21st Century Farm
hemp.jpgIndustrial 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 to reduce paper consumption. Machinery maintenance, crop-rotation software, paying bills, logging harvest records and market receipts are all examples of our electronic usage that dramatically reduces the amount of paper consumed.

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 passive solar energy is currently being built and should be ready in April 2010. 

Conservation
Numerous species of trees, shrubs and flowers have been planted since North Star Farms first began in July 2004. 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.