Source: GENETIC LITERACY PROJECT, 5/21/18



This is part one of a four-part series attempting to separate fact from fiction regarding pesticide use on organic farms. In this installment, we look at the common claim that organic farms actually use more pesticides and more dangerous pesticides through the lens of a few simple observations and talking to actual organic farmers. In part two, we look at the factoids that have been taken out of context and twisted into a dishonest narrative. In part three, we look at the special cases of pest control in organic orchards and vineyards. Finally, in part four, we take a critical look at a widely circulated article purportedly busting myths about organic farming that managed to create a few myths.

As opinions about farming have become increasingly politicized and polarized, a really unfortunate trope has taken hold. In pushing back against the fear mongering about pesticide safety driven by organic marketers and the widespread consumer belief that organic farming means zero pesticides, some advocates for conventional agriculture have begun counter-mongering – claiming that, in fact, organic farms use MORE pesticides and the pesticides are MORE DANGEROUS than conventional pesticide use.

For more of this story, click here.