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Organic agriculture is a system of farming based on ecological principles. The goal is to produce nutritious food in such a way that the soil and environment remain healthy, not depleted or polluted. No chemical fertilizers or chemical pesticides are used. Fertility is provided by cover crops and compost. Pests are minimized by crop rotations, timed plantings and, as a last resort, biological pesticides.
To sell a product as “organic” the farmer must follow the organic rules and be certified by a government agency. Some farmers produce crops using organic practices but because of the expense and paperwork, choose not to be certified. They are often called sustainable farmers since the purpose of these agricultural practices is to produce food without damaging or wearing out the land or water, so that it can continue to sustain production year after year.
It is a good idea to look for the organic seal when you are buying at a store because you don't know where it has been and the seal affords some measure of accountability, but the best method is to be able to see for yourself how your food is grown, buying from a local farmer you know and trust. At Cane Creek Farm, you can see our sustainable, natural process in action, and you can taste the difference in our fruits and vegetables. We grow everything at Cane Creek Farm without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
Links to more information about organic and sustainable farming: