearly ten percent of retail sales of fresh Pears: 221 people consume three to four residues daily fruits and vegetables. Several major fresh Strawberries: 78 just through fruits and vegetables. produce grower-shippers have recently Vegetables: “Accounting for residues in announced aggressive timetables to convert Sweet bell peppers: 720 conventional milk, tap water and other all or most of their fruit and vegetable Lettuce: 326 foods, the average American exposes him or acreage to organic, assuming consumer Cucumbers: 317 herself to ten to 13 pesticide residues daily,” demand continues to grow. Celery: 170 Dr. Benbrook added. The report points out that a Tomatoes: 142 The frequency of multiple pesticide substantial reduction in pesticide exposure will remove, or markedly lesson, an residues in conventional produce The Complete Dietary Risk Index can be contributes significantly to each person’s important risk factor for several serious found in the full report, downloadable at daily dose. Multiple residues are eight-times public health problems. www.organic-center.org. more likely in conventional produce than in The Organic Center’s report also organic produce. Reasons why include: presents lists of fresh fruits and vegetables • A conventional spinach sample in 2006 that score the highest using the DRI. testing was found to have nine Two lists cover domestically grown fruits residues, a kale sample had 10, and a raisin and vegetables, while two others apply to sample contained 11; imported produce. • Almost half the conventional peach The organization hopes consumers samples in 2006 contained five or will follow these lists in determining more residues; which organic fruits and vegetables will • Conventional sweet bell peppers top most significantly improve their personal the multiple-residue chart, with two pesticide dietary risk equation. samples containing 12 pesticides in Conventional produce with the 2003 testing; and, Highest Pesticide Dietary Risk • More than one-third of conventional Domestic fruit and vegetable samples in 2006 Fruits contained multiple residues. Cranberries: 178 Organic Center bases its 97 percent Nectarines: 97 risk reduction estimate upon a Dietary Risk Strawberries: 56 Index (DRI), developed by the EPA’s Office Peaches: 54 of Inspector General (OIG). Pears: 48 The EPA-OIG used the index in a Vegetables 2006 appraisal of the impacts of the 1996 Green beans: 330 Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) on Sweet bell peppers: pesticide dietary risks. 132 The Organic Center applied the same Celery: 104 DRI to estimate the changes that would Cucumbers: 93 occur in risk levels if all produce were grown Potatoes: 74 using organic methods, and concluded Conventional that a 100 percent reduction in risk is produce with the unattainable because of the widespread use Highest Pesticide of pesticides on conventional farms, and the movement of pesticides in the air and water onto organic farm fields. “While it will take years to convert most American fruit and vegetable farms

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 39 ALWA RE - AL NATUR YS PU WAYS AL Domini Cares About... Nancy’s family community building of Organic Homeownership and small business are Yogurt, Soy and the foundations of a healthy community, and healthy communities are critical Organic Kefir to our economic well-being.

By directing capital to the communities Nancy’s is delighted to support family farms who have made a that need it most, you can help generate commitment to sustainable organic farming practices. prosperity for all.

build stronger communities. invest in domini mutual funds. Call 1-800-530-5321 or visit www.domini.com.

The Domini Funds are not insured and are subject to market risks. Investment return, principal value, and yield of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. You may lose money. You should consider the Domini Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. Please obtain a copy of the Funds’ current Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth prospectus for more complete information on these and other topics by calling ng Fami rated e, Ore 1-800-530-5321 or online at www.domini.com. Please read it carefully before Spri field Creamery ly owned and ope since 1960 Eugen gon investing or sending money. DSIL Investment Services LLC, Distributor 09/06 www.nancysyogurt.com

