Wendell Berry's Legacy Inspires Christian Farmers to Go Green

The passing of Wendell Berry, a prolific Kentucky farmer, writer, and activist, has left a profound impact on Christian farmers who have been transitioning to sustainable or regenerative methods. Berry's connection to his Christian faith and environmentalism validated the sense of morality of these farmers, who felt ostracized by family and peers for their shift towards environmentally friendly practices. Many farmers in the rural U. S. South and Midwest, who had used conventional, industrial practices for decades, began to adopt sustainable methods such as reducing petrochemical use, stopping tillage, and adding cover crops to protect the soil. These changes led to improvements in soil health, animal well-being, and the diversity of plants, microbes, insects, and fungi. However, some farmers faced pushback from church leadership, with some interpreting critiques of conventional agriculture as a challenge to American rural values or a sign that Jesus will soon return to Earth. Berry's legacy has inspired these farmers to continue their work, as they believe that caring for creation is in line with their faith.