AgChat on Conventional Agriculture Systems
Note: The posts are read from top to bottom.
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agchat:
Guidelines for #agchat, 8-10pmET 1)intro w/ location & #ag interest 2)stay on topic 3)start responses w/ Q# 4)play nice, be professional
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agchat:
Welcome all, doors are officially open. Glad to see you all. Please keep those intros coming... #agchat
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kmrivard:
Howdy, folks! Kelly from Illinois here. I work in nutrition, I blog about corn. I love SM. I'm in college. Welcome! #agchat
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agchat:
Given the recent #whalefail during our convos, please please PLEASE get to Twubs if you are having any issues with the API. #agchat
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kmrivard:
Sorry to any followers who may or may not be involved in #agchat tonight. If I clog your feed, my deepest apologies.
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weedgirl24:
Karen, agronomist based in IL. Lots of yellow corn and drowned out spots. Happy to be here! #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Robin from Wisconsin here. I'm a cow nutritionist. I advocate for farmer choice & food choice #agchat
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JohnDeereTara:
Tara from Kansas City. Web nerd & writer. Really excited about tonight's convo #agchat.
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agchat:
Great job at keeping those intros flowing - this is your time to socialize before cat herder extraordinaire arrives on the scene! #agchat
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sollmana:
Amanda here in Kentucky on my internship. Will try my best to stay on top of stream, but stolen internet is kinda slow :S #agchat
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TheCoreBlog:
Howdy all, Dan'l here from Texas. I market fresh produce for growers/shippers/packers. #agchat
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MarieB41:
Marie here from Oregon! Loan Officer, Ag policy junky/activist, grass seed farmer,Just leaving work will rejoin n 10 when I get home #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
Hi #agchat. It's Michele in Indiana (finally!), professional #ag speaker, blueberry baker this eve & sitting in moderator's chair. Welcome!
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lmworden:
Lindsey from VT stopping in for a little while tonight...live and work in the dairy industry! Hoping Tweetchat holds up tonight... #agchat
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timyohnka:
Hello everybody! Im Tim from Illinois. I am an agronomy major from Illinois State University. #agchat
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agchat:
@TheCoreBlog Welcome to you and all the other folks. Delighted to see both new and old here. Jump over to Twubs if Twitter fails. #agchat
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agchat:
Have to say I'm shocked - Twitter API appears to be holding up at the beginning of our convo - a rarity in last few weeks! #agchat
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p_staatz:
RT @mpaynknoper: OK, moderator is finally about ready. Phew. And, no, this is not a cake walk, just in case you wondered. :) #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Amy frm hot & humid Ky, Cattle, Horse, & Hay farmer~Also operate a USDA slaughter/processing plant #agchat
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agchat:
Couple of reminders; this is a professional convo, so keep it clean.PLEASE use Q# in advance or @trufflemedia will melt down. :) #agchat
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agchat:
OK, moderator promises to play nice from this account now that we've established Spartans are #1. ROFL! #agchat
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TheCoreBlog:
Thanks for your patience as I learn this process. Having trouble with twubs but will do my best to transition. #agchat
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n_web:
Nick from St. Louis dropping by to say Hey for a bit. I work for Monsanto's Public Affairs dept. #agchat
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agchat:
Topic for this evening is conventional #ag & the many questions surrounding it. LOTS to get through, so we'll be hopping. #agchat
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agchat:
@TheCoreBlog Tweetchat works well unless Twitter API fails, then Twubs offers a back-up to the whalefail. Try tweetchat for now... #agchat
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agchat:
Excited to see a lot of the regulars back - it's been a busy summer for many. And of course, welcome to new tweeps, too! #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @agchat: Excited to see a lot of the regulars back - its been a busy summer for many. And of course, welcome to new tweeps, too! #agchat
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agchat:
Get ready to roll, my friends, Q1 will be up in a couple of minutes. This means you respond with Q1 in ADVANCE of your comments. :) #agchat
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agchat:
Thanks for your efforts to keep this a positive, productive dialogue. We don't expect everyone to agree... #agchat
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1burdette:
Burdette here. Western IL farmer watching much unneeded rain run off and make more ponds. #agchat
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cowartandmore:
Whoa, Kathy Swift, large animal veterinarian, wine drinker, mom, ag lover, jewelry artist, and country girl signing in for #agchat
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agchat:
Q1 via @WayneKBlack How do you define conventional #ag when it is so diverse-organic, natural, local, GMO, sustainable, family owned #agchat
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agchat:
Q1 has now been posted; please keep each other honest with using the Q# in advance of responses; it's really important for archives. #agchat
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nycUlla:
Hi everyone! ULLA here in nyc! So hot! trying to keep cool. #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
RT @agchat: Q1 How do you define conventional #ag when it is so diverse-organic, natural, local, GMO, sustainable, family owned? #agchat
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sollmana:
Q1: I think conventional is a stereotype. It has some things in common, but hard 2 define cuz there are LOTS of differences. #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q1: conventional = how it's been, the accepted norm vs. a niche market like organic or local #agchat
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JohnDeereTara:
Q1: I think of "conventional" as anything that doesn't usually get a modifier. So not necessarily organic. Not necessarily local #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q1 I think conventional is a poorly-applied blanket term. There isn't much way around it though, because #ag is so diversified. #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
RT @sollmana Q1 Think conventional is stereotype. It has some things in common, but hard 2 define cuz there are LOTS of differences. #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q1 I associate the term of conventional w/commodity or production agriculture regardless of the method of farming #agchat
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cowartandmore:
Q1 IMO, it seems like the more technology is used, the more ag is considered conventional. #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q1 But that doesn't mean 'static.' Conventional ag is constantly changing, improving, going more hi tech, etc. #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q1 I think of conventional more as a tillage/pesticide/traditional environment versus organic, local, or niche market. #agchat
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sollmana:
Q1: Conventional, although nicer, is kind of like CAFO. Stereotypical, but helps ppl categorize farming. #agchat
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cownutritionist:
RT @sollmana: Q1: I think conventional is a stereotype. some things in common, but hard 2 define cuz there are LOTS of differences. #agchat
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EddieMill:
@agchat Q1 it gives farmers more tools, like synthetic herbicides and crops. However there's a lot unaccounted for in it! #agchat
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agchat:
RT @weedgirl24 Q1 I think of conventional more as tillage/pesticide/traditional environment versus organic, local or niche market. #agchat
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TruffleMedia:
John Blue #agchat jumping in a bit late from Indianapolis. Yes, please keep using those Q# :)
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lmworden:
I like this. RT @weedgirl24: Q1 I think of conventional more as a tillage/pesticide/trad. environment vs organic or niche market. #agchat
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sollmana:
RT @JohnDeereTara: Q1: I think of "conventional" as anything that doesn't usually get a modifier. So not necessarily organic/local #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q1 some use conventional ag as a derogatory term though. Implying that it isn't environmentally friendly, but with DNR it has to be. #agchat
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BeckyMcCray:
Q1 So, my low tech cow-calf herd is old school, but not really traditional? Is that right? #agchat
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kst8er76:
Q1 #agchat I think #ag is becoming less and less conventional and more diverse and creative.
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q1 conventional can be traditional - beef, pigs, corn, cotton. soybeans - anything "unusual" doesn't get included #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
Q1: Yegads, you know it's fast when I can't even keep up. Conventional is just farming to me. Don't understand the labels, frankly! #agchat
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agchat:
RT @SlowMoneyFarm: Q1 conventional can be traditional - beef, pigs, corn, cotton. soybeans - anything "unusual" doesnt get included #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q1 but sometimes seems like "conventional" is an insult to whatever someone doesn't like #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q1 Honestly, I feel like the categorization is used more as a derogatory term nowadays. Changes 2 fast, terms don't apply that well. #agchat
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timyohnka:
RT @weedgirl24: Q1 some use conv ag as a derogatory term though. Implying that it isnt env. friendly, but with DNR it has to be. #agchat
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lmworden:
I concur. I HATE labels. RT @mpaynknoper: Q1: Its fast when I cant keep up. Conventional is farming to me. Dont understand labels! #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q1 Conventional #agchat: an industrialized agricultural system characterized by mechanization, monocultures, and the use of synthetic..
