This listserv is for people opposed to large factory farms in South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska. Much of what passes for economic development these days consists of little more than putting up the "Come On Down and Plunder" sign. It’s a failure of imagination.

Voters repeatedly oppose factory farms. But the special interests won't take no for an answer. Not to be inconvenienced by a mere thing like the will of the voters, they use their stable of lawyers, lobbyists and public relations firms to invent new ways to get around democracy. On this listserv we will discuss their dirty tricks, what we can do about them and viable ways to improve our state's economy without risking our air, water or our quality of life.

Many of our elected officials believe there are only two ways to look at the issue of corporate agriculture. Either you're a modern forward thinking pro-corporate agriculture cheerleader or you're a romantic stuck in the past without a clue about the future.

We can see a third path. We can ask, what kinds of social resources would be helpful to individuals in their struggles? Government should be for the people not for special interests. What does it make sense to do together? Quality of life is not a romantic, outmoded idea. We should respect local people and allow them to use their judgment. We must ask them what they need to improve their economy, community and lives. We can empower people to live their dreams.

Join this listserv and let's start exploring the options.