By Cody Deluisio

Embracing a Return to Natural Agriculture

As the sun peeks over the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania, casting golden hues across the dewy pastures, I find myself immersed in the harmonious rhythms of farm life. The gentle clucking of chickens, the lowing of cattle, and the rustle of leaves in the morning breeze compose a symphony that resonates deeply within me. This land isn’t just where I work—it’s where I’ve found a profound sense of purpose and connection.

Questioning the Conventional Food System

For years, I’ve harbored a growing unease about our industrialized food system. The prevalence of processed foods, the environmental toll of large-scale farming, and the ethical concerns surrounding animal welfare all led me to question the mainstream narratives about agriculture. It became clear that a change was not just desirable but necessary—for the health of our planet and ourselves.

The Journey to Self-Sufficiency

Motivated by this realization, I embarked on a journey toward self-sufficiency and natural agriculture. Starting with a small flock of chickens, I began to explore sustainable farming practices that honor the natural behaviors and well-being of the animals. Raising pasture-raised poultry allowed me to see firsthand the benefits of letting animals live as nature intended, resulting in healthier livestock and more nutritious food.

Innovating on the Farm

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the opportunity to innovate and problem-solve. Recognizing the need for high-quality, customized feed for my animals, I took on the challenge of building my own pellet mill. Crafting this equipment not only provided control over the feed’s ingredients but also reinforced the principles of self-reliance and ingenuity that are central to sustainable farming.

Venturing into Hemp Cultivation

Expanding the farm’s diversity, I ventured into hemp cultivation as a licensed grower. Hemp, a versatile and environmentally friendly crop, offers numerous benefits—from soil regeneration to providing raw materials for a variety of products. Cultivating hemp aligns with my commitment to environmental stewardship and showcases the potential of alternative crops in promoting a more sustainable agricultural system.

Challenging the Status Quo

Choosing to farm naturally is, in many ways, a stand against the prevailing “Big Food” industry. It’s a declaration of independence from systems that prioritize profit over health, ethics, and environmental responsibility. By rejecting synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms, and by focusing on regenerative practices, we can foster a healthier relationship with the land.

The Philosophy Behind the Practice

At the heart of this endeavor is a philosophy that values personal freedom, critical thinking, and a deep connection to nature. It’s about questioning the accepted norms and being willing to forge a path that aligns with one’s values, even when it diverges from the mainstream. Farming, for me, is as much a spiritual journey as it is a physical one—cultivating not just the land but also a more mindful and intentional way of living.

The Rewards of Connection

There’s an unparalleled satisfaction that comes from nurturing the land and witnessing its capacity to sustain life. Each season brings new lessons and reminders of the delicate balance inherent in natural ecosystems. This connection extends beyond the farm itself; sharing experiences and knowledge with a community of like-minded individuals has been both inspiring and affirming.

Encouraging a Shift Toward Sustainability

I believe that embracing sustainable practices isn’t just for those who choose to farm—it’s a perspective that can benefit anyone seeking a more authentic and responsible way of life. By making conscious choices about the food we consume and supporting local, ethical producers, we contribute to a larger movement that prioritizes health, community, and the environment.

An Invitation to Reflect and Engage

I share these reflections not to prescribe a one-size-fits-all solution but to invite others to consider the possibilities that arise when we step back and reassess our relationship with the world around us. Whether it’s starting a small garden, supporting local farmers’ markets, or simply becoming more informed about where our food comes from, each action contributes to a collective shift toward sustainability.

Looking Ahead

The journey is ongoing, filled with both challenges and profound rewards. As I continue to learn and adapt, I’m encouraged by the growing interest in natural agriculture and the increasing number of people seeking alternatives to conventional systems. Together, we can cultivate not just crops but a future that honors the interconnectedness of all life.

About the Author:

Cody Deluisio is a sustainable farmer based in Western Pennsylvania. With a passion for natural agriculture and a commitment to challenging conventional food systems, Cody focuses on ethical livestock raising, innovative farming practices, and hemp cultivation. Through his work and writing, he aims to inspire others to explore sustainable living and embrace a deeper connection with nature.

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