Farm Waste
We “are drowning in Our Waste”, reads the head line of a thought provoking article in the London Free Press, Aug. 8/01
This article deals with the problem of farm waste (cow and pig manure), produced in certain areas in Ontario by intensive livestock farming. As this article points out, these large projects are the properties of producers of pork and beef (meat products), as well as dairy products to supply our domestic and global markets.
This concerned writer, Lenora Perry, presents her case very convincingly but seems less sure of what can be done to alleviate this crisis.
In my view, from my Back Forty, I suggest that this presents a two-part solution. The first part depends on the democratic will of our citizens. As is being suggested, “A moratorium on intensive livestock farming”, legislated by our Ontario government, with due compensation to the farmers concerned, should go into effect immediately. In the meantime, through the unbiased media, if we have such, the consuming, eating public could be apprised of the merits of vegetarianism to replace our present mixed diet of meat and vegetables.
The second part of my solution is to enlist our science and technology, of which we have the best in the world, to devise and develop ways to safely and efficiently dispose of, or use the waste from these farming operations. What comes to my mind, regardless of the cost in loonies, is a specialized sewage system, located at each of these meat-producing operations.
I realize, using today’s economic methods, this would be a huge financial burden on us taxpayers as well as on each industry concerned. This would also increase the cost to the meat-eater of pork and beef, which he thinks is necessary, not to mention the cow’s milk and milk products for our growing families. So what now?
This brings up another question. We have the scientific knowledge, the technical skills as well as plenty of able-bodied Individuals available to do the work of installing the above-mentioned equipment. That which remains to be thought about, is a substitute for money to “pay” the workers for food, clothing, shelter, transportation, etc.
The answer to this question exists in several of my previous “Views”. See Views 10, 11,12,15,17. This is where you the readers of my Web Page, as well as tax-payers, have an opportunity to show your concern, not only for the health and welfare of you and your neighbours but our environment as well.
Now my Neighbours, I guess it is time to eat more veggies. Pass the salad bowl please!
Timothy Haystubble (Grass Roots Philosopher)