There were more weeds than profits at the Hartzler farm during the first few years of conversion. It was no small decision to abandon the use of petrochemicals, which at the time were promoted heavily. But Harold and Patricia persevered. While he scrounged the farm and sold off old equipment for cash, she stretched the family food dollars with tasty but economical recipes. Eventually the Hartzlers began to see a return on their efforts. Their crop yields increased, their livestock's health improved and their dairy began to produce profitable and great-tasting milk.

Harold's methods are also being studied internationally. He was flown to Italy where he met with agricultural dignitaries from the Italian government and six other nations. "I was nervous," says Harold. "I went over there thinking I was going to be talking to farmers. Well, it was a good thing I spoke through an interpreter because that gave me time to think between sentences while I was presenting to all those officials," he adds.

However, Harold will quickly announce with a proud smile, "My sons said that if they couldn't farm naturally, they wouldn't farm at all." This is a key truth that obviously gladdens his heart. He knows he has left a valuable legacy.