Empy Harvest

Empty Harvest, two opposing words, empty: containing nothing; not filled or occupied harvest: the process or period of gathering in. In this country we not only have an empty harvest but a toxic harvest as well. This November Oregon and Colorado both have ballot measures which would require the labeling of genetically modified foods. I mention this because it points to the state of modern industrial agriculture. We now know that foods grown on organic farms have up to 10 times the nutrient levels of foods grown using conventional methods. Organic farmers tend not only plants but soil. Soil is a living organism just like plants, soil is rich in micro organisms and requires tending the way plants do. The micro organisms in soil aid plant growth by breaking down nutrients making them more bio-available and easier for the root system to absorb nutrients. Healthy foods and healthy farms are revolutionary yet rely on tradition, it is a way to move forward and honor the past. Genetically Modified Foods In the realm of GMO foods there are many questions that have not been fully addressed. Mainly the safety of these organisms to people and the environment. I feel it is foolish to ignore these questions because more than once human cleverness has left us disappointed. Beyond the safety issues there are cultural implications. Genetically modified seeds require a licensing agreement, this prevents farmers from practicing the time honored tradition of seed saving. Seed saving is a historical practice many farmers have participated in. It was a way to naturally improve their crops by selecting seeds from the healthiest most tolerant plants. This is one aspect of bio-engineered foods which I find most disturbing, a few multi national companies in control of the nation and worlds seed supply. Consolidation of this nature doesn't lead to sovereignty and poses many unforeseen risks and dangers. While not all conventional agriculture uses genetically modified seeds, they both function on a large industrial scale which is out of touch with the balance of the natural world. In one sense the rise of gluten intolerance and celiac while not pleasant or welcome does steer people away from commercial wheat. Though in place of wheat and gluten many companies are making products with corn and potato starch. Commercial corn is the most of genetically modified seed crop and potatoes are also commonly genetically modified. Personally I would like to see a shift away from the use of corn because it is a common allergen and most people have corn sensitivity and don't know it. A Way Forward Support your local farmers, shop at the farmer's market, purchase organic food, and start a backyard garden. Choose wisely, your food choices tell the market what you value and what you don't. Remember you do have a voice and your choices can make a difference. Create a revolution, grow your own food.