Re: Speaking of "Toxic Palouse"

Dave.....I hesitate to respond as writing does not accurately allow
for the best dialogue.  I was raised on farms and also was married to
a farmer for nearly 17 years.  I have no connections with agriculture
now with a life change made some years ago.   Thus I am informed and
objective in my comments

Agriculture is not perfect nor is the world, however, farmers here on
the Palouse are very careful about the applications of pesticides and
fertilizers.  They are expensive chemicals that can be harmful to the
crops, community and the cash flow of the operations if misused or
overused.  Aerial application is an added expense usually used only
when the ground is to wet for ground application or when ground
application will destroy more mature crops.

Erosion is a concern with ground application at some times during the
year.  On the Palouse the applications are usually made about three
times a year depending on the crop planted (winter or spring). 
Fertilizers may be used in the fall and spring.  Pesticides are used
in the spring on aphid, pea weavil and such.

Aerial application is usually made in early morning or evening.  Wind
is a key factor.  Drift away from the crop cost the farmer.  Also at
that time, most people are inside their homes. 

Crops here are harvested, processed and return indirectly to a
family's table.  In Mexico many of the crops may go directly to the
table of those families.  Education is important in washing and
cleaning crops that have come in contact with chemicals.  Some foods
should not be harvested and eaten for several days or weeks after
spraying.

I do not want to minimize the impact of chemicals on the enviroment or
on individuals that come in contact with them.  But the American
public does have a level of expection in the quality and price of
their foods.  The American farmer also feeds the world, but developing
countries are working to become more self sufficent.

My final point is that farmers on the Palouse are agricultural
professionals with families living next to their fields.  They have
made extensive financial and emotional investments in their farmland
and equipment.  Their risks are not just limited to the amount of
rainfall and the market price.......if they can sell them without fear
of embargos and foreign policy wimes.

I know there has been misuse in areas.  The article and area you are
talking about sounds like an excellent example of that type of
behavior.  I hope that you have a little better understanding of the
agricultural process.  I know there are many with greater expertise on
this subject than myself but I felt I could be of help in informing
you about the people and families you make out to be the "enemy". 

Judi Thompson


Judi Thompson

Fairco MiniMart
Quality Conoco Gasolines
Laser Touchless Carwash
Idaho State Fish and Game Vendor
Locally owned and operated

208-883-3253
FaircoMiniMart@turbonet.com