Organic products are grown without toxic pesticides and herbicides. Yet these chemicals are commonplace in conventional farming. Agricultural chemicals have contaminated the groundwater in 38 states and led to the erosion of 3 billion tons of topsoil annually. Organic farming improves soil and protects water quality. Because organic farmers don't use chemicals on their crops, they must use natural methods such as rotating crops and applying compost in order to increase their yields, improve the soil and manage pests.
Organic farmers work in harmony with nature.
Organic agriculture respects the balance necessary for a healthy ecosystem. Wildlife is encouraged by including forage crops in rotation and by retaining natural areas. Organic meats and dairy products are produced without antibiotics and hormones. Many conventional dairy and meat products test positive for residues of antibiotics and growth hormones that were fed to the animals. These substances can pose a health risk to the people eating those products.