Organic Versus Conventional - Can't Everyone Just Get Along?

The term ‘organic’ likely evokes some kind of strong emotion. For consumers, it’s a positive reaction, but it’s not for many conventional farmers. For Michigan farmer Joel Layman, it was a tough row to hoe when switching his farm, employees and family to organic from conventional production.

Marketers always tout the impact of food labels. But that’s because consumers say they matter, whereas flavor, convenience and costs are far more important factors in what they buy. Whenever the s-word appears in some scientific journal article, get ready to view the conclusions with skepticism.

Farmers are evaluating this year’s weather extremes and what they could mean for food production in the future.

The world’s largest chemical producer, BASF, is starting its second year of transformation following a massive industry-wide reorganization and consolidation. They stress the company’s dedication to the future as it seeks to integrate newly added tools to its portfolio.

From learning how to win with humility to learning how to lose with grace, 4-H will take people as far as his or her creativity, effort, and imagination will allow. Here are five lessons members will learn through 4-H that are rarely talked about.