I've learned that the term "family farm" can be technically used to describe some CAFO operations and so "family farm" is losing its meaning for me. I'm leaning instead towards desiring "human-scale farms." To me that implies appropriate technology that doesn't turn either humans or animals into cogs. It implies a scale of personal interaction that fosters craftsmanship. It implies a deeply held personal stake in the farm, for both ones livelihood and reputation. It implies living stewardship, not by a bureaucratic system but by observation, care and constant learning. It seems some sort of dance wherein the people define the farm, the farm defines the people, and both are better for it.
amy fenn
2/13/16