Page 40 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Classifieds Deadline for Next Issue Page 41 is May 20. Email [email protected] for ad changes! Classified Ads Organic claims made in the classifieds are not verified! Horses are interested in farm work. Our Certified organic cover crop seed!Farm- 155 acre farm is powered by teams of beautiful direct organic bell beans, organic crimson Organic Products, Belgian Horses. We produce and train horses clover. Call Jim Bronec, Praying Mantis Farm, Services & Equipment for farm work. We also help people prepare to Canby, OR. (503) 651-2627; Marine Phytoplankton, alive in ocean water work with horses. They could work for you, [email protected]. concentrate. 400 times the energy of any come see us. Horsepower Organics. mader@ known plant. Contains sea minerals that are pinetel.com (541) 742 4887. Certified organic cayuse oat seed. absent or may be low, even in organic pro- $20/50 lb. bag or $720/ton. FOB Grants Pass, duce. Pamela Melcher. pamelamelcher@gmail. Grass-fed beef, pastured pork, chicken, and OR Pacific Botanicals, Call (541) 479-7777; com. (503) 946-8048. lamb. Buy by the side for greatest savings or in [email protected]. mixed boxes starting at 20 lbs. 10 percent dis- Farm equipment for sale. Troy-Bilt Pro-Line count for local pickup. Call (541) 998-4697; Organic cranberries and cranberry vines for Tiller w/Honda 5.5hp engine $800. Honda [email protected], sale. Brush Prairie Bogs, Sixes, Oregon. Mini-Tiller. FG100 $200. Brand new Honda www.deckfamilyfarm.com. [email protected] or (541) 348-2370. Generator EU2000I 3.5 hp $800. Drip irrigation supplies, shade cloth, & lots more. Seascape strawberry plants (C.O.) available Certifiedo rganic herb plants. Rosemary 4” Can e-mail complete list. Contact Bernard at Lots of 100 only. $35.00 ea. + Shipping USPS to 5 gallons. Figs, lemongrass, lavender, plus 503-835-0894 or e-mail [email protected]. Priority. Teal Creek Farms (503) 623-6605; many more rare or unusual varieties. For more [email protected] Falls City, Oregon. info call Brennan at (503) 678-5056; For Sale: 2008 certifiedo rganic alfalfa hay. [email protected]. 1st, 2nd, & 3rd cuttings; in 20T lots or more. 200 varieties of certified organic, non- Crane, Oregon (541) 493-2541. GMO, garden seeds. Printable online catalog Farm equipment for sale. 5” flexible irriga- at www.organicseed.com. David Seber/Sow tion line. Large greenhouse fan. Single-phase Grade AA brown eggs from happy cage Organic Seed (541) 345-7498; irrigation pump with 2 motors. Irrometer free-ranging chickens. No chemicals, [email protected]. moisture indicator. Frazer tiller. Rears-PTO- antibiotics or hormones. Combo large/extra driven 100-gallon sprayer with two section large $2.75/dozen. Medium (1/4 oz. less than Bamboo stakes. Direct sales of bundles of field boom. Wheel-driven lime spreader. large) for $2.00. Chickens fed oyster shells to presized and cured bamboo canes. Wholesale Dump truck. Call Jean, (541) 937-2837. strengthen the egg shells. Portland-Woodstock prices, many sizes from 1.5’ to 12’ in length. area. (503) 310-4992. E-mail Light, durable and naturally attractive. Visit: Two 1000-watt grow lights for sale. Metal [email protected]. www.canby.com/bamboobuzz. email: halides. Includes two 120-volt transformers, [email protected], or call Colin two large circular reflectors, two bulbs. Excel- Organic meats. Grass-fed beef and goat (503) 351-7143. lent condition. $150 each OBO. Also have a and pastured Heritage turkey. Hearty turkey new roll of over 1000’ large-meshed Hortnova poults to raise your own. Fresh and frozen Certified organic alfalfa, grass hay and rye plastic trellis, will sell cheap. Andrea, (541) meats available direct to customer or through hay! Will deliver lots under three tons. South- 929-4054; or [email protected]. retail outlets all year round. Direct purchase central, OR. Call Leon Baker, discounts. Harmony Jack Farms Certified by (541) 576-2367. Certified organic grassfed beef and lamb. Oregon Tilth. Call to order (503) 910-5690; Your clean source for protein, Omega 3 fatty [email protected]. Fresh certified organic seed garlic.Grown in acids, CLA’s and the good cholesterol! Eastern Hood River, Oregon. Farm direct. Gourmet Oregon raised - ecologically grown and hu- Microbe rich, compost and compost teas. Hardneck and Softneck varieties. Certified manely handled. Check our website: Compost in retail ready bags (1.5 cu/ft) Organic by the Oregon Tilth since 2002. Bulk www.doublediamondranch.us or call or bulk purchases. Call for prices FOB or prices available. (541) 386-1220; email (541) 853-2320. delivered. We can apply to your pastures, www.hoodrivergarlic.com. gardens, crops or orchards. OMRI approved. 100 percent organic baby clothing and MarWest/Harmony Jack Farms Scio, Oregon Raising Organic beef to offer competitive accessories. Diapers, carriers, blankets, toys, (503) 930-0118, or (503) 910-5690. market. Looking for families who would be etc. Call for free brochure. Williams, Oregon interested in sharing the expenses for a beef (541) 846-0848; dragonflyorganics.com. Permaculture Plants for the Pacific NW. cow, allowing the family to come and visit the Edible, medicinal, drought-tolerant, and animal for the benefit of education. Call Leon Organic alfalfa hay and winter barley seed multi-functional plants grown without Baker, (541) 576-2367. for sale. 3000 N 7500 W. Abraham, Utah chemicals. For info or plant list contact: Fern 84635. (435) 864-5400; [email protected], Hill Nursery (541) 942-3118 or [email protected]. [email protected]. Continued on page 42

