Organically Grown

State Journal, The, February, 2008 by Bonnstetter, Cathy

More consumers today are turning to organic products, a trend that benefits farmers, consumers and the environment. In fact, the demand has left an interesting niche for small farmers, such as those scattered throughout the state.

"Five years ago, the United States was an exporter of organic food. Today, we import eight times more than we export," said West Virginia University Associate Professor of Plant and Soil Science Jim Kotcon.

Kotcon said some organically grown foods are richer in antioxidants and other healthy components than conventionally grown foods, but the issue is complex. The most compelling reasons people farm and buy organic stem from their environmental consciences.

"Organic growing is reducing chemical inputs that every farmer knows are...

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