by Donn Hewes
updated
Thu, Nov 29, 2012 12:40 PM
GMC's rights to sustainably control livestock
Dear Editor,
DAPNet - Draft Animal Powered Network is an organization that
promotes the use of working animals, primarily horses, mules and
oxen, to create more sustainable farming, forestry, and
communities. As such, we applaud the efforts of the Green Mountain
College to publicly discuss the end of life decisions for working
oxen that have lived and worked on their farm.
This is an opportunity for many to learn about the reality of
raising and caring for livestock. It also allows the community to
discuss the role of livestock in a healthy ecosystem; how healthy
milk, eggs and vegetables are supported by livestock on the farm.
These discussions can and should include how and when an animal is
utilized for food.
In order for these discussions to take place, Green Mountain
College needs to feel secure that their community supports their
rights and control of their own livestock. When outside groups such
as VINE (Vegan is the Next Evolution) and PETA (People for the
Ethical Treatment of Animals) bring boycotts and threats, mass
emails and picket lines to this discussion; they do us all a
disservice. They have attempted to end a discussion and silence
those that must care for these animals and are ultimately
responsible for them. They have disrupted a civil discourse
that many in the Green Mountain community and beyond would have
benefited from.
Green Mountain College, DAPNet, and thousands of small farms all
across this country take great responsibility for the ethical
treatment of animals. We will continue to reach out to each other
to strengthen our communities, build networks, and share what we
learn.
Donn Hewes, Farmer and Vice President of DAPNet