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 41 Land for Sale Classifieds Opportunities Continued from page 41 Organic seeds available: forerunner triticale Land for Sale. 43 acres, 3 bed, 2 bath solid We teach self sufficiency, not seling produce (good supply), fava beans (Good supply), farmhouse, barn, small orchard. 12,000 sq’ from the farm. Contact class@herbaltransi- vetch (limited supply), oats (limited supply). glass greenhouse. 17 acre 2nd growth. 7’ tions.com, or (541) 736-0164. See Weaver Seed of Oregon, Crabtree OR. 97335 deer/elk fence. Trees, pasture, creek, lake. 35 www.herbaltransitions.com. Available in May. (541) 924-9701; [email protected]. Needed: minutes to Eugene. Call Jean (541) 937-2837. more Organic acres for seed production. Seeking intern for start-up farm operation. For Sale, 564 acres certifed organic, 400 Have equipment, land, water, certification, Top quality certified organic seed garlic, irrigated. Dairy quality alfalfa. Complete with and a market of people drooling for the first 12 varieties available this summer for fall equiptmnet, 13-acre pond, wildlife. S. Central crop! Crop share, and willing to split profit. planting. Varieties include: Cal Early, Kettle Oregon. (775) 849-2025. We are easy going, like our privacy. Looking River Giant, Susanville, Music, Chesnok Red, for a younger, quiet, committed individual Purple Glazer, and more. Prices range from Organic farm for sale. 59 Acres. 16 Acres. 41 willing to work a reasonable amount of time $6/lb. to $12/lb. Contact Ryan at L&R Farm Acres leased for grass seed.Water rights on 12 for a very fair profit. Opportunities for future soon, our best seed garlic will sell out fast. acres. 60-gpm well. Underground irrigation growth! Contact Dr. Hayden and Dawn Sears (541) 846-0602 lines. 2 greenhouses, some orchard and ber- at [email protected]. ries, one acre lilacs, nicely remodeled 2 br 1 ba Land for Sale house. Garage, shop, barn. 12 miles to Salem, Northwest Medicinal Herb Work/Study McMinnville or Dallas. Offered by owner at Internship positions available for 2008 For Sale: Nice three bedroom, 2 bath home $609,000. Contact Bernard at (503) 835- season. Three 10-week sessions starting in on five acres in Eastern Oregon. Good 0894 or email [email protected]. April and the last ending in November. Help water, good road, close to excellent schools. us work on our medicinal herb farm and learn $130,000. Phone (541) 493-2541. Employment, Internships about growing, harvesting, and using many & Opportunities plants. Email [email protected] or call For Sale, 2.32 Acre Parcel. Hwy 22 frontage Seeking one or two renters to share garden Nome at (541) 513-8385. Eugene area. in Coast Range. 15 minutes to Pacific City or and orchard, angora goats, and forest (for fire- 20 minutes to Spirit Mountain Casino. Year wood and mushroom propagation) on farm Seeking hard working field handson round creek borders one side. Access to Suiu- 15 miles west of Eugene. Partially furnished established organic farm in SW Oregon. We slaw Nat. Forest in back. Seller will provide house. Work credit available; partnership pos- grow and pack diversity of roots, veggies, tree septic approval with accepted offer. $55,000 sible. $650. Contact: [email protected] or and vine fruits and seeds. Will weed, harvest OBO. Mike or Stacey. (503) 392-4572, (541) 485 1426. and do maintenance. Send resume to Hi Hoe (503) 507-6611. Produce at Bluebird Farm, 1785 Caves Camp Homesteading single 50 year old woman, Rd., Williams, OR. 97544, (541) 846-6676. Two homes on 21 acre organic farm. with incredibly beautiful, sustainable, Custom built 1996 home and two bed manuf. and secluded ranch, looking for partner(s) Opportunity Available. Land owner in home. Class 1 soils, warehouse, barn, four bay to share rewarding lifestyle with. Welcome South Salem wants land put to good use shop. Off 1-5 near Canby. $1,250,000. Call all hard-working visionaires with the dream growing organic/natural product. Person with Bob Kacalek, (503) 849-9559 cell or Lisa w/ and stamina to raise own food and possibly knowledge and experience wanted to explore Prudential NW Prop. (503) 624-9660 office. develop a business, retreat center, homestead- options. [email protected] or Slideshow http://client.prudential.imprev. ing school, organic farm/ranch, or? Call (541) (503) 559-5572 evenings. net/email/1674/24706/index.ipv. 496-4635; [email protected]. Apprentice opportunity at Sunbow Farm Five organic acres 8 miles from downtown Farm for lease, 16 Acres organic, with wate in Corvallis, Oregon. Living communally Eugene. Loanable, well-maintained, 1978, on 12 Acres, 60-gpm well, irrigation lines with (share kitchen and bath) with your own room. 64’ x 28’, manufactured, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, many outlets. 2 Greenhouses (20’ x 95’), or- Rent is $200 per month. Apprentice would on concrete. Solar hot water, fenced, well, chard & berries, table grapes, open acreage for be working with seasoned certified organic mature oaks, established green house (10’ x 40 annual field crops. remodeled 2 br 1 ba house. farmers for 10-30 hours per week. Email to ’), composting and garden areas. Barn is 36’ Garage, shopand barn. 7 miles south of Amity, [email protected], see www.sunbowfarm.org. x 48’ with 7, 12’ stalls, a tack room and loft near 99W. 12 miles to Salem, McMinnville or space for 12 tons hay. Recent appraisals from Dallas. Flexible starting date. Bernard at Organic grower with family seeks farm. $325k-$350k. Asking $335k with livestock (503) 835-0894; [email protected]. Seeking to partner-up in joint venture raising and equipment) or $325k without. diverse vegetables, eggs, livestock, etc. support- (541) 688-6607; [email protected]. Caretaker position near Eugene. Part time ing market stands, restaurants, and a CSA. position at Wise Acres Educational Herb Farm Buy-in or out opportunities prefered. Just 2-acre building site in beautiful rural com- in exchange for one bedroom house on farm. because you want to slow down, your farm munity of Summit.$119,900. Judy Gibson, 25 acre biodynamic farm with milking goats, doesn’t have to. Respond to Broker, Coldwell Banker Valley Brokers, 1109 chickens, orchard, vineyard, garden and more. [email protected]. NW 9th St., Corvallis. (541) 257-3426. Page 42 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Classifieds Opportunities

