Several years ago, I read the Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan.  I was inspired by the middle third of the book that highlighted the workings of Polyface Farm and its founder Joe Salatin.  Polyface Farm is, in my opinion, an ideal model for how we can return to consuming local, healthy, nutrient-dense foods all while having a positive effect on soil fertility and reducing our carbon footprint.

Folks, This Ain’t Normal gives a historical perspective on farms and how we ended up where we are today. More importantly, it offers solutions to make positive changes both on an individual level and as a society to get humanity back on a sustainable path.  Salatin covers a wide variety of topics including soil fertility, raising animals in appropriate conditions, waste management, water conservation, fuel consumption, and regulations that make it near impossible for farmers to get healthy food from their farm to your table.

Each chapter ends with some practical tips/suggestions that can be implemented to start making immediate changes.  There are also many resources contained within the text on a variety of topics.

I read this book cover-to-cover and I would highly recommend reading it!

To read an article in Time Magazine about Joel Salatin and Polyface Farm click here.