Bringing the future of agriculture to the table

Earth Food Inc Press Release

29th October 2009

For Immediate Release

Biological agriculture: bringing the future of agriculture to the table

Farmers and growers practising biological agriculture around New Zealand now have an industry body to represent their concerns with the formation of Earth Food Inc. The aim of Earth Food Inc is to engage consumers, scientists, government and farmers in discussions around how nutritional food can be grown using biological methods and the positive implications for the health of the planet.

Over the next 12 months Earth Food Inc is running a busy calendar with a variety of forums to educate and inspire for change, including a national road show, biological/carbon farming workshops and an educational website.

Nicole Masters, from Integrity Soils, chairwoman for Earth Food Inc, is undertaking a nationwide survey of biological practitioners to collect their case studies using an experiential science approach which aims to collate and share real world experiences with the greater community.

For those unfamiliar with biological agriculture it can be summarised as a management approach that promotes beneficial soil microbe activity through the use of full spectrum mineral and microbial applications, which in turn enhances nutrient quality and plant and animal health. “It is a comprehensive, natural science approach that answers the issues vexing our environment and economy.” Phyllis Tichinin, Earth Food Inc Executive.

Those skilled in biological agriculture use a variety of observational skills, tools and meters to mark their progress and take the guess work out of foliar and soil fertiliser applications. These tools can also be used to predict and reduce the threat of fungal disease and insect attacks.

The methods of achieving nutrient density hold the solutions to all the other agricultural challenges including erosion, nitrate leachate, poor animal health, increased fuel usage, chemical residues, soil carbon losses, traceability, climate change pressures etc.

“The soil, and humus in particular, is the lungs and stomach of our planet. It cleanses the air and digests organic matter so we can survive. All healthy, efficient plant growth depends on soil microbes. All human life depends on healthy, nutrient dense plants for food, fuel and fibre.”

According to Nicole Masters, biological farming is not a “silver bullet” approach, but one that involves good science and holistic management. The biological approach appears to offer solutions that seem too good to be true; but what Nicole and others are finding is that “across the board farmers find a reduction in pests, weeds and disease”. “Once land managers adopt the biological approach, they don’t turn back to the full chemical approach.”

If you wish to obtain more information about Earth Food Inc or any upcoming workshops please contact Nicole@integritysoils.co.nz www.integritysoils.co.nz

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