Every Farmer Should have a Microscope

This appeared in the September 2, 2021 edition of The Fish Wrap.

The 20th century was the century of synthetics in medicine and agriculture. Great advancements in pharmaceuticals led to a reliance by many on daily, synthetic medicines just to function. Advancements in genetic engineering and farming practices led to a reliance on synthetic fertilizers and ‘-icides’ to support our food supply system and keep farming profitable. But the 21st century will be the century of biology, where we return to a partnership with the power and wisdom of nature. 

Doctors are starting to talk about the importance of the human microbiome and ways that food can be used as medicine. Regenerative farmers focus on strengthening and supporting the soil microbiome as their key principle. We understand some about the bacteria and fungi that live in the soil but we are just beginning to learn about their complex interactions with the rest of the soil food web and their importance in building nutrient dense food. 

A quick qualitative look through the microscope on the farm can be just as beneficial as a quantitative analysis performed in a lab.  Samples degrade during shipping, are analyzed by humans with varying moods, are costly and take time to get results.  That’s why every farmer needs a microscope. You can pull samples as often as you like and assess in real-time how your practices affect the microbiome.

Farmer’s intuition combined with real-time information you’re getting from soil samples allows you to work closely with the soil microbiome. You can learn to make your own compost teas and extracts from the natural ingredients, make sure they’re getting from the tank to the soil, and see the effects they have on the health of your soil. Let’s move away from a reliance on chemicals and anonymous ‘experts.’ Let’s return to our natural place in communion with nature.