Here are student summaries of fall 2024 MCJD dialogical surveys with Willamette Valley farmers and ranchers. Click on any title for details, then return to see all titles.
Blueberries to Clover Seed: That Diversity of Commodity is to be Expected from an Oregon Farmer!
Event: Willamette Valley AgricultureInterviewer: Noah
Whom did you interview?
Ron is a blueberry, hazelnut, grass seed, clover seed, and firewood farmer. He is a member of the Young Farmers and Ranchers group within OFB (Oregon Farm Bureau). He graduated from Idaho University with a bachelor’s in Agricultural systems and management. Together, him and his father collectively farm ~1000 acres here in Oregon.
How did your EcoTypes and SDG priorities compare?Our EcoTypes Themes of both Place and Action were both to the Left (-), meaning we resonated with Nonhuman Place, as well as Small Green Steps. For the two Knowledge Axes – Ron and I were again the same. For both Science/Technology and Spirituality/Time we were on the side of (I)ntegral. This means that we prioritize the importance of knowledge that’s existed for many millennia; however, we recognize the importance that technology will play in the future of solving environmental problems. Our SDG priorities were not as closely aligned as our EcoTypes. Ron’s priorities were #6,12,14 and 15, while I only shared #12.
What larger MCJD lessons did you learn?Starting off, I learned that while farming is an integral part of human survival, as humans must eat – it’s important to recognize that there’s a balance. This means that we cannot over-farm our land, as this would risk biodiversity loss and the collapse of many small-scale ecosystems. Ron brought up balance quite often, emphasizing how for example he must use certain pesticides but only the absolute necessary amount. Pesticides are a tool, one to be respected and used consciously – as misuse could lead to damage of soil and surrounding nature.