 Industrial hemp is combined on a Darlingford, Manitoba farm. Hemp is now legal, according to North Dakota state law, and several farmers have applied to grow it despite federal government restrictions.
North Star Farms represents a new generation of agriculture in North Dakota. In addition to growing certified organic produce, this small farm is designed to help protect the environment well into the 21st century.
Renewable Fuels
E-85 and E-10 ethanol and biodiesel are used in vehicles and machinery in an effort to do our part to reduce dependence on foreign oil and to improve the environment.
Computers
Computers are used in every aspect of the operation and in one situation we are working with an agency to develop software specific for small, organic farms. Machinery maintenance, crop-rotation software, paying bills, logging harvest records and market receipts are all examples of our computer usage.
Future Projects
Plans are under way for an efficient, drip irrigation system in which the pumps will be operated by solar power and controlled by computerized timers. An environmentally friendly greenhouse that will be warmed by wind and geothermal energy is now a step closer to financial reality since North Star Farms was named March 3 as a finalist in the statewide entrepreneur contest called Innovate ND.
Conservation
Numerous species of trees, shrubs and flowers have been planted since North Star Farms first began in July 2004. This year we will be planting Colorado Blue Spruce. Not only does that create a beautiful landscape and enhance the environment, it also invites wildlife to the neighborhood. Recycling and composting are practiced daily.
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21st Century Farm 
