Is Organic farming is for me?

Organic farming requires developing and maintaining an ecological system where nature solves problems with proper management. It also involves keeping good records of production practices and yields. Consumers can be assured the product is organic, as labeled, through records and a tracking system that allows tracing the product back to the very field or farm on which it was produced.

Developing and maintaining this system is part of the attraction for some producers and frustration for others. Before you change the way you farm, think about what the change will mean to you and your family. Visit with successful organic farmers. Contact organic certifying organizations to understand the requirements for certification. Talk it over with the people who have a financial stake in the farm and spend time researching and reading everything you can on the subject. It is recommended that this process be initiated a year before the first crop you plan to produce organically, since some certifiers require that land be inspected the year before it goes into organic production. More time spent preparing for the change will result in less stress and anxiety when you begin the transition.

Goals of a organic farmer

Organic farming will require you to prevent the problem from happening, not treat the problem once it emerges. This is what most new producers find most difficult to manage and accept. Sometimes organic producers accept losses, gain experience, and salvage what is left of the crop for livestock feed or other uses.

Characteristics of successful organic farmers

While not all successful organic farmers have these characteristics, they are common to many of them:

• They farm organically because they seek a safer food supply and a better environment, not because of the hope for premiums. Those producers who get into organic farming just for the premiums generally last less than two years.

• They are very observant and patient.

• They have a good understanding of the ecological system they have created.

• They have developed extremely good marketing skills and devote much effort and time in seeking out strong market outlets.
• They are a very open and caring people who are usually willing to share stories of success and failure.

• They are people who have incorporated their faith and beliefs into their production practices.

Keys to a successful conversion to organic farming

• Talk to successful producers and take their advice in the beginning.
• Be willing to spend some time in learning the systems approach.
• A mind switch must occur from treating the problem to treating the cause of the problem. This becomes prevention. Some well intentioned farmers never do entirely comprehend this approach.
• Marketing of organic production needs special attention and knowledge.