Re: I've read the new standards

Beth von Gunten (colibri@west.net)
Mon, 5 Jan 1998 12:59:29 -0800

> I'd appreciate hearing any further discussion on this topic. I realize
>some of the organic purists may have some problems with my philosophy, but I
>will ask them how much experience they have had raising livestock and ask them
>to think about the moral aspects of withholding treatment from animals that
>would otherwise keep them healthy. Also consider that what is practical for
>raising a few pigs or lambs, or a steer to put in the freezer may not be so for
>a larger herd or flock.
>Marjorie Rayburn <mrayburn@chowan.ces.state.nc.us>

Hi Marjorie.

My understanding of organic livestock production is not that it requires
that treatment be withheld from suffering animals, but that alternative
therapies consistent with organic standards be used instead, as long as the
animal is to be marketed as organic. The option is always left open to
treat the animal conventionally if the farmer feels the necessity. That
animal could no longer be marketed as organic, but the decision to treat
and how to treat remains at all times with the farmer.

Beth von Gunten
Ventura County, California

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