Seeking Representatives. Become part of the Organic land for lease. Six acres, Central or working out an alternative arrangement. world’s first and only certified organic com- Point, 9 miles from Medford, 1 acre plowed Contact Lauren and Brian at pany with a full line of health care products garden area. (1) 7000 sq’ green house, (5) [email protected]. to international (food) standards. Full support hoop houses 5000 sq’(1) 1500 sq foot starter and training provided. Contact: www.nature- green house. Serious only. Ken Brown, PO Ecovillage in NE Portland. We are a cohous- screation.info, www.naturescreation.biz. Box 858, Gold Hill, OR 97525, (541) 855- ing community in Portland with 3.73 acres, 1846 or [email protected]. including extensive orchards, gardens and play Trade work for housing. Yamhill County, areas with existing residential buildings and Oregon. 30 acre estate of trees, trails, mead- Will lease 3+acres for organic farming. West a common community house. Studios and ows, pond, and seasonal creek 25 miles SW of facing slope in SE Portland. Rich topsoil, well one, two and three bedroom units avail- Portland. Community-minded owners seek water and springs, good drainage. Willing to able. Email [email protected], hard working individuals for orchard, garden, negotiate terms and assist with startup. Sunny ww.columbiaecovillage.com. natural building and permaculture projects. airy basement apartment available. You must Land share for agricultural options avail- have experience. (503) 760-5891. Looking for another couple or individuals able. Contact Pam or John (503) 538-8096; to buy into and share resources, work, and [email protected]. Two acres for very reasonable rent or lease. vision on a 36-acres medicinal herb, and sus- McKenzie River bottom land near Walterville, tainable-living farm and forest, located in SW Want to buy land, Williams, Applegate, or OR. Excellent S/SW exposure, gently swaled Oregon, 2 hours south of Eugene. Apprentice/ Jacksonville area for permaculture. 10-40 loamy pasture. Irrigation well, no pump. internship opportunities. Call Liz or Jeff (541) acres, good water, good soil. Secluded, quiet Serious inquiries. Organic only. Email your 825-3402; email [email protected]. with small house, cabin or yurt site. Call proposal to: [email protected], or call (541) 836-2943 or email at (541) 741-7336. Internship, March 30 - October 31, Live [email protected]. on a scenic organic farm working side-by-side Wanted: organically grown cattle. Buckaroo with dedicated family farmers. Within Earthly Farmland for lease, rent or partnership: Cattle Co. Contact (541) 865-4386; Bounds small Farm Internship Cooperative. One acre with room to grow in Salem, Or- [email protected]. Applegate River Valley of Southern Oregon. egon. Pump, irrigation, small greenhouse, cold Stipend and other yummy benefits. Weekly frame and tractor available. Excellent soil and Organic Asian pear and apple orchard. classes and field trips on the practical elements location, lets talk. Call Charles at Looking to enter into a lease or crop-shar- and the politics of sustainable farming. Call (503) 569-6787. ing agreement with experienced grower. Our Hanya, (541) 727-1177; hanyazwick@gmail. brand label fruits are in demand and are sold com. Organic farmland for rent, 20 acres in Fall both wholesale and mail order. Contact (541) Creek. Creek water with pipe and pump. Call 673-7775, fax 957-5121; [email protected], Harmony Jack Farms has room to expand Jean (541) 937-2837. www.asianpearsorganic.com. operations with aligned partners. Head your own enterprise in partnership with us. Workers Wanted - Winter Green Farm (near Land wanted to lease, with purchase option, We have ample land, resources and equipment Eugene) is seeking workers for the 2008 sea- with or without house, outbuildings, etc. for start ups and expansions of operations son and beyond. Biodynamic (Tilth Certified) N. OR. Call John Paxson at Metro, with poultry (chickens, ducks and turkeys); farm. 500-member CSA program, five farmers (503) 349-9153. wood working or lumber production; bees; markets, grow for processors and distributors, veggies; herbs; and more. Call Andy, at (503) and have a herd of beef cows. No housing. Caretaker available, strong healthy experi- 910-5690. Applications at www.wintergreenfarm.com or enced. N. Oregon. Call John Paxson at Metro, call Wali Via at (541) 935-1920. (503) 349-9153. Angels Organic Farm Internship openings in Southern Oregon’s beautiful Rogue Valley! Safely Detoxify with Natural Cellular Experienced, landless, organic grower look- Learn first hand the diverse and complex pro- Defense: purified, micronized, liquid zeolite. ing for 1 to 5 acres (or large city lot) to rent/ cedures involved in our state of the art grow- Removes heavy metals, herbicides, pesticides, lease/use for CSA/Market Garden operation ing operation. including quantum physics, depleted uranium, etc. Absorbs free radicals, in or around Portland or Eugene. Housing on- energy patterning, sound frequency generation buffers the body toward alkalinity, inhibits site or off. (503) 313-5239; or email and the use of sea solids. Interns stay onsite viral replication, improves liver and immune [email protected]. at our health food institute facility. Call us at functioning, brings greater mental clarity and (541) 292-7696. energy. Home business opportunity. Pamela Couple looking to buy farm land or form Melcher. [email protected]. land partnership. Experienced in organic Organic Farming for women. Residential www.mywaiora.com/472784.(503) 946- farming and permaculture design. Want land and monthly programs. Call for more info 8048. with irrigation rights or good year round water Carol (541) 896-3928. source. Open to purchasing land, leasing land

