Affects of Chemical Pesticides

By Joseph Stutzman

The biggest problem with chemical pesticides is their ability to linger in the water, air, and ground. This leads to pesticide transfer, causing collateral damage by the contamination it causes. The effects on soil are astounding. In 1940, farmers started using chemical pesticides in a widespread manner. That is the year trace minerals in vegetables and fruits started falling due to the depleted nutritional value of the soil. The mineral value of produce has fallen by a drastic 76%. Is the reduction in the food quality worth the use of chemicals?

As bad as it appears here in the US, third world countries are even worse. They are producing foods for export which contain residue of more than one chemical pesticide. These are the chemicals designed to kill insects, yet are slowly entering our bodies when we eat these foods.

This has caused a surge in organic farms. Organic farms do not allow chemicals of any type onto their soil and produce. Being chemical-free has allowed these farms to increase the nutritional value of the soil, producing healthy fruits and vegetables.

The use of pesticides has also been linked to different diseases. Diseases like cancer, nervous system diseases, and reproduction issues have all been linked to chemicals. Other research has determined that disorders like Parkinson's, asthma, leukemia, and lymphoma have been attributed to people who have been exposed to pesticides.

The Pesticides Literature Review, based on studies conducted by a multi-university research team in Toronto concludes that "people should reduce their exposure to pesticides because of links to serious illnesses." Isn't it time to make the move to a chemical-free lawn and garden?

So where does one start once they decide to go organic. The first thing to look at is the packaging on the products you are purchasing. Unless it states organic on its packaging, it is not. The USDA has a lot of good information on how to become an organic program. Another good source for listing organic products is the Organic Materials Review Institute. Both organizations can be accessed online.

Joseph believes in organic methods and implements them in his gardens. He uses all-natural diatomaceous earth for all of his pesticide needs.

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