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EddieMill:
inputs such as chemical fertilizers and
pesticides, with an emphasis on maximizing productivity and profitability. #agchat
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dovefarm:
Q1 maybe 'mainstream ag' is more useful term? it covers whatevr is 'the norm' at that time; all else being 'alternative' in some way #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Not sure yet... could be RT @: Q1 So, my low tech cow-calf herd is old school, but not really traditional? Is that right? #agchat
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n_web:
Q1: I usually of conventional as non-GMO. This discussion is helping me to rethink that. #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Hi all, it's me Barbara, a progressive dairyfarmer from Central CA. Can only stay for a bit...still got work to do! #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q1 even same mgt type dairy to dairy goats - cattle seen as conventional, goats often not, sheep def not! #agchat
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TruffleMedia:
Would it be fair to say 'conventional ag' is a term that changes depending where you live, what you grow, and other local norms? #agchat Q1
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agchat:
RT @dovefarm Q1 maybe mainstream ag is more useful term? it covers whatevr is norm at time; all else being alternative in some way #agchat
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agchat:
RT @TruffleMedia: Q1 Would it be fair to say conventional ag is term that changes depending where you live, what you grow etc? #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Q1 I am a "conventional" by this "title" but feel we are progressive. ALWAYS looking for positive chg for our farm #agchat
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EddieMill:
@agchat I like the first, "mainstream ag"? first time I've run into issue-- it's common in academic field. #agchat
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agchat:
Another minute on Q1 and then we're moving on... a LOT to get to. #agchat
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sollmana:
Q1: Hard, b/c when I think 'conventional' I don't think what the definition is. I just automatically picture a certain type of farm. #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
Check in from the Northeast. FC ee and jersey gal and I'm not talking about New Jersey. #agchat Looking forward to tonight's chat!
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4leafclovercow:
RT @TruffleMedia: Would it be fair to say 'conventional ag' is a term that changes depending where you live, what you grow, and other local norms? #agchat Q1
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mpaynknoper:
Q1 What's wrong with conventional? The horse & plow were once conventional ways to #farm. Tools & techniques evolve. #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q1 Would "contemporary" be a better term for the more mechanized #ag? Rather than "conventional?" #agchat
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sollmana:
Very true. Even though u could produce organic commercially. RT @clairecelsi: Q1 I see conv'l used synonymously w/commercial farming #agchat
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lmworden:
@agchat Q2: I would def. say that it applies to both sides. Consider my family's farm a "convention" dairy farm. (still hate labels) #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
Q1 Tho less than 2% of US pop now live on farms, and for most part, producing commodity, farmers are about as diverse as they get. #agchat
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AnnaGiannini:
Q2 no its both, take for example the feedlot industry that's conventional right? #agchat
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sollmana:
Q2: I think term still applies, but ur more likely to hear 'commercial' applied to animal ag. (ex: commercial hog vs. conv. corn) #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q1 Just important to know 'conventional,' modern, whatever does not mean bad, unsustainable, etc. Some believe it does #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q2 N my POV yes, absolutely. Conventional sells n2 lrgr commodity sys (again, regardless of prod method) Niches create dif mkts #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q2 I know plenty of small folks who finish their beef outside their back door who would call themselves "conventional." #agchat
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kitchenMage:
Q1 "Conventional" means (to me) the way things are generally done. For ag, that means HUGE corp stuff, NOT organic/natural. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q2 Seems "conventional" is volume & popular crops when I hear it used; pigs conventional, chickens but not so much ducks/geese #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q2- Conventional is used in animal agriculture too, usu. for CAFOs or farms that use technology #agchat
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kmrivard:
Hey folks, if you're just dropping in, could you be sure to give us an intro? We'd love to get to know you :) #agchat
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agchat:
RT @kitchenMage: Q1 "Conventional" means (to me) way things are generally done. For ag, that means HUGE corp stuff, NOT organic/nat. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q2 perspective makes a difference as does opinion of what a CAFO is (not always definition) #agchat
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agchat:
RT @kmrivard: Q2 I know plenty of small folks who finish their beef outside their back door who would call themselves "conventional" #agchat
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CropLifeAmerica:
CLA uses "Modern Ag" to describe innovation,stewardship & advancements made by growers to sustainably produce higherquality products #agchat
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dovefarm:
Q2 in UK, 'conventional' when assoc w/ livestock, refers as much 2 breeds, as 2 methods: ie commercial rather than rare breeds #agchat
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sollmana:
Ditto. RT @kmrivard: Q2 I know plenty of small folks who finish beef outside back door who would call themselves "conventional." #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q2 Ask a 4-Her what "method" they use to raise their livestock. They do what's best, not what fits org v conv, etc. Just sayin' :) #agchat
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nycUlla:
Q2 some #grassfed producers use forage crops to finish. Not conventional I guess but lot of farmers transitioning. #agchat
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JeffFowle:
Jeff from CA. Low impact holistic agriculturist checking in for a bit while getting ready to BBQ . #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
Alex with CropLife Foundation here in DC joining! Little late but here! #agchat
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kmrivard:
@dovefarm Q2 That is a GREAT perspective change. Conventional breeds v. specialty breeds (i.e. Angus v. a more rare breed here) #agchat
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agchat:
@JeffFowle Welcome to you and any other latecomers or lurkers - please intro. We're about to move on to Q3... #agchat
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PoppyDavis:
Hi, Poppy Davis checking in from Watsonville California but can't stay long. I'm the ED of @Eco-Farm #agchat
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sollmana:
@jsamuelson56 Q2: If 'conventional' is interchangeable w/ 'typical' then yes I think it is possible to have 'typical' organic farms. #agchat
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kmrivard:
@TheCoreBlog USDA has "natural" qualifications for food (fairly lenient...) but growing is more limited to organic v. not. #agchat
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weedgirl24:
@mpaynknoper Family farms can also be misinterpreted. Some Family Corporations might be more of what people confuse with family farm #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q3 Done correctly from foot-to-foot, from field-to-field, methods are designed to protect soil. Soil = income, yo. #agchat
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MarieB41:
Q3 Generally speaking farmers do what's best for their soil and land so coventional practices evolve to what's best #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q3 No, Conventional practices have to be 'sustainable' or they can't be passed on to next generation. #agchat
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timyohnka:
Q3 No. Many farmers know their own soils and will not push that soil so far as to degrade it. #agchat
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sollmana:
Q3: I don't think so. Even w/small hog operation, we spread manure on garden=building organic matter. #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q3 I know I couldn't properly maintain the soil if I was much bigger - crop rotations and compost physics are key! #agchat
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agchat:
RT @ksfarmgrown: Q3 No, Conventional practices have to be sustainable or they cant be passed on to next generation. #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
Q3: Many conventional practices work to preserve, not degrade soil. Best example is no-till ag. amazing benefits to soil #agchat
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4leafclovercow:
RT @kmrivard: Q3 Done correctly from foot-to-foot, from field-to-field, methods are designed to protect soil. Soil = income, yo. #agchat
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sollmana:
@kitchenMage That's kind of the crazy, yet cool, thing that a family (even a small one) has the ability to produce LOTS of food. #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Q3 We submit a sample at every harvest every field (CA Water Reqmt) to make sure OK. Wouldnt want that to happen. #agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Q3 Good crop rotation practices and reduced till or no till are the best ways to maintain and improve soil quality #agchat
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alrayner302:
#agchat Q3 I guess here in Aus, many croppers are playing with no till methods as traditional cultivation does effect our soils
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MarieB41:
Q3 to be successful you can't degrade your land...they're not making any more of it #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q3 Guess my def of conventional is diff cuz I don't C farming meth or sz as being part of def. Is more mkt that product is sold n2 #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q3 perspective matters; conventional used to be plow, disk, harrow, plant; still is for some #agchat
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EddieMill:
Nice one. RT @timyohnka Q3 No. Many farmers know their own soils and will not push that soil so far as to degrade it. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @MHG_Dairy: Q3 Good crop rotation practices and reduced till or no till are the best ways to maintain and improve soil quality #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
Q3 No, or conventional techniques wouldn't be used. #Farmers want/need to protect their soil to raise plant and animals. #agchat
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lmworden:
@kitchenMage What if that CAFO (which can be as small as 200 milking cows) is operated completely, only using family member labor? #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q3 - Many conventional farmers no-till or strip till. Farmers are also responsible to DNR for soil erosion so they try to minimize #agchat
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JeffFowle:
Q3 Any practice can negatively affect the soil & environment. Need to approach production holistically. #agchat
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agchat:
@lmworden Please use Q# in advance of your responses in all convos so we can keep them sorted. Thanks much! #agchat
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sollmana:
Q3: Conv. farming is getting better at preserving soil. Some practices of the past may have degraded soil, but getting lots better. #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
Q3 -- Biggest misconception, and one I HATE, I always encounter is people who think conventional farmers dont care bout soil & land #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @JeffFowle: Q3 Any practice can negatively affect the soil & environment. Need to approach production holistically. #agchat
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alrayner302:
#agchat, but we do need to match our techniques to our landscape. one size doesn't fit all
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dovefarm:
Q3 conventional as short/term tenant on rented ground is VERY diff 2 conventional on own land :) #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
Q3 seems like a leading question. How would that be in a farmer's best interest? #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Q3 My land is greatest asset. It is my future. I live on it. I drink it's water. I LOVE it. Do anything to protect it! #agchat
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minnemom:
Many "conventional" practices have evolved to improve soil. Little plowing, more striptill here now. Making soil better than before. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @weedgirl24: Q3Many conventional farmers no-till or strip till. Farmers also responsible to DNR for soil erosion-try to minimize #agchat
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AWAapproved:
Q2 Good points everyone has made. But "family farm" doesn't indicate any particular system of farming. Diverse systems are included. #agchat
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zebrafinch:
RT @JeffFowle: Q3 Any practice can negatively affect the soil & environment. Need to approach production holistically. #agchat
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geneticmaize:
RT @CropLifeFdn: Q3 -- Biggest misconception, and one I HATE, I always encounter is people who think conventional farmers dont care bout soil & land #agchat
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lmworden:
RT @CropLifeFdn: Q3 -Biggest misconception I always encounter is people who think conventional farmers dont care bout soil & land #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q3 be it with shovel and rake or equipment in 800 acre field sustaining soil is important #agchat
