I have been reading articles in the paper where certain people are assuming what farmers want to grow.
As a farmer, we are growing what the consumer wants.
Farmers are expected to grow up to several times more yield, and as fast as possible compared to the past to feed a larger population.
It is the consumer that dictates what and how fast the farmer has to grow food. Consumers want fast food and cheap food.
The consumer market for natural, organic, or slow food (whether plant or animal) is a very small piece of the pie.
If consumers start demanding healthier food and are willing to pay for healthier food, the farmers will gladly fill that market.
When you are trying to dictate what a farmer should or should not do, think not only of yourself but also of all the consumers.
As a farmer I am forced to grow what the consumers are demanding, just to make a living.
I am positive that most other farmers would share the same view.
Quit blaming the farmer, and trying to dictate our right to make an honest living according to the consumer market.
Start in your own backyard and look also at what the consumer market is demanding.
There is a much bigger picture here.
Jackie Issler
Lumby
