By Tatum Gogna
As we recognize National Organic Month this September, it’s a great time to look at what organic agriculture means to Nevada and to learn more about the practices behind the organic label. Rob Holley, Grow Organic Nevada coordinator at the University’s Desert Farming Initiative and operator of Holley Family Farms, sheds light on the topic.
Through his work with this program, part of the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources’ Experiment Station, Holley helps producers become certified organic. His own experience as an organic farmer gives him firsthand knowledge of the requirements of organic production and the role these practices can play in supporting Nevada’s agriculture industry, environment, communities and economy.
What does organic mean?
For many consumers, the word “organic” may seem to be a general term for healthy food or be confused with the many labels at markets. But organic agriculture is defined by specific U.S. Department of Agriculture standards that farmers must follow.
“Many have been led to believe that food grown in a huge field or large farm is not really consistent with organic ideology,” Holley said. “Organic in practice applies to farms and ranches of all sizes. It is closely regulated to assure the consumer that organic products are free of synthetic and petroleum-based fertilizers and pesticides, as well as free of genetically modified seed.”
Source : unr.edu