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nycUlla:
RT @dairygoddess: Q3 My land is greatest asset. It's my future. I live on it. I drink it's water.I LOVE it. Do anything 2protect it! #agchat
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agchat:
@minnemom Welcome, glad to see you here - as well any others I missed. Great crowd, lots of questions, excellent answers. #agchat
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MarieB41:
Q3 I wish "outsiders" knew the soil like my family knows their own soil then they would understand our "conventional" practices #agchat
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agchat:
RT @dairygoddess: Q3 My land is greatest asset. Its my future. I live on it. I drink its water.I LOVE it. Do anything 2protect it! #agchat
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kitchenMage:
@lmworden Then it's a family-run CAFO? (This convo demonstrate terms are ill-used, no true meaning.) (cc@kmrivard) #agchat
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sollmana:
Q3: Any farmer who feels practices aren't working should find something else--org, grassfed, etc. Fine, as long as it works for u. #agchat
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carrieoliver:
@agchat Founder Artisan Beef Institute. Q3 My suspicion is that few farmers would knowingly mistreat their soil. #agchat
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KristaMRose:
Q3 was taught organic/conventional not rltd to sustainability; organic can degrade as much as conventional. sustainability seperate #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
Q3 We eat from our land. We drink from our land. We raise our family on our land. We care for land because it's right thing to do. #agchat
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PoppyDavis:
RT @dovefarm: Q3 conventional as short/term tenant on rented ground is VERY diff 2 conventional on own land :) #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q3 - farming is still about profit and making a living. Farmers will not destroy the land that feeds themselves and their families. #agchat
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4leafclovercow:
RT @mpaynknoper: Q3 We eat from our land. We drink from our land. We raise our family on our land. We care for land because it's right thing to do. #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
RT @dairygoddess: Q3 My land is greatest asset. It is my future. I live on it. I drink it's water. I LOVE it. Do anything to protect it! #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q3 With science and soil tests, conventional tilled soil, including no-till, etc. soil is in better condition than a decade ago. #agchat
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cownutritionist:
RT @mpaynknoper: Q3 We eat from our land. We drink from our land. We raise our family on our land. We care for land because it's right thing to do. #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q3 #agchat do you feel like you could still grow on it without the ammonia input?
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agchat:
@carrieoliver Welcome and thanks for jumping in on Q3. We'll be wrapping it up in a minute, folks, so keep those answers flowing. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @ksfarmgrown: Q3 With science/soil tests, conventional tilled soil, including no-till, soil is in better condition thandecade ago #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @weedgirl24: Q3 farming still about profit/making a living. Farmers will not destroy the land that feeds them & their families. #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
phew! Twubs is having a veryyy hard time keeping up with all the #agchat action tonight!
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MHG_Dairy:
RT @ksfarmgrown: Q3 With science and soil tests, conventional tilled soil, including no-till, etc. soil is in better condition than a decade ago. #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q3 residue is returned to the soil at a depth that it will convert to organic matter, not like when soil was plowed and residue lost #agchat
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agchat:
RT @weedgirl24: Q3 - farming is still about making a living. Farmers will not destroy the land that feeds their families. #agchat
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ederdn:
Ed checking in late. Work for a big food company. Raised on a small farm. Arkansas. #agchat
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JeffFowle:
Q3 Balance must be found with any practice. Diversity & flexibility with holistic approach & an open mind. #agchat
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PoppyDavis:
@dovefarm good point,lots of prime Ca land in shortterm leases,hard4 the growers2invest in soil,need good partnership w/owners #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Q3 My soil gets more care and check ups than us! LOL Gotta keep it healthy...isn't that a no brainer? #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q3 Farmers who mistreat the soil end up doing something other than farming. #agchat
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agchat:
Q4 is now up, keep up the great work & the professional convo. Q3 is now closed... #agchat
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dovefarm:
Q3 I know @deerehenry puts fert on rented, but puts muck n other organic on own fields, to enrich soil 4 long term #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q4 Is there a move out of farming and into bigger #farms and does it cause a need for new types of farming? #agchat
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sollmana:
Q4: I'm not sure I understand the question. Obviously fewer ppl are farming on bigger farms. Is that the 1st part? #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q4 I'm not sure I understand quite how to respond to this question. Does that mean bigger farms don't = farming? #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q4 I would say some are moving towards larger farms, but some like my family are getting off farms jobs instead. #agchat
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nycUlla:
Q4 conventional dairy farmers struggling in my area, hard for them to compete with larger farms. Many turning to grassfed beef. #Agchat
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agchat:
RT @sollmana: Q4: And to the 2nd part-of course new types of farms are always good. Keep innovating & providing consumers w/choices. #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Q4 I think that it has to work for the individual and where they live and their market. #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q4 We're loosing the ag of the middle. Its not bout prod practice, IMO.Its bout creating alternative mkts 2sell n2 & b successful #agchat
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clairecelsi:
Q4: From what I understand, the economies of scale squeeze out smaller farmers, forcing them to get creative #agchat
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ederdn:
Q4. IMHO there's more farming _diversity_ than ever before. Big, small, niche commodity. Agree we need 'em all. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q4 seems big and small can cover different markets, not quite competing; hard for small 2afford some required legislation req #agchat
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drewbender:
Q4 Families can't live off of small farms alone much anymore, but large farms can be sustainable. #agchat
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JohnDeereTara:
Q4 I think statistics show that there are fewer farmers than ever. Not sure anyone- including farmers- is thrilled by that #agchat
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live315:
Matt, working on the technology side for a Dairy Coop checking in here. #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Q4 In CA dairy farms are generational and family run (Yes all 1750 of them) So as family grows farm grows #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q4 Increase in demand means more work to create more crop on less land. Still need man-power and folks with proper skills. #agchat
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agchat:
@live315 Welcome, glad to have you and any other latecomers. Lurkers, lurkers come out wherever you are! #agchat
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drewbender:
RT @kmrivard: Q4 Increase N demand means more work 2 create more crop on less land. Still need man-power & folks with proper skills. #agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Q4 Niche farming has also found its place. Organic local farms supplying restaurants and coops. #agchat
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cowartandmore:
Q4 Larger farms allow owners to hire highly qualified managers that small farms can't afford. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @MHG_Dairy: Q4 Niche farming has also found its place. Organic local farms supplying restaurants and coops. #agchat
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live315:
We keep seeing smaller farms selling out and larger farms continue to grow. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q4 management 10 head different than 200 head, diff than 2000 (of anything) not just bigger. #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q4 'Local' etc. can have its own market, and it's great, but larger conventional operations are needed. Both can exist together. #agchat
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EddieMill:
@drewbender but are they unfair? Q4 Families can't live off of small farms alone much anymore, but large farms can be sustainable. #agchat
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nycUlla:
@drewbender true also seeing small 'convetional' farmers start small biz Like catering or cheese making. Hard now for dairy farmers. #agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Q4 There definitely is a move to bigger farms due to economies of scale and reduced numbers of younger generations taking over farms #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q4 Large farms aren't the only thing putting small folks of business. Urban sprawl is a HUGE PROBLEM here. Farmland disappears FAST. #agchat
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dairygoddess:
I see that when kids don't carry it on 2 RT @live315: We keep seeing smaller farms selling out and larger farms continue to grow. #agchat
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CropLifeAmerica:
Q4 I think growing more on less land will be a major issue moving forward, but will only show how innovative growers can really be! #agchat
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MarieB41:
Q4 Efficiency = profitibality so whether it's becoming larger or diversifying your markets...No doubt it takes creativity for small #agchat
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n_web:
Q4: I believe USDA Census of Ag reported an increase in farmers, reversing a long decline. Guess the inc is due to niche farmers. #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q4 Quit building new houses when the market is already bad. That's a good start. #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q4 Kansas gained number of farms recently, most small. They R filling niche and local markets. It's gr8, but can't feed very many. #agchat
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PoppyDavis:
Q4 Really depends on location & product.If growing specialty near good market small can be very profitable and big can't compete. #agchat
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BeckyMcCray:
Q4 It's tempting to associate the consolidation in ag processors with this question. #agchat
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AWAapproved:
Q4 AWA has certified many farms across US of dif. sizes, reaching a variety of mkts. From 130 Whole Food Markets to farm stands. #agchat
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NYFarmer:
Q4 #agchat In 1970 we had 648,000 dairy farms, today less than 60,000, policies in US and my state (NY) were pro decrease dairy numbers
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agchat:
RT @CropLifeAmerica Q4 Growing more on less land will be major issue moving forward but will only show how innovative growers can be #agchat
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4leafclovercow:
I only see Large farms going out of business here in IN, but i see the smaller farms pull true. so how come you think differently? #agchat
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kmrivard:
Methinks this topic was suggested for the sole purpose of argument, not civil and respectful discussion... #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q4: Are smaller farms going out of business due to necessity? Inability to keep up with change & be progressive. #agchat
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JeffFowle:
Q4 Size in most cases is irrelevant. Demand for product, geographic location & applicable regulations have bigger impact. #agchat
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PoppyDavis:
Q4 If growing undifferentiated commodity crops may need 2get big & stay on cheaper land. If on expensive land must go niche. #agchat
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armessing:
Hey every1 in #agchat! Sorry I'm not participating 2nite, I cant fathom having a hot computer on my lap for 2 hours in a 80 degree house
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live315:
@4leafclovercow It doesn't matter what size the farm is, if the economy doesn't help and it isn't well managed, it will do poorly. #agchat
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EddieMill:
@BeckyMcCray Cool, another insider perspective that doesn't make the literature Q4 re: associate the consolidation in ag processors #agchat
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NYFarmer:
#agchat Q4 In farm bill talks I attended in past urban groups wanted more food and cheaper food
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kst8er76:
Q4 #agchat I think the conventional/traditional farms of small to midsize have had do diversify to remain. Agritainment & Specialization
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katpinke:
Katie from ND, listening in on #agchat w/ one child in bed, two to go. Very interested in this topic of conventional #ag.
