Farmer D is an entirely new brand of farmer. With a thumb more “green” than any of his predecessors. He lives to make a difference in the world. He farms because of a passion for the earth and the biodynamic methodologies that can save it. Farmer D’s vision is simple yet profound; to apply organic management practices to landholdings of all types which in turn will save money, conserve water and fuel, reduce waste and chemical use, promote sustainability, and create a healthier planet for all. You’ll get no attitude from Farmer D. And no animosity. Developers, after all, are Daron’s squash and potatoes. And they are many – developers of residential communities, resorts, spas, corporate campuses, college campuses, therapeutic retreat centers, golf courses, country clubs. These are the many entities Farmer D approaches not with condemnation, but explanation – about just how the implementation of green technology and best management practices for building and land management can simultaneously diminish the negative environmental impact of development and improve the bottom line for the developer. To learn more about Farmer D go to www.FarmerD.com.

Plywood People:  Can you tell us a bit about what you’re doing in your community and how you got your start?

Daron Joffe: Through my business, Farmer D Organics, my staff and I provide individuals, schools, hospitals and communities with the knowledge, products and services to help them become more sustainable and healthy by growing organic and biodynamic food producing farms and gardens. We do this because we believe that growing food brings people together, improves their health and the health of the environment.

I started this work over 15 years ago in Madison, WI and remain passionate and dedicated to getting more people involved in organic and biodynamic agriculture, even if it is just a small garden on the patio, so we can foster healthier more sustainable communities.

Plywood People:  Of all the good work you’re doing, what is your favorite thing you are pursuing right now?

Farmer D: That is a tough question as I truly enjoy all aspects of my work from designing farms, growing food for people and teaching others how to grow food organically. I love the work we do with children most as they can reap the benefits for many years to come when they learn where there food comes from and get excited about growing and eating fresh vegetables.  Ultimately, I believe teaching the children will have the greatest impact of all I do.

Plywood People:  Why do you choose organic?

Farmer D: Because I believe it is a much better way to grow food than using chemicals that harm the soil, water and people who consume them. I also believe the quality and taste of organic food is far superior to food grown with chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. Our responsibility to be good stewards of the land means we should improve the quality of soil, water and air for generations to come and organic farming is the baseline of how we do this.

Plywood People:  When most people think farming, they don’t usually think urban.  Why have you chosen to integrate the two?

Farmer D: The vast majority of people are living in urban environments. In order to reduce the food mile, the distance food travels from the field to the plate, we need to grow more food in and around cities. People in the city are looking for a way to connect more to nature and gardening is a perfect way for them to do this while contributing in a positive way to many environmental problems. There are so many areas where grass is grown using chemical fertilizers and herbicides, while requiring large volumes of water and fossil fuel for mowing and blowing. These areas could easily be dedicated for food production and therefore make our cities greener, more productive and less dependent on trucking in everything we eat.

Plywood People: How have you seen your work build the community around you?

Farmer D: Yes, we are part of a growing community of foodies who are coming together around a common goal of living more healthy, sustainable lives. Many of the farms and gardens I have been involved in starting have fostered community building, education and improved health for people of all ages. The garden is a healing place that brings people together around something very wholesome. We want to see more gardens come to fruition in homes, schools and communities all over the country to help people connect more with the land, their bodies and each other.