Jenna Burse

CUIN 3313

Dr. Bulent Dogan

March 4, 2019

How Organic farming changed the Agricultural Industry

Begin by showing video of farm land

Voiceover

Within the past century, many farmers began switching from conventional farming to

organic farming. This lead to a widespread misconception about organic farming techniques, as

many consumers began to question why the prices of organic produce are much higher than

conventionally grown produce.

Voiceover

Flash photos of: USDA Logo, Organics Seal, and 4 Types of Organics Seals

The United States Department of Agriculture is in charge of regulating organic and Genetically

Modified Organisms, aka GMO’s. They have very strict procedures that farmers must follow in

order to place the USDA organic seal on their products.

Voiceover

Video clips of: Land being cleared, seeds being planted, and crops being harvested

Before farmers can began planting organic produce, they are not allowed plant any crops

on the intended land for five years, in order to let the land rest. After 5 years, the soil qualifies

for organic production. Farmers must use certified organic seeds and are not allowed to use

pesticides in organic farming. Pesticides and herbicides are chemicals that kill pests that can

potentially overrun crops. By not being allowed to use pesticides, farmers must resort to using
natural methods to prevent potential pests. Ladybugs, mulch, and crop rotation are some of the

most popular natural methods to prevent pests. One of the last major reasons that the price of

organic produce is higher than conventional produce is the yield per acre. Organic farms produce

a much smaller crop than conventional farming practices. All of these things together cause the

price of organic produce to skyrocket.

Voiceover

On screen show phrase: “Is it worth it?” with grocery store in background

Now you might be asking yourself: “Is it worth it to buy organic, locally grown

produce?” and the answer is YES! Organic produce has many benefits.

Voiceover

Show chart/table with findings

There have been numerous studies showing that organic produce tends to have 20-40% more

antioxidants than conventionally grown produce. It is also fresher, since organic produce doesn’t

contain preservatives.

Voiceover

Show video of runoff into streams

Lastly, it is better for the environment. Organic farmers do not have to worry about their farms

runoff containing chemicals that can end up in rivers, harming fish populations.