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agchat:
RT @PoppyDavis Q4 If growing undifferentiated commod crops may need big & stay on cheaper land. If on expensive land must go niche. #agchat
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MarieB41:
RT @JeffFowle: Q4 Size in most cases is irrelevant Demand 4 product, geographic location & applicable regulations have bigger impact #agchat
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dovefarm:
@agchat Q4 big concerns over proposals 4 mega farms in UK. When was monoculture ever a good thing anywhere? esp re: environment #agchat
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cowartandmore:
RT @JeffFowle: Q4 Size usually irrelevant. Demand for product, geographic location & applicable regulations have bigger impact. #agchat
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agchat:
@live315 Please use Q# in advance of your responses. Helps the hundreds who follow convo later in archives. Thanks!
#agchat
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andyarthur:
Q4 I think most of loss of farms has to do with cheap oil, energy, much cheaper then labor. Bigger machines, bigger farms. #agchat
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kst8er76:
Q4 #agchat In my family, our farm is smaller, but my husband and I went in to #ag business jobs to keep working in #ag.
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sollmana:
Q4: Yes, small/middle had to get creative to stay afloat--who says that's a bad thing? Challenging, yes. But not necessarily bad. #agchat
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agchat:
1 more minute on Q4 and then we'll be off to Q5... #agchat
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dovefarm:
lovely to meet you all - but have to go to bed. Up again in less than 5 hours ;) #agchat
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EddieMill:
RT @andyarthur: Q4 I think most of loss of farms has to do with cheap oil, energy, much cheaper then labor. Bigger machines, bigger farms. #agchat
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agchat:
Q5 via @kjh_786 The definition of monoculture-what makes thousands of acres of potato/beets/vegatables etc diff from a grain crop? #agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Q4 Utilizing all resources including methane on larger dairy farms has proved to be very beneficial. Thinking outside the box #agchat
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dairygoddess:
Q? This nonconventional "Progressive" dairy farmer has to back out and work! Loving the topic and appreciate ALL types of farming! #agchat
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LPELC:
Jill Heemstra in Nebraska here--sorry to join late! Looks like a great convo so far! #agchat
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agchat:
Q5 is now up, my tweeps, Q4 is closed. Keep up the excellent work! #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
RT @agchat The definition of monoculture-what makes thousands of acres of potato/beets/vegatables etc diff from a grain crop? #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q5 I don't think there really IS a difference between monoculture beets v. monoculture corn. Except, corn is the enemy... #agchat
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sollmana:
Q5: Ugh....nothing? Except of course that corn is the devil crop ;) #agchat
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weedgirl24:
@geneticmaize too many people are competing for the same ground. You're right though - their cooperation would most likely benefit. #agchat
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lmworden:
Hmmmm, must be lack of sleep is causing these last two questions to zip right past my head. Probably time to hit the hay. #agchat
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NYFarmer:
#agchat Q4 Other states like Wisconsin made specific efforts to encourage dairy, NY absolutely not, for example
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kmrivard:
Hey lurkers/creepers/new joinees, go ahead and introduce yourselves so we can get to know ya better! Helps to have some bckgrnd info #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
I've seen that with undifferentiated commodities that economics dictate increase in size to maintain a reasonable net income. #Agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q5 not sure - don't see or hear too many thousand acre fields of peppermint or peppers :-) #agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Q5 No difference, same concept with one variety in the field. #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
RT @NYFarmer Q4- I don't think the intent has been to decrease cow or farm numbers... but rather due to changing times #agchat
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kst8er76:
RT @JeffFowle: Q4 Size in most cases is irrelevant. Demand 4 product, geographic location & applicable regs have bigger impact. #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Q5 Corn is tied to ethanol and high fructose corn syrup, so farmers get a bad wrap for growing them. Who doesn't love a potato? #agchat
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agchat:
We'll be jumping to Q6 in a minute; seems as though Q5 is something we can agree on... #agchat
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n_web:
Q5: I think many people don't realize that many farmers plant many types of corn/beans on their farms. Tech, not monoculture, right? #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q5 Heck, we used to have fields of flowers around here. It's still monoculture if it's gladiolus instead of GMO beans. #agchat
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timyohnka:
RT @JeffFowle:Do folks want to eliminate the 1000A fields of let, tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage,etc? Need to grow what climate allows. #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
We grow 4 types of corn on 1 farm, w/soybeans, wheat etc. RT @EddieMill: Q5 you guys remember potato famine, all grew the same type #agchat
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agchat:
Q6 via @croplifeFdn Why is perception that conventional ag can't be sustainable? Isn't > prod on < land definition of sustainable? #agchat
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kst8er76:
Q5 #agchat I guess I don't see a big difference. Different practices & some different equipment, but same soul ;)
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JeffFowle:
Q5 I still don't understand the desire to criticize various types of ag. As in society, diversity is healthy. #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
RT @agchat: Q6 Why is perception that conventional ag can't be sustainable? Isn't > prod on < land definition of sustainable? #agchat
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CariRincker:
Q6: there isn't a scientific or legal definition of what is or is not "sustainable." #agchat
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WillRogersToday:
Hi. Randall Reeder, Ext. Ag. Engineer, Ohio State U. I work with no-till, cover crops and other cons. tillage systems #agchat
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sollmana:
Q6: Problem is there is no set definition of sustainable. Some don't see it the way the question does. #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
RT @n_web: Q5: Many people don't realize that many farmers plant many types of corn/beans on #farms. Tech, not monoculture, right? #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
RT sollmana Q6: Problem is there is no set definition of sustainable. Some don't see it the way the question does. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q6 I don't have a good answer for; any farm that continues/improves year after year seems sustainable. #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @sollmana: Q6: Problem is there is no set definition of sustainable. Some dont see it the way the question does. #agchat
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cowartandmore:
Q6 IMO, ppl believe that shortcuts or "bad things" must be going on, e.g. land abuse, animal abuse, employee abuse, etc. #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q6 sustainable is environmental externalities- to oil, sea, insects, birds that aren't taken into account. econ/policy #agchat
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Fastline:
Sabrina from Fastline stopping by #agchat. I can never make it on time, thankful for archives and search!
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weedgirl24:
Q6 - conventional = plowing, plowing is not sustainable. Problem is that few farmers actually plow anymore, but percep is they do #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q6- Yes. Provided that there are ample resources (i.e. water, sun, etc.) to grow the crops #agchat
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CariRincker:
Q6: I don't think that simply because land is in production makes it "sustainable" automatically. #agchat
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LPELC:
Yep-sustainable means diff things to diff people! RT @sollmana: Q6: Problem is there is no set definition of sustainable.... #agchat
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dovefarm:
@mpaynknoper thx 4 welcoming me. have enjoyed my first #agchat immensely. always thought it was too 'closed shop' - but not so!
