Missouri Organic Farming

Getting Back to Basics – 5 States Where It’s Possible

Do you ever dream about swapping your high stress urban lifestyle for one that’s more down to earth and simple?  Is a “natural childhood” something you want for your children? Are you ready to “go green” 100%? If you think that a back to basics approach is impossible, think again. There are several states where it’s entirely feasible, and don’t worry, you won’t have to swap your lattes and laptop for a tractor and a pair of overalls to experience it!

Arkansas-”The Natural State” is just that, and each area of Arkansas has its own claim to fame. From the world famous city of Hot Springs to the stunning Ozarks, fertile River Valley, and the Timberland region to the south, Arkansas is full of options for those seeking a more simplistic way of life. The year round recreational opportunities are unbeatable, and visitors come from all over to explore the state’s mountains, lakes, rivers, caves and crystal mines. Little Rock and Fort Smith are compact metro areas, boasting all the high tech amenities and shopping venues one could ever need. If you want to try your hand at something new, Arkansas can accommodate. Ranked #17 in 2010 by Forbes for its positive “Economic Climate Potential”, there are limitless paths to choose. The state boasts a significant number of certified organic farms, along with fish farms, livestock operations, flower farms, and vineyards. As a part of the University of Arkansas’ Division of Agriculture, the Cooperative Extension Service serves as a support and research base for the entire state. With so much going for it, no wonder that Arkansas has also been called, “The Land of Opportunity”.

New Mexico-The names, “Carlsbad, Rio Grande”, and “Santa Fe” often conjure up images of bygone days of the frontier west. Although those days are over, New Mexico is still where one can hike along a remote canyon path or visit a Native American pueblo. From Albuquerque to Santa Fe, New Mexico is a natural wonderland. Nicknamed, “The Land of Enchantment”, its rugged beauty is breathtaking. High desert plains, sweeping mountain vistas, and river basins are also home to an impressive number of plant and animal species. As the 6th most sparsely populated state in the US, New Mexico makes “getting away from it all” possible. Perhaps you’d like to try your hand at aqua culture, cattle ranching, organic farming or maybe raising a few Cashmere goats? The combination of affordable housing and state economic incentives for job creation make New Mexico an intriguing choice for those who want to make a connection with the natural environment.

Kentucky-When you’re ready to uncomplicate your life and get “back to the basics”, grab your banjo and check out the “Bluegrass State”. With miles of open, rolling countryside, family farms, and horse pastures surrounded by quaint stonewalls and wooden fences, it’s easy to fall for Kentucky’s charm. Anyone hoping to create a more natural lifestyle will have an easy time of it here. Choosing exactly where to settle down will be the tricky part. From the bald cypress swamps of the Jackson Purchase to the lush forests of the Cumberland Plateau, and the rolling hills in between, Kentucky is full of scenic wonders. In the last few decades, several KY cities have been designated by Money magazine and CNN as some of the “Best Places to Live in the US”. A diverse economy, affordable housing, low crime, and educational improvements contribute to KY’s appeal. Mammoth Cave National Park and the Red River Gorge are popular destinations for rock climbing and hiking. Boaters and fisherman will also be impressed with KY’s 90,000 miles of waterways and streams. If wildlife is your passion, KY is an excellent place to get involved. Several wildlife reintroduction projects have been quite successful and set the standard for native animal preservation.

Oregon-Take a short drive from any of Oregon’s major cities and before too long, you’ll be surrounded by a rustic paradise. Whether you travel along the Pacific coast, in the shadow of Mt. Hood, through the Willamette Valley, or around the evergreen forests near Crater Lake, you’ll certainly notice the breathtaking scenery. Although Oregon is headquarters to many high tech industries and even home to the “Silicon Forest”, it’s an idyllic spot for pursuing a natural lifestyle. Its fertile farmland has made it an agricultural giant and mecca for forward thinking future farmers and vintners. The state has over 300 wineries, 95% of the nation’s hazelnuts are grown here, along with apples, pears, blueberries, cherries, and cranberries. No wonder the mail order fruit company, Harry and David is based in Oregon! Salmon fishing, wheat production and the timber industry are also mainstays. What makes Oregon a great choice for anyone seeking an escape from a techno-based society is the large number of residents practicing organic farming, permaculture, and alternative energy methods.

Missouri-It’s no coincidence that one of American literature’s best novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, was inspired by Mark Twain’s boyhood home of Hannibal, MO. Many of us still dream about those lazy summer days and back to basics pastimes such as skipping stones (and school!), fishing, and rafting. Even though MO’s major cities of St. Louis and Kansas City, are now major metropolitan areas, anyone seeking a slower pace and connection to the natural world can still find it here. From the Ozarks to the banks of the Mississippi, close knit communities and towns dot the landscape. Organic farms, cattle ranches, and dairy farms are spread throughout the state. New farming methods such as biodynamic, hydroponics, aqua culture and permaculture are supported and encouraged by the state’s network of agricultural extension offices and 4-H programs. Missouri is also an up and coming area for vineyard cultivation and winery operations. If the rolling countryside, peace and quiet are too much for you, remember that the bright lights and action of Branson or Kansas City are always within reach!

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