To the editor:

On our organic vegetable farm, we work hard every day to produce healthy food for the community.  It is called "farming." 

We feel the existing definition of farming as outlined in the local and state laws (including the "Right-to-Farm law") describes very well what we do: we practice agriculture and horticulture for the purpose of selling food products, and we engage in secondary activities such as educational and farm-based recreational activities which are related to marketing the agricultural output of the farm.

There is no need to re-define agriculture as agri-entertainment or agri-tourism or additional undefined "commercial activities."  A farm is not a colorful backdrop for tourism, or a marketing tool.  It is an essential contributor to the health of the community.

As farmers, we need to keep our focus on the goal of producing the best food we can for our community, and on educating the public to the point where they will pay a fair price for our products.  If we get distracted trying to become tour guides, concert promoters or shop keepers in order to swell the bottom line, farming will soon fall by the wayside. We will vote no on Article 38.

Edward  Howe

Howe Family Farm

Westport