Sustainable farming
michaelnewbold980
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May 05, 2014
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About This Presentation
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Slide Content
An An
Introduction to Introduction to
Sustainable Sustainable
Farming Farming
OSU Extension Small Farms OSU Extension Small Farms
Introduction to Introduction to
Sustainable Sustainable
Farming Farming
OSU Extension Small Farms OSU Extension Small Farms
What is sustainability? What is sustainability?
„„
““Leave the world better than you found it, take no Leave the world better than you found it, take no
more than you need, try not to harm life or the more than you need, try not to harm life or the
environment, make amends if you do. environment, make amends if you do. ””
––Paul Hawken Paul Hawken
„„
““Sustainable design is the careful nesting of human Sustainable design is the careful nesting of human
purposes with the larger patterns and flows of the purposes with the larger patterns and flows of the
natural world... natural world...””
––David Orr David Orr
„„
The word "sustain," from the Latin The word "sustain," from the Latin sustinere sustinere ((sussus--, ,
from below and from below and tenere tenere, to hold), to keep in existence , to hold), to keep in existence
or maintain, implies long or maintain, implies long --term support or term support or
permanence. permanence.
„„
““Leave the world better than you found it, take no Leave the world better than you found it, take no
more than you need, try not to harm life or the more than you need, try not to harm life or the
environment, make amends if you do. environment, make amends if you do. ””
––Paul Hawken Paul Hawken
„„
““Sustainable design is the careful nesting of human Sustainable design is the careful nesting of human
purposes with the larger patterns and flows of the purposes with the larger patterns and flows of the
natural world... natural world...””
––David Orr David Orr
„„
The word "sustain," from the Latin The word "sustain," from the Latin sustinere sustinere ((sussus--, ,
from below and from below and tenere tenere, to hold), to keep in existence , to hold), to keep in existence
or maintain, implies long or maintain, implies long --term support or term support or
permanence. permanence.
What is sustainable agriculture? What is sustainable agriculture?
„„
A farm system that mimics as closely as A farm system that mimics as closely as
possible the complexity of a healthy and possible the complexity of a healthy and
natural ecosystem. natural ecosystem.
„„
Goals include: Goals include:
Providing a more profitable farm income. Providing a more profitable farm income.
Promoting environmental stewardship. Promoting environmental stewardship.
Promoting stable, prosperous farm Promoting stable, prosperous farm
families and communities. families and communities.
„„
A farm system that mimics as closely as A farm system that mimics as closely as
possible the complexity of a healthy and possible the complexity of a healthy and
natural ecosystem. natural ecosystem.
„„
Goals include: Goals include:
Providing a more profitable farm income. Providing a more profitable farm income.
Promoting environmental stewardship. Promoting environmental stewardship.
Promoting stable, prosperous farm Promoting stable, prosperous farm
families and communities. families and communities.
Sustainable Agriculture: Sustainable Agriculture:
„„
Reduces inputs. Reduces inputs.
„„
Uses ecological pest and weed management Uses ecological pest and weed management
strategies. strategies.
„„
Cycles nutrients back into the soil for fertility Cycles nutrients back into the soil for fertility
and health. and health.
„„
Strengthens rural and urban communities. Strengthens rural and urban communities.
„„
Produces viable farm income. Produces viable farm income.
„„
Promotes healthy family and social values. Promotes healthy family and social values.
„„
Brings the consumer back into agriculture. Brings the consumer back into agriculture.
„„
Reduces inputs. Reduces inputs.
„„
Uses ecological pest and weed management Uses ecological pest and weed management
strategies. strategies.
„„
Cycles nutrients back into the soil for fertility Cycles nutrients back into the soil for fertility
and health. and health.
„„
Strengthens rural and urban communities. Strengthens rural and urban communities.
„„
Produces viable farm income. Produces viable farm income.
„„
Promotes healthy family and social values. Promotes healthy family and social values.
„„
Brings the consumer back into agriculture. Brings the consumer back into agriculture.
Sustainable Agriculture Sustainable Agriculture
„„
Sustainable describes farming systems Sustainable describes farming systems
that are "capable of maintaining their that are "capable of maintaining their
productivity and usefulness to society productivity and usefulness to society
indefinitely. Such systems... must be indefinitely. Such systems... must be
resource resource--conserving, socially conserving, socially
supportive, commercially competitive, supportive, commercially competitive,
and environmentally sound." [John and environmentally sound." [John
Ikerd, as quoted by Richard Duesterhaus Ikerd, as quoted by Richard Duesterhaus
in "Sustainability's Promise," in "Sustainability's Promise," Journal of Journal of
Soil and Water Conservation Soil and Water Conservation (Jan. (Jan.--Feb. Feb.
1990) 45(1). 1990) 45(1).
„„
Sustainable describes farming systems Sustainable describes farming systems
that are "capable of maintaining their that are "capable of maintaining their
productivity and usefulness to society productivity and usefulness to society
indefinitely. Such systems... must be indefinitely. Such systems... must be
resource resource--conserving, socially conserving, socially
supportive, commercially competitive, supportive, commercially competitive,
and environmentally sound." [John and environmentally sound." [John
Ikerd, as quoted by Richard Duesterhaus Ikerd, as quoted by Richard Duesterhaus
in "Sustainability's Promise," in "Sustainability's Promise," Journal of Journal of
Soil and Water Conservation Soil and Water Conservation (Jan. (Jan.--Feb. Feb.
