Frank Newman Turner

Frank Newman Turner (1904–1993) was a pioneering organic farmer, author, and advocate for natural health and agriculture practices in the United Kingdom. His work and writings laid the groundwork for the organic movement in Britain and influenced generations of organic farmers and gardeners.

Early Life and Education

Frank Newman Turner was born in 1904 in England. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in farming and the natural world, which would later shape his career and philosophy. Details about his early education are sparse, but it is known that his experiences on his family's farm played a crucial role in developing his understanding and appreciation of traditional farming methods.

Career

Turner's career in agriculture began in the early 1920s. Disenchanted with the increasing industrialization of agriculture and its reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, Turner sought to develop and promote a system of farming that worked in harmony with nature. He was a pioneer of the organic farming movement in the UK, experimenting with and implementing practices such as crop rotation, composting, and the use of natural pest controls on his own farm.

In addition to his farming activities, Turner was a prolific writer and advocate for organic methods. He authored several influential books and articles on the subject, including "Fertility Farming," "Herdsmanship," and "Fertility Pastures," which have become seminal works in the field of organic agriculture. Through his writings, Turner emphasized the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance, principles that remain central to organic farming today.

Advocacy and Legacy

Throughout his life, Turner was an outspoken advocate for organic farming and natural health. He was involved in the establishment of several organizations dedicated to promoting organic agriculture, including the Soil Association, which remains one of the leading organic certification bodies in the UK. Turner's advocacy work helped to raise awareness of the benefits of organic farming and contributed to the growth of the organic movement in Britain and beyond.

Frank Newman Turner's legacy is evident in the continued growth and popularity of organic farming. His pioneering work and writings have inspired countless farmers, gardeners, and advocates of sustainable agriculture. Today, the principles he championed are increasingly recognized as essential to addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss.

Selected Works

• Fertility Farming
• Herdsmanship
• Fertility Pastures

See Also

• Organic farming
• Soil health
• Sustainable agriculture
• Soil Association