418: Is Small Farming Sustainable?

418: Is Small Farming Sustainable?

Author: Weston A. Price Foundation May 1, 2023 Duration: 33:46

In 2022, Vermont had 130 organic farms. Just one year later, there are only 60, with another 30 expected to go out of business in the next 12 months. How can we turn things around? And is small farming actually sustainable?

Cynthia and Rich Larson of Larson Farm in Vermont are grass dairy farmers that are working on the sustainability of their own farm and of those around them, too. They know that sustainability has to do with more than just what works for the land. It must also be valuable for the community and economically sustainable for the farmer. This is one reason they have joined hands with a local Land Care Community of 17 grass-based dairies in Vermont. They are a group that wants to leave the land in better shape than when they found it. They are working to improve the ecosystem, protect the watershed, reduce pollution and regenerate the soil. They use modern equipment and strategies for facing farming challenges.

Rich and Cynthia today tell their story about that partnership, how and why they transitioned from commercial farming to organic, and why they invite others to get into farming, too.

Check out their website: larsonfarmvt.com

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Hosted by the Weston A. Price Foundation, Wise Traditions explores a path to well-being rooted in the diets and lifestyles of ancestral cultures. This podcast operates from a simple premise: that the secrets to robust health aren't found in the latest trends or synthetic supplements, but in the time-tested traditions of our ancestors. Each episode delves into practical wisdom, from preparing nutrient-dense foods and understanding the role of animal fats to exploring holistic approaches to fitness and mental wellness. You'll hear from researchers, farmers, doctors, and practitioners who are applying these principles today, offering conversations that challenge conventional health narratives. The discussions are grounded in the work of Dr. Weston A. Price, whose famous observation that "Life in all its fullness is mother nature obeyed" serves as a guiding light. Tuning in provides a deep dive into how traditional foods, regenerative agriculture, and a respectful approach to nature's design can fundamentally reshape your health. It's for anyone feeling disconnected from natural ways of living and curious about how the wisdom of the past can inform a healthier, more vibrant present. The Wise Traditions podcast is a resource for those ready to look beyond the mainstream and consider how ancestral knowledge holds critical answers for modern life.
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