Apprentices, Radiation Research, & BDA Property Update

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Biodynamics & GMOs

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On Biodynamics and Radiation

By Robert Karp

view from BDA office The recent tragic events in Japan and news of increasing radiation fallout around the globe have led to a growing interest in past reports from Europe (primarily) of a possible role of the biodynamic preparations in protecting farms and food from radioactivity. Understandably, this is quite a "hot" topic in biodynamic circles, evoking much debate.

I am thrilled to report that recently two members of the Biodynamic Research Working Group (BDRWG), Maria Linder and Barry Lia, have agreed to procure and evaluate all the available research and reports relating to this question and to draft a synopsis that we will make available through our journal and website. The BDRWG will also take up the question, in its next meeting, of whether a new research project in this direction is warranted and if so, how it would be best undertaken. These are small but important steps. Read more....

Biodynamic Education Survey

Did you run into problems submitting your education survey? Our sincere apologies if so! We have fixed the survey, and we hope you will try again, as we will greatly value hearing your thoughts and experience.

A big thank you to those who have already responded! If you have not, and you are a biodynamic educator, consultant or mentor, please learn more about our Education Program and find a link to the survey here.

Apprenticeship Program Growing!

We are pleased to report that the North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program (NABDAP) now has 19 apprentices enrolled, nearly quadrupling the number enrolled just this January! NABDAP Coordinator Thea Maria Carlson reports that there is steady enthusiasm for the program among its participants, who appreciate the structure and direction NABDAP gives to their training as farmers. Thea continues to receive more inquiries from aspiring biodynamic farmers interested in the program every week. Look out for profiles of some of NABDAP's current apprentices, coming soon to the NABDAP page on our website.

Interested in combining structured on-farm training and mentoring with a course of classroom study in biodynamics? NABDAP is a program of the Biodynamic Association for beginning farmers. As William, a NABDAP apprentice, puts it, the program provides "an amazing opportunity to learn both the practical skills and paradigms related to biodynamic agriculture. The more I recognize how little I know, the more excited I get for how much I am going to be able to learn." Learn more here.

Change and Growth on the BDA Property

By Rebecca Briggs

It's hard to believe that, a little less than four months ago, farmers Jonah Bloch and Amber Lippert were just signing a lease with the Biodynamic Association. Back in early April, there were no neat rows of potatoes, squashes, and tomatoes; there were no lilies blooming in the flower bed; there were no chickens scratching the ground below the fir tree; there were no farm workers riding the bike back and forth from field to house.