I appreciate the farmers of America!

The major elements of sustainable farming include 3 main branches. These 3 include: environmental protection, social responsibility and economic viability. Environmental protecting seeks to keep the air land and water free and clear of pesticide residues and from any fertilizer run off. It seems increasingly important to look out for the health of our ground water, and recharge of aquifers. It is under this first branch of sustainable farming where ecological principles fall. These principles include the care and concern for our environment and ecological systems we live with. Social responsibility deals with the health and safety of the farm workers, and also making sure that the products that they use for crop protection are being used and applied in the proper ways. The last key feature of sustainable farming looks at economic viability which encompasses some rather vague political and cost-benefit analysis elements.

Dr. Durham also took the time to show the class all of the work that goes into his farm from back home in Long Island. I was so amazed by all of the elements of production that add up to the care and keeping of a farm. (His family's is around 30 acres if memory serves.) Absolutely incredible-- I was so impressed with how dedicated his family is to the farm, and it definitely makes me appreciate our hard working farmers all around America and all around the world!

After talking about the scale of farming (sustainable, organic, conventional, industrial) I thought about the types of products I buy. I usually avoid “organic” anything because it tends to be more expensive than just the conventional products. And I would also say that I don’t go out of my way to buy anything that says “natural” either, I guess that is jut a bonus!

I don’t feel disconnected with the current food system. I try to be as in tune with all the nutrition trends but I always stick to my motto of “everything in moderation.”

If space provided at FGCU, I would definitely be interested in growing my own fruits and vegetables. There is a group that has already put that idea into action, because I spent 5 hours digging it up! One day, there will be big trees that grow wonderful tropical fruits. In fact, in thinking about all this, I am even inspired to take on making one at my own residence. I think it would be extremely rewarding to keep up with a garden, not to mention delicious!