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 43 Page 44 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 May 3 -4, Spring Garden Fair, Clackamas County Fairgrounds, workshop focusing on concepts and sets of tools related to climate Canby, OR. Over 170 vendors selling hanging baskets, annuals, change. Teleconference option in Eugene available. (800) 824- perennials, bedding plants, herbs, shrubs, trees, garden art and 2714; [email protected], http://sustain.uoregon.edu. almost anything else garden related you can think of. Email [email protected]. May 12th, 2-4: Coos County Local Foods Community Forum. Coos Bay, OR. Come and share what YOU feel are the most May 3, Herb Garden Work Party. Wise Acres Farm. Pleasant important food needs for Coos County. Find out how you can help Hill, Oregon, 10:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m (Bring a sack lunch) Come strengthen our local food system. Network with other food indus- meet other herbal enthusiasts. Weed and take herbs home to grow. try members and consumers. FMI call (541) 888-7057. Sponsored Info at www.herbaltransitions.com, contact at by Oregon Coast Community Action. [email protected], (541) 736-0164. May 15-19. Intro to Small Acreage Sustainable Farming May - August, From Ground to Globe: Conversations on Food. Quillisascut Farm, 2409 Pleasant Valley Rd. Rice, WA Learn from Coos Bay, OR. A series of evening talks on various food topics. experienced value-added producers through a hands-on, multidisci- Topics include: The Politics of Organic, Healthy Soils, Food and plinary, immersion course in small-scale sustainable farming. $495. Culture, Secrets of Successful Direct Marketing, Local Foods for Contact Lora Lea Misterly at (509) 738-2011; email: rmisterly@ Restaurants and more. Dates TBD. FMI call (541) 888-7057. ultraplix.com, www.quillisascut.com. Sponsored by Oregon Coast Community Action.

