The agricultural co-operatives, 'Colle dell'Acero' (The Maple Hill) and 'Albero della Vita' (The Tree of Life) use the rules and method of organic production to rear livestock and cultivate fruit and vegetables. The search for an ethical type of production, maintaining the harmony of man with nature, resulted in the choice of 'organic'. Within the working environment the creativity of each individual, a high level of collaboration, and a joint sense of responsibility all contribute to an effective method of production. This system also provides humane, spiritual and environmental benefits and the possibility of employment. It provides an innovative re-working of the traditional professions and gives young people and young families, who value the simple life, the possibility of making an informed and intelligent choice to 'return to the land'.