GAYS MILLS, WI-Turkey Ridge Orchard, formally known as the Midwest Organic Fruit Growers Cooperative, has retired its tractors and lawnmowers, and now depends on animals to do the tilling and mowing.

In a move designed to lessen their use of the fossil fuels responsible for global climate change, the 17-person cooperative has purchased 5 pigs, 9 sheep, and 2000 chickens.

Said Faye Rogers, co-op president, “The sheep do the mowing and light pruning [of the apple trees], the pigs eat the fallen apples and do the tilling, the chickens and pigs eat bugs and grubs, and all of them fertilize as they go!”

The orchard has been organic since it was planted 18 years ago, and the chickens' voracious appetites have greatly reduced insect damage. A test plot revealed a 70% reduction in pest damage to apples.

The large farm house will accommodate all the bicyclists who wish to pedal an estimated 100 miles in the first annual “Turkey Ridge Trek” from Madison on April 21.

MADISON, WI - High school students, retirees, homeschooled children and nature lovers are among those expected to fill a luxury bus on Sat., Apr. 22, for the 2 hr. trip to Gays Mills, WI.

Organized by DOERS: Doers Offering Emergency Relief Support, the third annual work day is part of a campaign to encourage consumers to cut back on CO2 emissions by buying locally-produced food.

The volunteers will be planting thousands of raspberry bushes that have been purchased from a Madison property, and will take one home, along with free eggs. There are frequent breaks, snacks, and mini-lectures by co-op members about their sustainable way of life.

After their labors, the volunteers will be treated to a free home-cooked feast with meat, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Said Phyllis Hasbrouck, of DOERS, “This opportunity is back by popular demand! Contact us soon to reserve your place on the bus, or join our bicycle brigade that will pedal out on Friday!”