1990) 45(1). 1990) 45(1).
Types of Sustainable Farming Types of Sustainable Farming
„„
Organic farming Organic farming
„„
Biodynamic Biodynamic
„„
Permaculture Permaculture
„„
Agroecological AgroecologicalSystems Systems
„„
LowLow--input input
„„
Organic farming Organic farming
„„
Biodynamic Biodynamic
„„
Permaculture Permaculture
„„
Agroecological AgroecologicalSystems Systems
„„
LowLow--input input
Why Sustainable Agriculture? Why Sustainable Agriculture?
„„
Environmental Damage Environmental Damage
„„
Environmental Damage Environmental Damage
Why Sustainable Agriculture? Why Sustainable Agriculture?
„„
Economic concentration of agribusiness gives Economic concentration of agribusiness gives
farmers little power or control over production, farmers little power or control over production,
marketing and distribution. marketing and distribution.
„„
Loss of farms Loss of farms ----155,000 farms were lost from 155,000 farms were lost from
1987 to 1997 and 30 million acres have been 1987 to 1997 and 30 million acres have been
lost to development. lost to development.
„„
Economic concentration of agribusiness gives Economic concentration of agribusiness gives
farmers little power or control over production, farmers little power or control over production,
marketing and distribution. marketing and distribution.
„„
Loss of farms Loss of farms ----155,000 farms were lost from 155,000 farms were lost from
1987 to 1997 and 30 million acres have been 1987 to 1997 and 30 million acres have been
lost to development. lost to development.
Active marketing Passive marketing
Multiple-use equipment Single-use equipment
Higher value products Low-value products
Diversity of plants and animals Monoculture
Many enterprises Single enterprise
Enterprise integration Enterprise separation
Farm as ecosystem Farm as factory
Cyclical process Linear process
Information intensive Energy intensive
Biological model
Industrial model Table 1. Comparison of the industrial and biological models of
agriculture.
Multiple-use equipment Single-use equipment
Higher value products Low-value products
Diversity of plants and animals Monoculture
Many enterprises Single enterprise
Enterprise integration Enterprise separation
Farm as ecosystem Farm as factory
Cyclical process Linear process
Information intensive Energy intensive
Biological model
Industrial model Table 1. Comparison of the industrial and biological models of
agriculture.
““The best way to communicate the meaning of The best way to communicate the meaning of
sustainable agriculture is through real sustainable agriculture is through real --life stories of life stories of
farmers who are developing sustainable farming farmers who are developing sustainable farming
systems on their own farms. systems on their own farms. ””
--John John Ikerd Ikerd
sustainable agriculture is through real sustainable agriculture is through real --life stories of life stories of
farmers who are developing sustainable farming farmers who are developing sustainable farming
systems on their own farms. systems on their own farms. ””
--John John Ikerd Ikerd
Environmental Sustainability Environmental Sustainability
„„
Sustainable agriculture can be viewed as management Sustainable agriculture can be viewed as management
of a production system where there is a multitude of of a production system where there is a multitude of
complex interactions occurring between soil, water, complex interactions occurring between soil, water,
plants, animals, climate and people. plants, animals, climate and people.
„„
The The GOAL GOALis to integrate all these components into a is to integrate all these components into a
solid production system that benefits all participants. solid production system that benefits all participants.
„„
Farms stay environmentally sustainable by mimicking Farms stay environmentally sustainable by mimicking
natural processes and ecosystem function. natural processes and ecosystem function.
„„
Diversifying our farms with various enterprises, both Diversifying our farms with various enterprises, both
animals and crops, we manage risks a whole lot better. animals and crops, we manage risks a whole lot better.
„„
Sustainable agriculture can be viewed as management Sustainable agriculture can be viewed as management
of a production system where there is a multitude of of a production system where there is a multitude of
complex interactions occurring between soil, water, complex interactions occurring between soil, water,
plants, animals, climate and people. plants, animals, climate and people.
„„
The The GOAL GOALis to integrate all these components into a is to integrate all these components into a
solid production system that benefits all participants. solid production system that benefits all participants.
„„
Farms stay environmentally sustainable by mimicking Farms stay environmentally sustainable by mimicking
natural processes and ecosystem function. natural processes and ecosystem function.
„„
Diversifying our farms with various enterprises, both Diversifying our farms with various enterprises, both
animals and crops, we manage risks a whole lot better. animals and crops, we manage risks a whole lot better.
Seven Seeds Farm, Williams, Oregon
Cattail Creek Lamb, Junction City,
Oregon
Oregon
Farm as an Ecosystem: Energy Flow Farm as an Ecosystem: Energy Flow
„„
Energy flow is the pathway of sunlight through a Energy flow is the pathway of sunlight through a
biological system. biological system.
