Managing an Ecosystem

Spraying broad-spectrum nerve toxins isn't what I think of as organic agriculture. But when I wanted to buy a virus that attacks coddling moths, the seller suggested that what I really wanted was Entrust, an "organic" insecticide. He was wrong, I don't want to treat my land with a chemical toxic to a broad array of insects - beneficial and pest alike - regardless of whether the origin of the chemical is natural or synthetic. While a species-specific parasite exploits a niche and its use can help to check an out-of-balance proliferation of one pest, a broad-spectrum insecticide creates greater imbalance in an ecosystem. The intent of Entrust isn't to carefully manage an ecosystem, it's to make things easier for the grower. And to make a profit for the chemical company, of course.

Our trouble as a society comes from trying to make a buck so we can buy something so the next guy can make a buck and buy something, and so on, especially when the things we buy are supposed to make things easier for us - to make less work. There's nothing wrong with work. Our quality of life depends on it. Think about it: are you happier sitting for hours in front of the tv, or when you have a meaningful task you can take on? Being an artisan is about knowledge and work. I believe proper animal husbandry requires the care of an artisan.