The biodynamic difference
By Ella Henson ABA Sustainability Officer
FOR the Keens family , biodynamic farming is a way of life . Their holistic approach to farming is reflected in the name Manna Farms - ' Manna ' meaning divine or spiritual nourishment . Located an hour out of Mildura in Victoria ’ s far north-west , Manna Farms is Australia ’ s largest producer of biodynamic almonds , as well as one of the leading producers of biodynamic citrus and avocados . However , biodynamic farming hasn ’ t always been a priority for the Keens . In 1969 Ian Keen was one of the first people in Sunraysia to plant almonds . However , he struggled to grow almonds conventionally . In an attempt to find a solution , Ian found himself using larger and larger quantities of conventional fertiliser . Clearly , something had to change . In the early 1980s Ian ’ s sister suggested he consult with a biodynamic farming expert . Testing revealed that the soil was completely depleted . This revelation started Ian ’ s organic and biodynamic farming journey , and in 1989 Ian produced his first certified organic almonds . For the next generation of Keens , dad Ian ’ s philosophy is central to their farming practices .
Sons David and Rob , who now own and manage Manna Farms , didn ’ t want to see their dad ’ s hard work go to waste . “ Our philosophy has always been to show we can grow reasonably big commercial quantities or organic produce and have it sustain a business ," David said . However , maintaining their business can be a balancing act . Although organic almonds attract a premium price , the yield difference between organic and conventional almonds is significant , with organic almonds yielding 30-40 % lower than the industry standard . There are also higher expenses associated with operating costs
14 In A Nutshell - Spring 2022 Vol 23 Issue 3