Organic and regenerative farming overlap, but the labels tell us different things. Certified organic follows defined, verified production standards. Regenerative farming generally emphasizes improving soil and ecosystem health, although the requirements depend on the certification or the farmer’s own approach. I also wonder how we can recognize the care a farmer puts into both the food they grow and the people they serve. Neither label alone tells us how food tastes or how nutrient-dense it is. Personally, I put nutrient density and taste ahead of appearance and shelf life. When choosing food, what matters most to you? After the poll, think about what you would want the farmer to explain or demonstrate.

National Organic Standards Board Meeting Starts This Week The National Organic Standards Board meets twice each year in a public forum to discuss and vote on recommendations to the USDA. These recommendations help the Department meet the needs of the organic industry. Board Meeting Details Online Comment Webinars (2 days): Oct. 20 & 22, 2026, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Eastern Time Public Meeting (3 days): Oct. 27 - 29, 2026 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Eastern Time Location: Virtual Information on how to access the live meeting webcast is available on the Fall 2026 Meeting webpage. Contact: NOSB@usda.gov

I have a no till bed that's not working as well as I would like, so as my worm bin is a little overcrowded, I'm moving a wheelbarrow full of worm compost and worms to the lack luster bed, to give it a boost.

When an annual crop finishes its life cycle, its roots eventually die and begin decomposing in the soil. Perennials behave differently. Their root systems can remain alive between growing seasons, even when their leaves and stems die back. But not every perennial root survives. Fine roots continually grow, age, and die, while longer-lived roots may persist for years. The important distinction is that a perennial plant can survive from year to year without keeping every root it produced. Next time you observe a dormant perennial, remember that what has disappeared above ground does not necessarily tell you what remains alive below. Have you noticed a perennial returning each spring after completely disappearing above ground? Which observation best demonstrates that a plant can persist between growing seasons even when its above-ground growth disappears?

My wife often asks me to do things, and sometimes I'll say ," no, l can't do it today because I have to do something else, to which she replies," you can always do whatever you want ". That says a lot about freedom.(Think about it).