Compost and manure are holy to me and many of my fellow farmers but for many who have lost sight of the vital connection between their daily lives and farming, organic waste is seen as a problem that is dirty and dangerous  - not a vital ingredient to build healthy soils and grow nourishing food. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the newly passed Food Safety and Modernization Act is proposing regulations that would undermine uses of compost and manure currently approved under the National Organic Program.  Currently the proposed regulations seem to be driven more by food safety fear than sound science, leading to 'sterile' and 'scorched-earth' approaches to the problem.  The FDA's proposed regulations don't recognize the importance of organic farming and conservation practices as a valuable contributor to reducing the risk of pathogens. Proposed regulations aimed at curtailing the use of compost and manures are based on misguided assumptions, striking at the heart of organic and sustainable farming practices helping to build healthy and fertile soils.  Continue reading on our web site

We have until November 15th to submit comments, the link below will connect you to the website of The Wild Farm Alliance which has been actively raising awareness about this issue. Thank you for your time and attention on this important matter.  

 

Send your comments today if you can. Speak out on the Food Safety Modernization Act!