May 3-4, 6th Annual Willamette Valley Permaculture Design Course. Cascadia Permaculture Institute, Eugene, OR. Certifica- tion course. Gain a clearer understanding of theory, design, and practice of ecological design through lecture, discussion, slide shows, design projects, and hands-on experience. (541) 683-5066; [email protected].

May 3-4, Clackamas County Master Gardeners Spring Garden Fair Clackamas County Fairgrounds. Over 170 vendors selling hanging baskets, annuals, perennials, bedding plants, herbs, shrubs, trees, garden art and almost anything else garden related you can think of, plus the “10-Minute University” filled with great gardening information.

May 4, 6th Annual Northwest Biodiesel Forum. Seattle Cen- ter Fisher Pavilion, Largest regional biodiesel event for end-users - complete with a Renewable Energy Expo, biodiesel demonstra- tions, interactive panels, kids’ activities, and vehicle show. See www.nwbiodiesel.org.

May 4, Essential Seed Saving Techniques for Home and Small Farm. Sunbow Farm, Corvallis. Food Security begins with the sav- ing of seeds. An opportunity to learn from those who do it success- fully year after year. Carol Deppe, Ph.D., teaches (541) 929-5782; [email protected].

May 8, Measuring your Organization’s Footprint. U of Port- land Center 102, 722 SW 2nd Ave., Portland. Joshua Skov leads a

