Q. Why is being certified organic important to you and your business?
For us growing organically was the only way conceivable. From the moment we began talking about starting a farm it was a given it would be organic. We had been trying to eat mostly organic food for a while and we believed it was healthier for us, but more importantly, healthier for our ecosystem as a whole. As we delved deeper and started to learn about growing and selling vegetables we embraced organic methods and realized how important being certified was for the farms that we were learning from, and how the clientele demanded it. At this point the strong majority of our customers demand and expect certified organic at our stall, and many of them would quit shopping with us if we stopped being certified. But not only does certification substantiate and define organic practices, it joins organic farmers together in solidarity and gives us power.
Q. What are the most important principles or philosophies that guide your company?
We try to be respectful and honest with our crew and our clients, and farm in a way that is in harmony with our ecosystem. We sell locally and are connected to these communities and honour the physical place where we grow and live. And finally, we balance our hard work with fun and adventure in nature.
Q. What specific questions did you have when learning about organic certification?
For us it was what is permitted and effective for amending soil deficiencies, and where to source these amendments.
Q. If someone you know is thinking of certifying organic, what advice would you give?
Get certified from the very beginning if possible, don’t put it off, it will only get more difficult. Use systems that fulfill organic standards and give you information to better manage your business.
Q. Why did you choose PACS as your certifying body?
We chose PACS because of word of mouth; our neighbours and mentors used PACS so we just went with that recommendation… but since then we’ve come to realize PACS is well respected by the consumer as well.