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agchat:
RT @CariRincker: Q6: I dont think that simply because land is in production makes it "sustainable" automatically. #agchat
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n_web:
Q6: for some, that is sustainable. For others, it's not using chemicals. Just depends. #agchat
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CariRincker:
Q6: Sustainability has to do whether the agriculture practices will allow for *future* agricutlure production on that land. #agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Q6 sustainable agriculture refers to ecologically compatible practices - reduced runoff, decreased soil erosion. #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q6- interesting, y'all think that the California central valley will be sustainable? #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
Q6 - Sustainability to me means addressing all sorts of business risk. Environmental is just one of many. #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q6 Sustainable is so misused. Same family, same water, same food, 4,5,6 generations, sounds pretty sustainable. #agchat
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andyarthur:
Q6 conventional ag is based on the economic reality and tech of today... it will evolve as tech, knowledge, energy prices evolve #agchat
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agchat:
@Fastline Glad to see you; we're on Q6. Welcome to you and other latecomers. Glad to have you, just intro yourself! #agchat
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agchat:
RT @MHG_Dairy: Q6 sustainable agriculture refers to ecologically compatible practices - reduced runoff, decreased soil erosion. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q6 45 years or better around farms that did consider wildlife etc; know a lady in IL I counted 200 deer in her corn/hay fields #agchat
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agchat:
RT @ksfarmgrown: Q6 Sustainable is so misused. Same family, same water, same food, 4,5,6 generations, sounds pretty sustainable. #agchat
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live315:
Very true. RT @TruffleMedia: Conventional and sustainable are labels that can be setup to fit the needs of the messenger Q6 #agchat
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kst8er76:
Q6 #agchat I see the ones who are sustainable treating their operation as a business. More than was done on traditional farms. Proactive
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sollmana:
RT @jsamuelson56: Q6 - Sustainability to me means addressing all sorts of business risk. Environmental is just one of many. #agchat
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CariRincker:
Q6: Most farms using conventional agriculture practices are sustainable but sustainability is specific to many factors such as soil #agchat
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ssteever:
RT @jsamuelson56: Q6 - Sustainability to me means addressing all sorts of business risk. Environmental is just one of many. #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
Q6 - Answers to this show how there is so many different def of sustainable out there! Word is quickly losing its meaning #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q6 O.o or what about sustainable as compared to a local production? #agchat
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WillRogersToday:
Q6. Only about 6% of cropland is continuous no-till. Most farmers may not be moldboard plowing, but still doing tillage #agchat
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kjh_786:
Kevin here from western Wisc, sorry I'm late, just got in from mowing lawn and doing heifer chores #agchat
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JeffFowle:
Q6 I pray for the day when labels can be forgotten & family farmers can simply produce food holistically. #agchat
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agchat:
Lots of good dialogue around Q6. We good or can we move on??? #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @JeffFowle: Q6 I pray for the day when labels can be forgotten & family farmers can simply produce food holistically. #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q6 Sustainability 2me is that my farm&neighbors farm can still farm & respect the land & environment #agchat
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LPELC:
Tweetdeck way faster than Twubs tonight--that is a rarity! #agchat
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cowartandmore:
Q6 Sustainability has to consider financial sustainability. Farms (and businesses) have to support themselves. #agchat
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cornwuff:
Hi #agchat. Jim from N. IL checking in to lurk! Agronomist for a local ag coop, very involved in conv. ag.
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MountainFarmer:
#Agchat Q6. Problem is we have some farmers using marketing lingo for media love as a competitive advantage. Trad farmers can't win.
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ksfarmboy:
Q5 I consider a monoculture when only one specific crop is raised, be it corn or wheat. #agchat
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andyarthur:
RT @MHG_Dairy: Q6 sustainable agriculture refers to ecologically compatible practices - reduced runoff, decreased soil erosion. #agchat
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timyohnka:
tillage practices have nothing to do with mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are a weather phenomenon, more of a plant health issue #agchat
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sollmana:
@JeffFowle Q6: Labels exist in all areas of society. Nice thought, but (realistically) doubt we'll see them disappear. #agchat
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agchat:
Q7 Is there a monopoly over one portion of agriculture, such as claims made Food, Inc.? #agchat
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ssteever:
Q6 How about sustaining the most people? Modern ag feeds more people on less land than once thought possible. #agchat
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live315:
Sorry to chat so little and run. Might be back in a few, but hope to join next week! #agchat
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agchat:
Q7 is now up and it will likely bring a variety of opinions. Keep it clean, please. Thanks for your professionalism. #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
Q5 Many areas of the great plains have adopted no till farming system and have had to grow a variety of grain crops in rotation. #agchat
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AWAapproved:
Transparent labels help consumers understand specifics of production. @JeffFowle Q6 I pray for the day when labels can be forgotten. #agchat
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MarksKiosk:
Q7 Was in an ag client planning meeting today. I can tell you they don't think there is any lack of competition. #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
Q7 I'm concerned about some consolidation on meat side of #ag but believe Food, Inc vastly misrepresents "control" over farmers. #agchat
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geneticmaize:
Q7 from a relatively uneducated perspective - there's much consolidation in many ag aspects but no true monopolies for now. #agchat
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LPELC:
Q7 Consolidation is definitely occurring, but don't think "monopoly" is correct term yet #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
C'mon over to Q7, tweeps! RT @agchat: Q7 Is there a monopoly over one portion of agriculture, such as claims made Food, Inc.? #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q7 OK, n respect 2meat I must say yes. My apologies 2my customers following me BUT is n part 2the publics own making. #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
@sollmana Oooh. I dont think monopolies are good, tho. Its healthy to have several players in a market to keep price competitive #agchat
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sollmana:
Q7: Agree with @mpaynknoper. Think Food, Inc. makes it seem like farmers have no control over own choices. Don't think that's true #agchat
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nycUlla:
Farmers should be proud of how they farm. #labels should have meaning. Folks need to learn about production methods. #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
Q7 I think there is less competition out there in certain areas for dairy #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q7 The consumers may think there's a monopoly, but the view from the producers is drastically different. It goes the other way too. #agchat
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CariRincker:
Q7: Smaller farms have the ability to work cooperatively to strengthen bargaining power. There are still big dogs in the fight. #agchat
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cornwuff:
Q7 I can source seed from several companies, and sell grain into many markets? Lot of competition, yet. #agchat
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drewbender:
Q7 I would say no. I think most commodity groups work together and to some it may appear a monopoly. #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @drewbender: Q7 I would say no. I think most commodity groups work together and to some it may appear a monopoly. #agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Q7 Poultry industry may be coming the closest to a monopoly situation with vertical integration. #agchat
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CariRincker:
@Sollmana - Food Inc. also made it seem that consumers don't have choices. They do. People vote with their dollar every day. #agchat
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cornwuff:
Q7 My customers are very independant, and have a lot of choices for suppliers and partners available to them. #agchat
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n_web:
Good chat tonight, everyone. Good convos. Enjoy the rest of the evening. Take it easy, but take it. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @CariRincker: Q7 Smaller farms have the ability to work cooperatively to strengthen bargaining power. Still big dogs in the fight #agchat
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CariRincker:
Q7: The agriculture industry and U.S. consumers also benefit from having the big players. We cannot forget that. Team Ag. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @cornwuff: Q7 My customers are very independant, and have a lot of choices for suppliers and partners available to them. #agchat
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kjh_786:
Q7
farmers have many choices but many do not exercise them #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q7 Meat sys is seriously consolidated . Farmers hv lil control over that. Thy sell n2 the mkt that exists. #agchat
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cornwuff:
Q7 Now, on the meat and poultry side, I see an awful lot of consolidation and vertical integration. I would like to see less. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q7 have been concerned about few in control of "market" for some time-dictate prices, what (breed etc)is raised to conform2mkt price #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q7 Consumers may see membership/check-off organizations and think they are a business running the industry, raises confusion. #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
@NYFarmer States like Wisconson recognized the value of ag, dairy in particular. Some states just didn't have the light click on. #agchat
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geneticmaize:
#agchat Q7 I heard from a farmer that Whole Foods tries to control farmers w unreasonable demands. True or isolated case?
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q7 farms don't have to sell to that but find it very difficult to do something diff for their farm and sell to mkt #agchat
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EddieMill:
#agchat Q7! Genetic diversity, seed distribution, land consolidation, and agricultural product buyers might all be candidates here? #agchat
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geneticmaize:
RT @kmrivard: Q7 Consumers may see membership/check-off organizations and think they are a business running the industry, raises confusion. #agchat
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kst8er76:
Q7 #agchat I don't think there are monopolies. I feel those who see it that way change their habits. Thus changing the game.
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q7 price is docked if not conforming - sometimes under what it costs to raise, but benefit from that w/ access to mkt #agchat
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sollmana:
@jsamuelson56 Yes, but customers make monopolies 2. Microsoft, ag, etc. If $ spent disproportionately, control is disproportionate 2 #agchat
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kjh_786:
Q7 there are many markets to sell into if the grower choses to do so, same with purchase=ing of inputs, but many refuse to change
#agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q7 Seriously folks? No monopolies or consolidation? Have choices? Where shud the Ky cow/calfer's go2sell? #agchat
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ThinkingSoy:
The market is more global than ever. Will continue to go that way. RT @: Q7 all farmers compete in the world market together #agchat
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4leafclovercow:
ok you all have to go to my dairy to check if it didn't burn down any further then it did this morning. Thanks for the great convo! #agchat
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JeffFowle:
Q7 Argument could be made that beef industry is controlled by the big 4, caused by public, IMHO. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @kjh_786 Q7 there are many markets to sell into if grower choses to do so, same w/purchaseing of inputs but many refuse to change #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
@sollmana Customers buy from monopolies because they have no other choice #agchat That's the def of monopoly - nothing else avail to buy
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PoppyDavis:
@timyohnka Many farmers & consumers r fighting for right2keep their $ & energy local&choice 2 not eat or compete in a global mrkt #agchat Q7
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kmrivard:
RT @JeffFowle: Q7 Argument could be made that beef industry is controlled by the big 4, caused by public, IMHO. #agchat
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kjh_786:
q7 different areas may have more or less opportunies, but most opportunies are self made too #agchat
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Dafforn:
RT @nycUlla: Farmers should be proud of how they farm. #labels should have meaning. Folks need to learn about production methods. #agchat
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EddieMill:
Wow! Literally closelined coming back from gardening to my favorite farm community, #agchat I think I'm going to have a black eye.
