I have a few comments for you, Dr, Reetz. Something you may not be
aware of is that most farmers farm because we love the work- it's our
true vocation. This is the only explanation why we continue to operate
farms ("businesses") that produce such a small return on investment
(ROI). If we were only interested in ROI (or the "business") we would
choose anything BUT farming. I told Richard Romminger (USDA
Undersecretary) this and challenged him to go into any factory or
business and ask how many people there would continue working if they
weren't paid.
Also, I would like to say to you that one of the problems I've had in
talking with USDA and Extension people is that we speak entirely
different languages. (I refer you to Dean & Andrew's definitions.) Words
like "Sustainable" & "efficiency" mean vastly different things to all of
us.
And let me reinforce "sacred trust." I grow food in a manner that
increases fertility of the soil, has the least impact on the immediate
area and watershed and provides others with food that is of the highest
quality- fresh, full of nutrients and no manmade chemicals. This is what
farmers attempt, not necessarily "farm businesses" or agribusiness where
the motive is primarily profit.
And please do not castigate this discussion group because most disagree
with you. Your post was sent out unedited, just like everyone else's. If
we find ourselves surrounded by other viewpoints, perhaps we should look
at our own beliefs rather than casting aspersions at others. It could be
that you are experiencing form the inside what I have observed from the
outside- Most in Extension & USDA are secluded in the fraternity of Ag
schools and Ag offices and are baffled when a bunch of uppity farmers
speak up against the popular paradigm. I refer you to the fable, "The
Emperor's New Clothes."
Good luck in your journey for knowledge.
Alex
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