Otto Kramm (left) started his farming career as a conventional grower, troubled by the chemicals he had to use. Now he grows organic produce for Earthbound on farms in San Benito County, CA and down in the desert during the winter. He also serves as Earthbound's Chief Farm Production Officer! Todd Kodet (right) is a certified entomologist with over 30 years’ field and farming experience. They both help us fulfill our mission to bring the benefits of organic food to as many people as possible.
Ask Our Experts
Q:
What’s the key to successful organic farming?
A:
Every organic farmer depends on his or her thorough knowledge of ecology and soil science. Working with the biological system is a real art — and sometimes it can feel like Nature isn’t interested in cooperating! But for me, that’s the game right there: I’m fascinated by the way things work together. How creating rich, healthy soil supports stronger plants. How stronger plants result in better crop yields. How better crop yields help demonstrate that organic really is viable on a large scale. And that’s healthier for the planet and all of us on it. –Todd
Q:
Why did you choose to farm organically?
A:
I started my career working with biological controls for farming, but then spent many years in conventional agriculture. I’ve always believed that farming should be less about using the powerful chemicals at my disposal than finding the right balance between what Nature needed and what I wanted. I just knew that if I didn’t mess things up, the fields and the crops could work in balance with each other, and I wouldn’t have to do much more. That’s why, to me, coming to organic farming felt like coming home. Organic farming is much more environmentally sustainable than conventional farming, and there are so many benefits to expanding the reach of organic practices. –Todd