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CariRincker:
Q7: In all seriousness, as our #ag corporations grow in size, I worry about the small producers. Partnerships is the key. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @sollmana: customers make monopolies 2. Microsoft, ag, etc. If $ spent disproportionately, control is disproportionate 2 #agchat
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EddieMill:
re Q7: globally yes. Many farmers in Mexico can never compete with subsidized grain from the North. #agchat
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JeffFowle:
Q7 Society actions create monopoly, then society complains about monopoly. Time to think before acting. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @CariRincker: Q7: In all seriousness, as #ag corp grow in size, I worry about the small producers. Partnerships is the key. #agchat
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NYFarmer:
#agchat Q7 Spoke w/ ag econ prof today in CT who felt fewer companies in Northeast setting the prices 4 milk to farmers
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sollmana:
@jsamuelson56 True, but there's nothing else to buy b/c they put all money in one basket, did they not? It's an endless circle. #agchat
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EddieMill:
RT @agchat: Q7 Is there a monopoly over one portion of agriculture, such as claims made Food, Inc.? #agchat
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AWAapproved:
Q7 Many consumers want to know how the food they eat was produced. Independent 3rd party certification helps those who want to know. #agchat
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NYFarmer:
#agchat Q7 Testimony at #dairy hearings that huge supermarket chains have power to push even largest companies and coops back on milk price
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ksfarmgrown:
Q7 EU farmers still have way more than twice the subsidies of U.S. farmers, & we have to compete. Not always easy. #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
@n_web In my area corn does the best planted directly into wheat stubble, unless it's an irrigated field. #agchat
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agchat:
Q9 via @MountainFarmer How to build bigger tent for all ag, when organic promo seems to cut down/promote myths of conventional ag? #agchat
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nuts4ag:
can we feed everyone we need to with local grown and farmers markets? I think not
#agchat
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MHG_Dairy:
Got to cruise but I enjoyed the topics. God bless and stay safe. #agchat
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agchat:
Q9 now up, but suspect the whale is about to fail. Anyone else having issues? #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q9 We need all of ag telling the truth, not Food Inc. type agenda-driven hype. There's room for all. #agchat
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sollmana:
Q9: Very hard b/c marketing depends on being somehow "better" than conventional ag. #agchat
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kmrivard:
Q9 This is a VITAL question. There's a lot of cutting-at-the-knees that goes on, a lot of snipishness. #agchat
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TruffleMedia:
Can monopoly be a government because of subsidies? re P RT @EddieMill farmers Mexico never compete w/subsidized grain from North. #agchat Q7
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agchat:
RT @ksfarmgrown: Q9 We need all of ag telling the truth, not Food Inc. type agenda-driven hype. Theres room for all. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @kjh_786: Q9 organic is a choice that some consumers make, it takes all ag to supply the worlds food needs #agchat
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MarksKiosk:
Q9 Tent is already pretty big. We all eat several times a day. Ag would be better off to promote choices versus slamming diffrncs. #agchat
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alrayner302:
Q7 #agchat RT @ksfarmgrown: Q7 EU farmers still have way more than twice the subsidies of U.S. farmers. Australian farmers don't get any!
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q9 IMO ag doesn't work together as well as it could - much disagreement, labels etc #agchat
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ThomsonVnyrds:
Q7 believe orgs like #agchat help sm producers remain in game as consumers get educated about vnyrd 2 glass&more apt 2 seek out sm wineries
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geneticmaize:
#agchat Q9 Best is farmers telling their own stories. Consumers don't believe agribusiness, checkoffs.
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kmrivard:
Q9 I think it should rely more on personal choice rather than scare tactics. Organic growers aren't the ONLY folks who do it, though #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Absolutely true. RT @nuts4ag: can we feed everyone we need to with local grown and farmers markets? I think not #agchat
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JeffFowle:
@EddieMill And when is the last time you have met w/ farmers from MX & their ambassdor on trade? 4 me it was 4 mos ago. #agchat
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timyohnka:
@PoppyDavis All farmers sell in the world market,there may be local price reflection,every 30days there is a crop of wheat harvested #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
Q9 - we build bigger tent by embracing the idea that all forms of ag can exist together. That applies to all sides, not just organic #agchat
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cornwuff:
Q9 No idea. Organic marketing is mainly based around avoiding all the 'toxins' from conv. ag. Pretty derogatory. #agchat
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CariRincker:
Q9: Great question. We have different kinds of #ag for different kinds of consumers. #Food industry demands variety. #agchat
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sollmana:
Q9: Would like to see continued partnerships btwn org/conv on common ground issues, so marketing based on choices--not comparisons. #agchat
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agchat:
OK, this is lovely. Your moderator can't tweet - Tweetdeck was clotheslined with @eddiemill apparently. #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
@EddieMill Cover crops are being explored and experimented with by no till farmers. The cost/ benifit equation is a challenge. #agchat
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cownutritionist:
@NYFarmer So sell to someone other than the big chains... if it's the only person willing to buy, you're stuck. That's capitalism! #agchat
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KyFarmersMatter:
Q9 This is where I get irritated. No 1 is saying we can feed all w/local food. So who's doing the cutting down? Seems 2b 2way st 2me #agchat
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WillRogersToday:
Q9. No ag group, organic or otherwise, should put down other ag group to sell a product. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q9 ag is so diverse it's hard to work together too; know nothing about cotton or sugar beets, doesn't mean know nothing #agchat
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agchat:
RT @KyFarmersMatter: Q9 This is where I get irritated. No 1 is saying we can feed all w/local food. So whos doing the cutting down? #agchat
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siobhancoyle:
whats this all about?? why cant i see the questions u r referring to in the #agchat
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agchat:
RT @nuts4ag: Ag doesnt work together. Now there is an under statement. Biggest issue out there IMHO #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
Q6 I read 3 different diffinitions of sustainable last winter. Totally mind boggling. #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q9- so we agree that we need to be all inclusive in the tent... HOW do we bridge the gaps? Possibility for Executable ideas here #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q9 I've learned a lot tonight by talking with the farmers. There's still a world that needs saving, though? #bigag #agchat
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timyohnka:
Q9: Organic and "conventional" farmers need to work together and not "bash" eachother #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
Q9 - I think we have to remember conventional isn't perfect as well. This is about coming together, not making others come to us #agchat
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ThinkingSoy:
Q9 All ag wants to produce more, more efficiently. Good goal no matter what your production POV. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @CropLifeFdn: Q9 We have to remember conventional isnt perfect. This is about coming together, not making others come to us #agchat
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nuts4ag:
Most ag doesn't have a direct connection with it's consumer like many other business. Hard to connection with consumers that way #agchat
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ThomsonVnyrds:
Q9 traditional farmers must source experts 2 rally w/them about low impact farming rather than payup 4 currently unreg organic certs #agchat
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ksfarmboy:
W6 Knowiing that the diffinition to sustainable will always change. I always say that I use a more sustainable method. #agchat
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MarieB41:
Q9 I'm guilty of not encouraging all ag because i don't believe in "organic" however i know its farming 2 and here to stay... #agchat
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showandtellfarm:
farmers need to do "positive" marketing; like those ones the politicians are SUPPOSED to do. #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q9- All produce food/ resources. Lots of common ground... yet still bicker over our differences #agchat
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nuts4ag:
How do we stop talking to each other and reach out to consumers and adjust to what they want? #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
Q1&9 Tho less than 2% of US pop now live on farms, & for most part, producing commodity, farmers are about as diverse as they get. #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q9 The only tent I need for my food is in the new farmer's market. #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Do U care if the rest of the world eats? RT @EddieMill: Q9 The only tent I need for my food is in the new farmers market. #agchat
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cowartandmore:
Q9 I think we all need to stick to the facts. Leave opinions and emotions out of it. #agchat
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MarieB41:
Q9 Us aggies need to stick together cause we're a small voice and need to be supportive of all #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
Good 1, but my tent needs to span the globe. RT @EddieMill: Q9 The only tent I need for my food is in the new farmer's market. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q9 was told 10 chickens and a handful of rabbits was "big ag" if not condemning large farms, even though small #agchat
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kellymoltzen:
@kjh_786 yes, that's true. I believe they have good intentions, though. I heard Roger Beachy speak at a conference recently #agchat
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agchat:
Q10 (via cownutritionist) Efficient animals = lower carbon footprints, per research. Is greater production always more sustainable? #agchat
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cornwuff:
I like 'big ag'. It let's me buy 'big tractors'. *slight humor, folks* #agchat
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agchat:
Q10 is now up, and time is short, so let's jump over to Q10. You all are doing a marvelous job!!! #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Here, here!!! RT @: Q9 Us aggies need to stick together cause we're a small voice and need to be supportive of all #agchat
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alrayner302:
#agchat thanks for the conversations..glad to see you're all dealing with similar questions to us in Australia
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cowartandmore:
Q10 More production is sustainable only if there is a well-organized system in place to support it. #agchat
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nuts4ag:
Greater production is NOT always sustainable. Produce too much, price goes down. Out of business #agchat
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kjh_786:
@kellymoltzen Roger has a big job ahead of him ewith very little resources, we nned to keep asking USDA and congress for more $ #agchat
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JeffFowle:
@EddieMill On another evening I would be happy to discuss the MX trade issue w/ you. From UR tweets U R bit mis-informed. IMHO #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
RT @agchat: Q10 Efficient animals = lower carbon footprints, per research. Is greater production always more sustainable? #agchat
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ajt518:
Amen!! RT @MarieB41 Q9 Us aggies need to stick together cause we're a small voice and need to be supportive of all #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @nuts4ag: Greater production is NOT always sustainable. Produce too much, price goes down. Out of business #agchat
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geneticmaize:
#agchat Q10 Sometimes increased production comes at cost, like pulling too many nutrients from soil.
