Every Day is Earth Day at Alsum Farms

By: Christine Lindner, Alsum Farms & Produce Marketing Manger

As we celebrate Earth Day, we reflect on the remarkable journey of environmental consciousness and forward-thinking agriculturists that has shaped our relationship with the planet. From the humble beginnings of Earth Day to the innovative practices of today’s farmers, there’s much to appreciate and learn from the interconnectedness of humanity and nature.

History of Earth Day

Earth Day, born on April 22, 1970, emerged as a response to growing concerns about environmental degradation and pollution. Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson had long been concerned about the deteriorating environment in the United States. It catalyzed a global movement, igniting passion and activism for environmental protection. Since then, Earth Day has served as a reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard the planet for future generations.

Farmer Stewardship – Original Environmental Stewards

Farmers, like Alsum Farms, have long been stewards of the land, understanding the delicate balance between cultivation and conservation. Through sustainable practices, we ensure the health of the soil, water, and ecosystems vital for agricultural productivity.

In 1992 we began farming and by 1996 Alsum Farms helped establish the Wisconsin Healthy Grown® Program. As a founding member of the Healthy Grown® Program, Alsum Farms utilizes the Healthy Grown Program’s regenerative agriculture approach to farming that works to strengthen ecosystems and community resilience. At Alsum Farms we are stewards of the land and a certified Wisconsin Healthy Grown® potato farm adopting more sustainable farming methods. Our commitment to responsible land management is crucial in mitigating environmental impact and preserving biodiversity.

Sustainable Farming Practices

Wisconsin farmers are also implementing sustainable measures in the field. Alsum Farms is continually working to improve soil conservation and planting techniques. We do this by planting and harvesting equipment with GPS technology which helps optimize planting efficiency and fuel consumption. Alsum Farms also utilize eco-friendly integrated pest management (IPM) techniques that conserve inputs, preserve water quality, restore native ecosystems, and protect wildlife. On-farm sustainability is a way of life to nurture the soil and pass it on to future generations to toil the soil to feed a growing population.

Soil Health and Cover Crops

Healthy soil is the foundation of agriculture and ecosystem health. Farmers recognize the importance of nurturing soil fertility and structure through practices like cover cropping. Cover crops not only protect soil from erosion and nutrient loss but also enhance biodiversity and carbon sequestration, contributing to climate resilience.

Agriculture Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions

America’s farmers are leading the way in greenhouse gas emission reduction through voluntary conservation efforts and market-based incentives. The Environmental Protection Agency released the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2022. The report shows American agriculture slashed emissions by almost 2% from 2021 to 2022, the largest decrease of any economic sector.

On-Farm Pollinator Habitats

Pollinators play a vital role in food production and ecosystem stability. Recognizing their significance, farmers are creating on-farm pollinator habitats to provide shelter, food, and nesting sites for bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. These efforts not only support biodiversity but also promote crop pollination and yield. Alsum Farms has nearly 50 acres dedicated to prairie restoration and pollinator habitat to cultivate a sustainably grown food supply. We are improving and continuously expanding our pollinator and prairie habitats on our farmland.

Reducing Food Waste

It takes hard work to produce the food and fuel for our communities. Food waste is a significant environmental and social issue. Through innovative initiatives and practices, such as reducing surplus production, improving storage and distribution, and composting waste, farmers and consumers alike can work together to minimize food waste and its environmental impact.

We believe every person deserves good nutrition. That’s why Alsum Farms & Produce has donated more than 6 million pounds and counting of potatoes to Second Harvest Foodbank since 2000 along with other regional food pantries. Alsum is dedicated to providing nutritious potatoes to Americans to help reduce food waste and eliminate hunger.

You can become more sustainably conscious at home by being mindful of water usage and reducing food waste. Buying, preparing, and eating the right amounts of food is a great way to become more sustainable. When food is wasted, the natural resources that went into creating it are also wasted. Do your part to help raise awareness by sharing the sustainable practices and techniques that farmers are using.

We Can All Do Our Part

As we celebrate Earth Day, Alsum Farms commitment of two generations strong built on farming roots dedicated to caring for the fertile soils to grow a naturally good-for-you plant-based food — potatoes. Learn more about Alsum Farms sustainability and stewardship work.

Together, let us commit to being responsible stewards of Earth, today and every day.