My ECHOing Thoughts



My visit to ECHO in 2008

 My overall opinion of ECHO was a great one!  I feel that it is a wonderful organization that is truly caring, hard-working, and legitimate in their goal(s).  What really stood out to me was ECHO’s general ingenuity in how they set up and planted their crops.  Not only did they try and use every bit of land that they could, but they worked to maximize their product.  They cleverly placed plants in appropriate places, used natural pesticides, and even used the knowledge they have of other plants to strategically plant them in places where each crop would benefit from the other (while even using the same land).  The examples of crops that were showcased compared to my view of “American” agriculture by the simplicity, resourcefulness, naturalness, and relationship and fulfillment from nature that I view comes from the field of agriculture.  In regards to their work being relevant to the developing world, it can be seen both ways.  ECHO offers their knowledge of farming and works to help enhance and advance other countries’ ways of farming, however, is not exactly preparing them to develop “industrially.”  I am not sure, however, if they want to develop as we have, which I feel ECHO is not attempting to do.  Even if it is not for the remainder of my service learning, I have once before and intend on once more completing service learning hours there.  Not only do I feel that what they are doing is noble, beneficial, respectful, and much needed, but it would be a great opportunity to spend time in nature all the while serving others who do not have the luxuries that we do.