I should've suspected something like this existed but the thought never really crossed my mind. Apparently Veganic Farming (or Gardening) is on the rise.

What is Veganic Gardening? Its basically the organic gardening method minus any animal fertilizers or byproducts.

Its not surprising with the relatively recent salmonella outbreaks that this farming method is catching some buzz.

A few resources:

• a more detailed explanation
• an organization that certifies Veganic Farms
• you can even get the book

As for my two cents, I'm not sure I'll be jumping into Veganic Gardening anytime soon. I'm not opposed to the idea, just haven't thought much about it yet.

With regards to minimizing the spread of disease, for me its more about growing/eating locally and using local resources. Disease is a lot less likely to be widespread if a contaminated crop is only consumed by people within a certain vicinity of the farm as opposed to being shipped all over the entire country.

I also think using local animal byproducts is another step toward the prevention of widespread disease. For instance, I use my rabbits manure as a fertilizer. Unlike the cow manure I get at Lowes, I know where her manure has been, I know what she ate to make that manure and I'm always aware of her health (so I know the manure is not from an unhealthy animal).

Although, I'm interested to hear if anyone else here is practicing Veganic methods and/or what your thoughts on them are.