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 45 Calendar Continued from page 45 May 15-19, Introduction to Small Acreage Sustainable Farm- June 1, Fall and Winter Organic Gardening. Sunbow Farm, ing. Quillisascut Farm. Rice, WA. Learn from experienced value- Corvallis. What’s with Winter in Summer? Why timing is es- added producers through a hands-on,multidisciplinary, immer- sential. Varieties for planning Fall and Winter foods, strategies for sion course in small scale sustainable farming. (509)738-2011; germination. Fertility, how much of what, when? Technical aids, [email protected], www.quillisascut.com. an introduction to off season equipment. Instructor: Harry Mac- Cormack (541) 929-5782; [email protected]. May 15, Renewing your soil’s health. Metro Recycling, Port- land. Dr.Elaine Ingham, of Soil Food Web, Inc. presenting. Learn June 5 – 11, Advocate sustainable living and design.Wolf how and where to test your soil and compost for biological activ- Gulch Farm, 32272 Wilson Creek Road, Cottage Grove. Learn ity and where to find biologically active compost and compost powerful teaching techniques that communicate whole-systems tea. Free. Advance registration required; call (503) 234-3000. education and Permaculture principles for a wide variety of set- tings. Registration deadline May 29 or contact Denise at permac- May 17, Getting to Net Zero. East Portland Community Cen- [email protected]. ter. Many houses have the potential to achieve net-zero energy use. In this seminar, we will highlight several strategies for getting Wasington State Fairs. For listings, go to www.wastatefairs. to net-zero in Oregon and learn about local net-zero homes. com/fairdates.htm. (503) 231-5662; [email protected]. June 7, Water Efficient Gardening. Clackamas Community Col- May 17-18, Greener Homes and Gardens Show. Portland Expo lege, Clackamas, OR. Clairmont Hall East parking lot. See how Center. More information at www.greenerhomesandgardens. the Water Efficient Demonstration Garden has grown. Includes com/about.htm. tours of the garden, information on water efficient landscaping and soil, plant experts and free giveaways. May 18, In the Spirit of the Garden. Sunbow Farm, Corvallis. What are the “natural” processes and how do we align with them? June 14, Preventing pests and improving fruit quality. Port- Exploration of the “spiritual” elements guiding organic and other land. We will be thinning our apple and pear trees for bigger and ag. (541) 929-5782; [email protected]. better fruit quality and bagging fruit to prevent insect damage. 9:00am - 11:30am Call to register (503) 823-1612. May 19, Farmer-to-Farmer tour: Passing on the Wisdom. Willie Green’s Organic Farm, Monroe, WA. Jeff Miller will share June 16 – 20. 16th IFOAM Organic World Congress: Cultivate his innovative ideas for getting a jump on early mixed vegetable the Future, Modena, Italy. Variety of sessions on organic viticul- production. A wide range of growing, season extension, harvest- ture, organic fiber and textile, fruit growing and more. ing, and marketing techniques. Tilth Producers, (206) 442-7620; Visit www.ifoam.org/events/ifoam_conferences/owc/Organic_ nancy@tilthproducers, orgwww.williegreens.org. World_Congress.html.

May 28 – June 9, Intensive Permaculture Design Course June 16 – August 8, Ecovillage and Permaculture Certificate Portland Permaculture Institute, Portland 72-hour certificate pro- Program. Lost Valley Education Center. Dexter, OR. Practi- gram is a 13-day intensive design course will be taught by Geoff cal tools for self-reliant living and sustainable human habitats. and Nadia Lawton. Program includes a full permaculture design course, and provides www.portlandpermaculture.com/permaculture_classes.shtml. a holistic introduction to ecovillages, intentional communities and social permaculture: : $2315-$3685 sliding scale (including ac- May 28, NW Ecobuilding Guild: Cascadia’s Living Building commodations and prepared organic meals.) (541) 937-3351 ext Challenge for Houses. Ecotrust Conference Center, Portland. 112; [email protected]. Our presenters will include a member of Cascadia GBC, who de- veloped The Living Building Challenge, and members of a team June 21, Free compost class. Portland Community Gardens engaged in the process of creating a Living Building house. Free and Master Recyclers Turn kitchen scraps and yard debris into a to Guild members, $5-$15 donation suggested for non-members. healthy soil amendment teeming with life. 9:00am - 11:30am. Mike O’Brien (503) 823-5494; [email protected], Call to register (503 )823-1612. www.ecobuilding.org. June 20 – 22, The Black Sheep Gathering. Black Sheep Gathering. May 25, Weeds: the toughest limiting factor in an organic, Lane County Fairgrounds Eugene. Celebrating natural colored biologically based agriculture. What does weed language tell animals and their fiber. Sheep and Angora Goat shows, Wool us? Management, rotation, edibles, green manure crops. Sunbow Show and Sale, Workshops, Talks and Demonstrations. Contact: Farm, Corvallis. Instructor: Harry MacCormack The Black Sheep Gathering, Inc. (541) 484-1011, email: leslie@ (541) 929-5782; [email protected]. fishwhistle.com, Visit www.blacksheepgathering.org.

