Philosophy and Methods

YOU ARE ORGANIC, RIGHT?

In truth, our farm is not certified organic. That means our fields are not inspected by any state or private agency. Also, we do not use certified organic feed for our chickens or other animals. We do give great care and thought to our practices and inputs so as to continually improve the soils and larger ecosystems of our farm. Furthermore, we consider you, the customer, to be our inspector and we encourage you to come and see for yourself where and how your food is grown.

Below is a brief explanation of three terms which we have chosen to help identify the values of Birdsong Community Farm and our partnering growers.

NATURAL

Watching and mimicking nature, we make use of its lessons in water conservation through bio-mulch; fertilization through composting; pest control through diversity, companion planting and natural predators.

We avoid the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, antibiotics and artificial

hormones because we believe that their effects may reach beyond the plants and
animals to our own tables.

We strive to steward our farm - the grass, trees, streams, flowers, wildlife, vegetables, fruits and livestock - with compassion, respect and care. We believe this is our call and duty as sons and daughters of the Creator and as followers of Jesus.

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability means that the land is becoming healthier and stronger under our care.

We do not seek to take more from the land than it is able to give without suffering.
In fact, we seek to see it improved through soil building efforts such as composting,

the incorporation of biomass and "green manures," habitat creation and thoughtful cultivation.

We employ methods such as crop rotation, high density/short duration foraging and buffer zones to allow the land necessary rest and rejuvenation.

We strive to use efficiently all of the resources available to us

and to promote synergy of biological systems.

Sustainability also means that the community which supports this farm is in turn supported by it. We rely on the volunteers, patrons and friends who give to and
receive from Birdsong Farm.

LOCAL

Our aim is to serve the immediate community by providing quality food as well as opportunities for dialogue and education.

We sell directly to customers who come to the farm and also at local farmers' market

in Cullman.

Buying locally ensures you the freshest possible food, often picked the same day as purchased. It keeps money within the local community, helping to preserve our rural agricultural heritage. Purchasing from local farms allows for closer accountability and quality control over our food systems.

                           And it benefits the environment in several important ways, not the least of which is
                           by reducing fossil fuels consumption and other transportation costs.

Natural. Sustainable. Local.

YOU ARE ORGANIC, RIGHT?