Path to a New Farm Bill: Sustainable and Organic Research
In comparison to the enormous opportunity that sustainable and organic agriculture represents for farmers and rural communities, federal investment in related research, education, and extension has been minuscule. Failure to robustly fund public research that promotes ecologically-based production systems stifles scientific and technical innovation and leaves US farmers and ranchers unable to fully participate in and benefit from emerging markets for sustainably-produced foods. The effects of climate change on farmers are becoming ever more apparent. At the same time, the US is losing small and mid sized family farms at a rapidly increasing rate. It is therefore imperative that the next farm bill prioritizes research that benefits a broad range of farmers through the growth of more diversified and resilient farming systems, instead of directing limited public funding into research that promotes monoculture-based systems and benefits only a small subset of farmers.
Organic Valley Creates Greenest Ads Grazed by Cows
Organic Valley, the leading farmer-owned organic cooperative, has unveiled an innovative new way to create ads: cows grazing pasture to spell out letters. Cows on three Organic Valley farms across the country are eating pasture grasses around strategically placed fences that form the word “BUZZ-WORTHY” and an emoji-like bee. The ads are eye-catching, environmentally friendly and beneficial for the ecosystem. They provide habitat for pollinators, such as honeybees, and prevent soil erosion and water runoff. All materials from the zero-waste ads are reused as feed or fencing.
Is Environmental Consciousness Associated with Organic Food Consumption?
The authors say, “The results imply that emphasizing the environmental benefits of organic farming, in addition to health benefits, could help promote organic food sales. Organic food marketing should highlight environmental aspects to appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Policymakers aiming to expand organic production may also want to raise awareness of organic farming’s ecological advantages.”
The Largest Retailer Of Organic Foods In The US Isn’t Whole Foods
When you think of buying organic foods, Whole Foods might be the first name that comes to mind. However, the title of the largest retailer of organic foods in the United States doesn’t actually belong to the upscale grocery chain. Surprisingly, it’s Costco that holds this distinction. The company has steadily risen to the top by offering a wide variety of organic products at competitive prices, making organic foods accessible to millions of American households. This shift underscores the changing landscape of organic food retail, where affordability and bulk purchasing are key as more and more shoppers seek out certified organic food.
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/largest-retailer-organic-foods-us-180559854.html
USDA Funds NC State Specialty Crop, Organic Research
NC State University will receive more than $18.3 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture funding for research on specialty crops and organic agricultural production.
https://cals.ncsu.edu/news/usda-funds-nc-state-specialty-crop-organic-research/