Page 46 Calendar M deadlineay / June 2008 for •July In Good / August Tilth • Volu Inm eGood 19, N uTilthmber 2 is May 20th. Membership Name Your membership fee gives crucial support to Tilth’s Research & Education Address programs, entitles you to a one-year subscription to In Good Tilth, gives you free County classifieds and reduces your admission fee at Tilth-sponsored events. $10 more enrolls you in the Oregon Tilth Yard and Garden program. Additional donations City, State, ZIP to Oregon Tilth Research & Education are welcomed! Detach and mail with your

Phone check for $30 ($40 outside U.S.), plus $10 for the Yard and Garden program, if applicable, to: Email Enclosed is my membership fee plus a Research & Education donation of ____. Oregon Tilth, 470 Lancaster Dr. NE,

Enclosed is my additional $10 for one year for the Salem, Oregon 97301 Yard and Garden program. I am a current member with a new address.

Catagory Voting Privilege Benefits Dues Please allow six to eight weeks for delivery of In Good Tilth. Oregon Individual 1 Vote -In Good Tilth Subscription $30/year ($40 outside U.S.) Tilth Certified Organic -Free classifieds in IGT $150 ($160 outside U.S.) growers, processors and -OTCO directory (1) Lifetime restaurants are eligible -Discounts (1 person) to events for complimentary membership. If you are a certified operator making Household 1 Vote -In Good Tilth Subscription $45/year ($55 outside U.S.) an additional donation, Primary Member -Free classifieds in IGT $225 ($235 outside U.S.) please indicate your Identified -OTCO directory (1) Lifetime status. For questions about membership contact -Discounts (2 person) to events Oregon Tilth, (503) 378-0690. Non-profit 1 Vote -In Good Tilth Subscription $60/year ($70 outside U.S.) Organization Primary Member -Free classifieds in IGT $300 ($310 outside U.S.) THANKS FOR Identified -OTCO directory (2) Lifetime -Discounts (5 person) to events YOUR

For-profit 1 Vote -In Good Tilth Subscription $100/year ($110 outside U.S.) SUPPORT! Organization Primary Member -Free classifieds in IGT $500 ($510 outside U.S.) I do not want my name Identified -OTCO directory (2) Lifetime listed as a new member. -Discounts (5 person) to events

New Oregon Tilth Supporting Members - with a total of 851 Regional Chapters Moss Adams LLP Jean Ann Van Krevelen B Street Project, Cliff & Amy Lynn Binstock Newton Law Forest Grove Patricia Bronstein Jacque Lee Contact Terry O’Day, Nikki Brophy Rachel Lemons (503) 352-2765 Jon Bruck Eugene Lyons Corvallis Garden Club Meetings are the second Sunday of every month. Phil Finch Erin Mahan Contact Colin King, Kathryn Oliver-Garnett Ruby Mahr (541) 758-0316 Ariel Wilsey-Gopp Virgil Morris Jessica Harrington John O’Brien In Good Tilth online Visit the IGT page on the Tilth site for a list- Tenneal Haug James Patton ing of distribution sites, select online articles, display ad rates and specs, deadlines for theme- Jim Hays Rosauers Supermarkets issue articles, classifed and calendar listings, J. Gabriel Consulting LLC Steven Ribeiro and sending letters to the editor. Visit www. tilth.org/IGT/index.html. Ron Jones Michael Wildfeuer Leonore Kohn

Bold indicates Yard & Garden member

May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2 Page 47 ORGANIC GROWERS WANTED

Scenic Fruit Company is looking for new growers.

CROPS: • Rhubarb • Strawberries • Red and Black Raspberries • Blackberries • Blueberries ALL VARIETIES! Please call or email for more information: (503) 793-3764 Ask for Jay [email protected]

Page 48 May / June 2008 • In Good Tilth • Volume 19, Number 2