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BrettBarham:
Q10 - I think the answer is "optimal" production is the answer. Greater production is not always financially rewarding. #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
ROFL. Kind of like "she thinks my tractor is sexy?" RT @cornwuff: I like 'big ag'. It let's me buy 'big tractors'. *slight humor* #agchat
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nel1jack:
all ag is 'conventional'. depending on which definition of 'conventional' you use Q9 #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q10 I think it depends on production; if "minority breeds" volume is a killer to do it right (thinking fiber sheep/goats) #agchat
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sollmana:
Q10: Think it depends on if you can keep that productivity up. If it trickles off over time, then no. #agchat
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kjh_786:
Q10, more efficient production HAS reduced the carbon footprint per unit of production = more envorinmentally sustainable #agchat
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agchat:
RT @BrettBarham: Q10 - I think the answer is "optimal" production is answer. Greater production is not always financially rewarding. #agchat
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agchat:
RT @kjh_786: Q10, more efficient production HAS reduced carbon footprint per unit of production = more environmentally sustainable #agchat
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kellymoltzen:
Vandana Shiva is coming to NYC tomorrow night to speak; I believe she has a lot to say about how organics could feed the world #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q10- More production can be sustainable if resources are adequate & demand for product is strong #agchat
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sollmana:
@nuts4ag Q10: Very interesting point re: overproduction. Interesting how countries w/quota system 4 milk deal with that. #agchat
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MarieB41:
Q10 Can't it be sustainable economically? i.e. milk prices #agchat
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animalag:
RT @CropLifeFdn: Q9 We have to remember conventional isnt perfect. This is about coming together, not making others come to us #agchat
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cownutritionist:
RT @: Q10 I think it depends on production; if "minority breeds" volume is a killer to do it right (thinking fiber sheep/goats) #agchat
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agchat:
Couple more minutes to get your thoughts in on Q10, then we'll have our final question and 5 minutes of pitch time. GREAT WORK! #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q10 I like the small farms- They are crucial if we are really going to have adequate food security really. ~Efficient, &sustainable #agchat
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BrettBarham:
Q10 - In beef cattle I think we have always struggled with the end point target, which had made "optimal" production difficult. #agchat
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animalag:
RT @ksfarmgrown: Q6 Sustainable is so misused. Same family, same water, same food, 4,5,6 generations, sounds pretty sustainable. #agchat
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EddieMill:
@kjh_786: Q10 but hugely increased our dependence on oil. carbon footprint per unit of production = more environmentally sustainable #agchat
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kmrivard:
@EddieMill So my boyfriend's family's relatively-little grain farm is a valuable part of food security? Good to know! #agchat
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emotivatemktg:
If anyone has links 2 FACTS about sustainability of big ag, please post them. What about nutritional content of big vs. small/local? #agchat
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kmrivard:
RT @ksfarmgrown: Q6 Sustainable is so misused. Same family, same water, same food, 4,5,6 generations, sounds pretty sustainable. #agchat
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SlowMoneyFarm:
Q10 seems like real appreciation is found w/ hands on in both lg & small farms etc;2much criticizing w/o seeing in person IMO #agchat
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sollmana:
@ajt518 I will say I don't really know details of system. Just think it's interesting idea to control price by controlling quantity. #agchat
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WillRogersToday:
Q10. US has a well organized system for ag. Brazil does not, but is working to develop and expand it. #agchat
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kjh_786:
@EddieMill has it increased our dependencey? ag has the ability to produce it's own energy to replace foreign oil #agchat
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carrieoliver:
@agchat Q10 If focus on buzzwords eg sustainability, we'll never answer that ?. Making things grow faster/denser not always answer. #agchat
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emotivatemktg:
Seems to be real focus on sustainability and profitability - understandable but what about end result in terms of product quality??? #agchat
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ajt518:
@sollmana no I agree, but have to be careful that system does not stop young/new farmers from entry!! :) #agchat
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kjh_786:
@EddieMill energy use per unit of production on my farm has decreased with increased yileds and efficiencies, + I use biodiesel #agchat
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cownutritionist:
Q11- Continue to try to bridge the gap between ag sectors... to bring us under the same "tent" #agchat
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timyohnka:
@EddieMill I dont know who this Pollan fella is but whats the difference between a small and lrge farm? They all care the same #agchat
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kmrivard:
@emotivatemktg Here, we have the highest quality food for the cheapest price. We have security. We also have the right to complain. #agchat
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ajt518:
@sollmana unfortunately true, but if it were perfect, we'd have overproduction problems all the time I guess... #agchat
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nuts4ag:
@EatingNiagara Folks need to learn about production methods? do you know how your shoes are made. Really? Not going to happen. #agchat
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PoppyDavis:
@timyohnka true 4commodities not4 branded products -thats why frmrs/regions work 2 brand themselves:Shepherd's Grain, Wine from Napa #agchat
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ksfarmgrown:
Q10 Gotta go, final word. Conventional ag must help feed the world. Local is wonderful where it works. Room 4 both, stop fighting! #agchat
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sollmana:
@ajt518 Very true. When I was in Luxembourg it was interesting when they explained. Quota didn't deter kids in family I stayed with #agchat
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sollmana:
@ajt518 Also good point. Interesting how countries develop systems that work for them (until they don't work anymore and change). #agchat
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nuts4ag:
Q11 Join Social Media groups NOT connected with ag and talk to people #agchat
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jsamuelson56:
Q11 To #labels tweet - Need 2 do a better job of making label meaningful- meaning a better job telling story of ALL of farming. #agchat
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ajt518:
Excellent! RT @nuts4ag Q11 Join Social Media groups NOT connected with ag and talk to people #agchat
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mpaynknoper:
Q11 in all serious, my life & work mission intertwine to bring these types of convos to life so people understand #ag & we listen. #agchat
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sollmana:
Q11: Work to develop relationships across ag based on common ground. Creates respect so we can agree to disagree w/o tearing apart. #agchat
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weedgirl24:
Thanks for the convo everyone. Have a good week! Hope those who need rain get it and those who don't stay dry for a few days. Night! #agchat
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ajt518:
Q11 reach out to others in Ag and ask questions- what, why, and how they do things... May learn something to help own business!! #agchat
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EddieMill:
Q11 Continue working on companion planting, organic matter, cover crops to find out what sustainability is in my 200ft2 #agchat
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kjh_786:
time for me to bug out of here, great convos, time to get ready for my trip to Denver for USB #agchat
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ajt518:
Q11 talk to people in the grocery store... Especially if you hear them asking questions to store employees! #agchat
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EatingNiagara:
@nuts4ag well, my dad was a shoemaker, so yes. Besides, I think it can be done in a compelling way that can interest people. #agchat
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sollmana:
Thanks for the great convo everyone! Laptop battery's dying and I need some sleep! Good night all :) #agchat
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kmrivard:
Thanks for playing along, guys. Appreciate the professionalism & respect that takes place. It's been a pleasure, as usual. #agchat
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BrettBarham:
RT @rimrockes: They are there on meat at least.... cant speak for all products. Q11 anyone seen any COOL labels... I haven't. #agchat
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waynekblack:
Sorry I didn't keep up with #agchat tonite. Catching up on a days worth of email & tweets. Lots of discussion tonite!
