Insects

What struck me most about our visit to David Kline’s farm was his appreciation of insects. So many farmers are quick to insect loathing because of pest damages and loss of crop yield. In our lifetimes I hope to see insects and biocontrol agents become more prevalent, especially in organic farming. It was refreshing, both in conversation with David Kline and in reading Great Possessions, to see a farmer appreciate not only the many services insects can provide as pollinators and natural enemies of pests, but also appreciate the diversity and unique survival strategies of this diverse group. He outlines some of these in the chapter The World of Insects and wraps up with the quote “Maybe we should take more time to study this fascinating part of God’s Creation instead of swatting and spraying everything that crosses our path.” As an entomologist, it’s hard to disagree.

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