Folks who farm, love what they do. But farming can be very hard work, both mentally and physically. The rewards can be there, but not always. Farming is a risky business. A farmer obviously needs to make a good living – who wants to work their fingers to the bone and make no money? But for most farmers, the real rewards are not material. Ask an organic farmer, and they will probably tell you that they couldn’t imagine living any other way. Even with the down times, as long as they can make a living, they will continue to farm their entire lives. Working independently, outside in harmony with the weather and the land, is something indescribable for most of them. The relationship they build with their land can’t be counted in dollars.
Living the independent life, whatever you do, has its ups and downs. You may have time to do what you want, but no money with which to do it. The independence that comes with the farming life has so many benefits to the health and wellbeing of the farmer and this translates into the health and wellbeing of the consumer.
The farmers we work with at Woodstock Farms do good for themselves, for the environment, for the land and for us.
But, having said that, many are having a difficult time maintaining their farms through these tough economic times. Government policies and regulations do not offer the incentives that make farming an economically attractive livelihood. Making their farms profitable is no easy task and one that requires constant effort. Balancing the need to make a profit with the desire to do so in an environmentally friendly way presents an ongoing challenge to our farmers. Looking for strategies that will ensure the sustainability of their farm for profit, for the environment and for the future, can be a constant and wearing test.
The uncertainties of the farming life present the challenge, an abundant healthy crop is the reward. Knowing that their life has true meaning is what keeps many farmers doing what they do. We support them in this endeavor.
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