As a certified organic operation, Ignatius Farm limits the use of off-farm inputs and focuses on management practices that restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony.

Healthy soil, as a living system from which all life originates, is essential to organic farming. Ignatius Farm believes there is an identifiable link between the health of the soil, the plants it supports, the animals who graze upon it, and ultimately, the health of humans who consume the food it produces. Thus the restoration, maintenance and enhancement of soil life is the cornerstone of our farm program.

Often characterized by what can't be used (such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides), organic farming is more dependent on active improvements, such as crop rotation and green manure crops. Labour intensive practices that improve the biological activity of the soil and the growing environment.

Green manure crops such as clover or buckwheat are cultivated into the soil to provide organic matter and nutrients for following crops. To achieve a superior growing media, Ignatius Farm also adds soil amendments such as rock phosphate, molasses, fish emulsion and wood–chips.

Environmental protection is a key reason for Ignatius Farm affirming an organic growing program. Our concern for the ecological challenges of the 21st century is manifest in the many aspects of our farm:

• Avoiding the use of agricultural toxins–pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, chemical fertilizers.
• Protection of the Marden South Wetland Complex and watershed.
• Care in the handling of all animal wastes.
• Protection and fostering of wildlife including wild bird populations.
• Researching new ways to recycle agricultural nutrients thus creating a “closed-loop“ system.
• Using naturally occurring constituents such as Kumulus and BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) as part of an Integrated Pest Management program.

Not only does organic farming benefit the environment, it also produces nutritionally superior food! In a recent study by the Organic Consumers Association, research confirmed that food grown organically produces nutritionally superior food. Adopting measures for antioxidants, precursors to vitamins A, C & E, and minerals potassium and phosphorus, key findings in the OAC study revealed higher levels of nutrients in organic foods.

As a reliable supplier of organic apples and apple products, Ignatius Farm was delighted with the results of a 2001 study by researchers at Washington State University. The study concluded that organic apples were sweeter, possessed better texture and firmness than those grown conventionally — differences attributed to the greater soil quality resulting from organic farming techniques.