Biodynamic and regenerative farming go hand-in-hand. In Canada, there is a certifying body called Demeter Canada that provides Demeter Certification of biodynamic farms. Here is a great video to introduce you to Biodynamic and Demeter Certified agriculture.
Biodynamic agriculture focuses on enhancing the life processes of nature.
According to Demeter Canada:
Each BD farm develops its own identity based on the relationships between the animals that provide fertility for the soil, the fields that provide food for animals and people, the plant life, the meadows, the orchards, the forests and the wetlands giving space for birds, insects and other wildlife. These interrelations support a healthy farm capable of producing quality, health-giving products.
Farm balance and health are further encouraged by the use of biodynamic compost preparations and field sprays. These special preparations are made on the farm from common medicinal herbs and animal sheaths. They help the soil and plants to relate to the form-giving forces behind nature.
A variety of regenerative farming techniques are used, including crop rotation, composting, interplanting, careful treatment of livestock to ensure both longevity and quality, and seed saving. In addition, influences from the moon and other planets are taken into account. In essence, the farmer becomes the conductor of an orchestra, working with nature, recognizing weaknesses in the farm and working to strengthen the whole farm organism.
The human aspect of biodynamic farming must not be forgotten. It gives farmers the chance to work with nature, not against. The CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) movement grew out of biodynamic farming, with people recognizing the need to support the farm and its farmers, while receiving quality food in return. Many BD farms also receive regular visits from school children, as well as from adults looking for a chance to reconnect with nature.
Biodynamic agriculture seeks to actively work with the health-giving forces of nature. By enlivening the soil, food can once again properly nourish people. Biodynamic practitioners work to balance the life-forces and heal the earth, without the use of chemicals. They use knowledge of nature, our powers of observation and a variety of sustainable techniques.
What is Demeter Certification?
Demeter is the brand for products from Biodynamic Agriculture. Only strictly controlled and contractually bound partners are permitted to use the Brand. A comprehensive verification process insures strict compliance with the International Demeter Production and Processing Standards, as well as applicable organic regulations in the various countries; without a gap, through every step, from agricultural production to processing and final product packaging. The holistic Demeter requirements exceed government mandated regulations. Not only do they exclude the use of synthetic fertilisers and chemical plant protection agents in agricultural crop production, or artificial additives during processing, but also require very specific measures to strengthen the life processes in soil and foodstuffs. Demeter farmers and processors actively contribute toward the shaping of a future worth living for, creating healthy foods of distinctive tastes, truly “Foods with Character”. Demeter – the Brand you can trust in.
Looking to Support Biodynamic Agriculture?
Click here to see all the Biodynamic Certified farmers in your area. And feel free to ask a question in the comments below.