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carrieoliver:
@agchat Q11 Executable idea: recognize meat = like wine, even apples. I evaluate meat flavor/texture by farm to help U sell directly #agchat
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kst8er76:
Really enjoyed #agchat tonight! I haven't gotten to participate for a while! Missed you guys ;)
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waynekblack:
VERY true! RT @kmrivard Q9 This is a VITAL question. There's a lot of cutting-at-the-knees that goes on, a lot of snipishness. #agchat
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CropLifeFdn:
Been a month or so since my last #agchat, sometimes forget how much I enjoy it! Thanks all!
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NYFEA:
If you have any 4th of July Farm Photos, we'd love to feature them on our blog! Send to nyfea.agspromise@gmail.com #agchat
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JesiIrene:
I have now joined #agchat on facebook, thanks everyone I look forward to next week.
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BeckyMcCray:
Sorry I missed the closing of #agchat - look forward to catching the next chat!
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ksfarmboy:
Browsing back through #agchat seeing everything I missed in the waning minutes.
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mpaynknoper:
@dovefarm Glad you enjoyed #agchat from the UK. It's designed to promote professional convo, welcome your ideas to ensure it's not closed.
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kmrivard: @JohnDeereTara Look, he tweeted at you! Isn't @TimYohnka clever? I'm so excited!!! #agchat
CropLifeAmerica: I just read the AP #agchat article earlier today. Very intriguing! Excited to my first #agchat tonight!
EddieMill: Eddie Miller here, or @EddieMill just getting back from Detroit's #USSF, and man is it a good time to be experimenting with crops. #agchat
weedgirl24: Karen, agronomist based in IL. Lots of yellow corn and drowned out spots. Happy to be here! #agchat
AnnaGiannini: Hey y'all Anna-Lisa in California. Home on the ranch for the summer, co-founder @beefonabudget. Senior at okstate! #agchat
cownutritionist: Robin from Wisconsin here. I'm a cow nutritionist. I advocate for farmer choice & food choice #agchat
ksfarmgrown: ksfarmgrown here. Finally made it back to #agchat Kansas farm kid, still w/family farm, working for farmers and ranchers. #agchat #agchat
TheCoreBlog: Howdy all, Dan'l here from Texas. I market fresh produce for growers/shippers/packers. #agchat
AWAapproved: Beth from http://www.AnimalWelfareApproved.org. We audit & certify family farms using pasture & range based production systems. #agchat
p_staatz: RT @mpaynknoper: OK, moderator is finally about ready. Phew. And, no, this is not a cake walk, just in case you wondered. :) #agchat
dbudlov: RT @AWAapproved: Beth from http://www.AnimalWelfareApproved.org. We audit & certify family farms using pasture & range based production systems. #agchat
KyFarmersMatter: Amy frm hot & humid Ky, Cattle, Horse, & Hay farmer~Also operate a USDA slaughter/processing plant #agchat
BeckyMcCray: Hey! It's time for #agchat
cowartandmore: Whoa, Kathy Swift, large animal veterinarian, wine drinker, mom, ag lover, jewelry artist, and country girl signing in for #agchat
CariRincker: Grabbing some grub and then heading to #agchat
4leafclovercow: Hi! #agchat Large dairy farmer from Indiana who was VERY lucky today....!
TruffleMedia: John Blue #agchat jumping in a bit late from Indianapolis. Yes, please keep using those Q# :)
JeffACSH: RT @agchat: Agreed! RT @BeckyMcCray: Conventional is an odd term to apply to a constantly evolving field. #agchat
dairygoddess: Hi all, it's me Barbara, a progressive dairyfarmer from Central CA. Can only stay for a bit...still got work to do! #agchat
clairecelsi: Q1 I see "conventional" used synonymously with "commercial" farming #agchat
jsamuelson56: Check in from the Northeast. FC ee and jersey gal and I'm not talking about New Jersey. #agchat Looking forward to tonight's chat!
dairygoddess: @dairydino and myself said that we are not calling ourselves "conventionional" when we are clearly progressive. #agchat
kitchenMage: Q1 "Conventional" means (to me) the way things are generally done. For ag, that means HUGE corp stuff, NOT organic/natural. #agchat
CropLifeFdn: Alex with CropLife Foundation here in DC joining! Little late but here! #agchat
geneticmaize: #agchat hi, ISU grad student in crop genetics here :)
PoppyDavis: Hi, Poppy Davis checking in from Watsonville California but can't stay long. I'm the ED of @Eco-Farm #agchat
MarketRaleigh: supports @AWAapproved Farms and so should you #agchat
alrayner302: #agchat Q3 I guess here in Aus, many croppers are playing with no till methods as traditional cultivation does effect our soils
drewbender: Drew Bender from Ohio just getting in. What question are we on?? #agchat
zebrafinch: RT @agchat: Q3 via @EddieMill Do farmers feel like conventional practices degrade their own soil? #agchat
KristaMRose: Q3 was taught organic/conventional not rltd to sustainability; organic can degrade as much as conventional. sustainability seperate #agchat
joleep: RT @ksfarmgrown: RT @CropLifeFdn: Q3 -- Biggest misconception, and one I HATE, people who think conventional farmers dont care bout soil & land #agchat
GrowingFree: RT @CarrieOliver: @agchat Founder Artisan Beef Institute. Q3 My suspicion is that few farmers would knowingly mistreat their soil. #agchat
ksfarmboy: RT @KyFarmersMatter: Q1 I associate the term of conventional w/commodity or production agriculture regardless of farming method #agchat
RowekampFarms: Q4 sometimes life style or lack of it is the downfall of smaller farms #agchat
andyarthur: Q4 I think most of loss of farms has to do with cheap oil, energy, much cheaper then labor. Bigger machines, bigger farms. #agchat
Sandy_Greiner: Lurking on #agchat
beachroses: RT @4leafclovercow Q4 i think we need both! small and big should be able to live next to each other and love what they do. #agchat
WillRogersToday: Hi. Randall Reeder, Ext. Ag. Engineer, Ohio State U. I work with no-till, cover crops and other cons. tillage systems #agchat
MountainFarmer: Matt from Utah checking in for the 1st time. #Agchat.
ssteever: RT @jsamuelson56: Q6 - Sustainability to me means addressing all sorts of business risk. Environmental is just one of many. #agchat
MarksKiosk: Q6 RT @jsamuelson56: Q6 - Sustainability to me means addressing all sorts of business risk. Environmental is just one of many. #agchat
lisajohnson: Both Michael Pollan & Food Inc. inspired our blog, http://bit.ly/an9lFn (expand) a/b eating well & loving the planet #agchat thanks @EddieMill
Limerickman: RT @nycUlla: Farmers should be proud of how they farm. #labels should have meaning. Folks need to learn about production methods. #agchat
ThinkingSoy: RT @cornwuff: Q7 My customers are very independant, and have a lot of choices for suppliers and partners available to them. #agchat #agchat
kellymoltzen: Q7: I think a big part of the problem is ppl don't know what their choices are. Sites like this can help http://tinyurl.com/lnbn5v (expand) #agchat
FRESHOUTOFNYC: RT @nyculla: @ksfarmboy @NYFarmer we need to look no further then Vermont! They got it together! New York????? #agchat
showandtellfarm: RT @JeffFowle: Q7 Society actions create monopoly, then society complains about monopoly. Time to think before acting. #agchat
bwisegardens: RT @KyFarmersMatter: Q6 Sustainability 2me is that my farm&neighbors farm can still farm & respect the land & environment #agchat
ThomsonVnyrds: Q7 believe orgs like #agchat help sm producers remain in game as consumers get educated about vnyrd 2 glass&more apt 2 seek out sm wineries
SteakPerfection: Q8? Hi -- very late but glad to be here. Joe from SoCal, a student of great steak. Where did Q8 go? @agchat #agchat
lisajohnson: @ImTheQ trying to follow #agchat & #fitblog, giving myself a headache but it's intereseting stuff!
siobhancoyle: whats this all about?? why cant i see the questions u r referring to in the #agchat
emotivatemktg: At what cost??? RT @ThinkingSoy: Q9 All ag wants 2 produce more, more efficiently. Good goal no matter what your prod'n POV. #agchat #agchat
BuyColorado: Heritage Acres a hog coop in S Missouri seems to be making it work. #agchat
BrettBarham: Q10 - I think the answer is "optimal" production is the answer. Greater production is not always financially rewarding. #agchat
animalag: RT @CropLifeFdn: Q9 We have to remember conventional isnt perfect. This is about coming together, not making others come to us #agchat
rimrockes: @BrettBarham Q10 what defines optimal varies within our country too, yes? #agchat
EatingNiagara: RT @nycUlla: Farmers should be proud of how they farm. #labels should have meaning. Folks need to learn about production methods. #agchat
waynekblack: This is it - RT @agchat Lack of life balance! RT @RowekampFarms: Q4 sometimes life style or lack of it is downfall of smaller farms #agchat
samvance: I was the Tweet Of The Day on Countdown with @KeithOlbermann NOW will someone hire me? At least read my blog... dang #agchat #foodchat
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