„„
In relation to the farm, energy capture is enhanced by In relation to the farm, energy capture is enhanced by
maximizing the leaf area available for photsynthesis maximizing the leaf area available for photsynthesis
and by cycling the stored energy through the food and by cycling the stored energy through the food
chain. chain.
„„
We make money in farming by capturing sunlight We make money in farming by capturing sunlight ––
in essence, we are farming the sun (and the soil). in essence, we are farming the sun (and the soil).
„„
Energy flow is the pathway of sunlight through a Energy flow is the pathway of sunlight through a
biological system. biological system.
„„
In relation to the farm, energy capture is enhanced by In relation to the farm, energy capture is enhanced by
maximizing the leaf area available for photsynthesis maximizing the leaf area available for photsynthesis
and by cycling the stored energy through the food and by cycling the stored energy through the food
chain. chain.
„„
We make money in farming by capturing sunlight We make money in farming by capturing sunlight ––
in essence, we are farming the sun (and the soil). in essence, we are farming the sun (and the soil).
Energy Flow. Source: Sullivan, 1999.
Illustration by Janet Bachmann.
Illustration by Janet Bachmann.
Farm as an Ecosystem: Water Cycle Farm as an Ecosystem: Water Cycle
„„
An effective water cycle includes: no soil An effective water cycle includes: no soil
erosion, fast water entry into the soil and the erosion, fast water entry into the soil and the
soil soil’’s ability to store water. s ability to store water.
„„
Management decisions on the farm that add to Management decisions on the farm that add to
ground cover and soil organic matter only ground cover and soil organic matter only
enhance the natural water cycle. enhance the natural water cycle.
„„
Effective water use on the farm results in low surface Effective water use on the farm results in low surface
runoff, low soil surface evaporation, low drought runoff, low soil surface evaporation, low drought
incidence, low flood incidence, high transpiration by incidence, low flood incidence, high transpiration by
plants and high seepage of water to underground plants and high seepage of water to underground
reservoirs (Savory and Butterfield, 1999). reservoirs (Savory and Butterfield, 1999).
„„
An effective water cycle includes: no soil An effective water cycle includes: no soil
erosion, fast water entry into the soil and the erosion, fast water entry into the soil and the
soil soil’’s ability to store water. s ability to store water.
„„
Management decisions on the farm that add to Management decisions on the farm that add to
ground cover and soil organic matter only ground cover and soil organic matter only
enhance the natural water cycle. enhance the natural water cycle.
„„
Effective water use on the farm results in low surface Effective water use on the farm results in low surface
runoff, low soil surface evaporation, low drought runoff, low soil surface evaporation, low drought
incidence, low flood incidence, high transpiration by incidence, low flood incidence, high transpiration by
plants and high seepage of water to underground plants and high seepage of water to underground
reservoirs (Savory and Butterfield, 1999). reservoirs (Savory and Butterfield, 1999).
Water Cycle. Source: United States Climate Change Global Research Program, 2001.
Farm as an Ecosystem: Farm as an Ecosystem:
Mineral Cycle Mineral Cycle
„„
In nature, minerals needed for plant and animal In nature, minerals needed for plant and animal
growth are continuously being recycled growth are continuously being recycled
through the ecosystem. through the ecosystem.
„„
An effective mineral cycle is one where there An effective mineral cycle is one where there
is a movement of nutrients from the soil to is a movement of nutrients from the soil to
crops and animals and then back to the soil, crops and animals and then back to the soil,
basically basically a circle of nutrient renewal a circle of nutrient renewal ..
„„
Ways to enhance this cycle on the farm Ways to enhance this cycle on the farm
include: on include: on--farm feeding of livestock, careful farm feeding of livestock, careful
management of manure and crop residues, and management of manure and crop residues, and
practices that prevent erosion. practices that prevent erosion.
Mineral Cycle Mineral Cycle
„„
In nature, minerals needed for plant and animal In nature, minerals needed for plant and animal
growth are continuously being recycled growth are continuously being recycled
through the ecosystem. through the ecosystem.
„„
An effective mineral cycle is one where there An effective mineral cycle is one where there
is a movement of nutrients from the soil to is a movement of nutrients from the soil to
crops and animals and then back to the soil, crops and animals and then back to the soil,
basically basically a circle of nutrient renewal a circle of nutrient renewal ..
„„
Ways to enhance this cycle on the farm Ways to enhance this cycle on the farm
include: on include: on--farm feeding of livestock, careful farm feeding of livestock, careful
management of manure and crop residues, and management of manure and crop residues, and
practices that prevent erosion. practices that prevent erosion.
Source: ATTRA. Illustration by Andrea Fournet
Farm as an Ecosystem: Biodiversity Farm as an Ecosystem: Biodiversity
„„
A farm will be dynamic and healthy if it has a A farm will be dynamic and healthy if it has a
high diversity high diversityof plants and animals (above of plants and animals (above
ground and below). ground and below).
„„
GREATER GREATER
DIVERSITY = DIVERSITY =
GREATER GREATER
STABILITY STABILITY
„„
A farm will be dynamic and healthy if it has a A farm will be dynamic and healthy if it has a
high diversity high diversityof plants and animals (above of plants and animals (above
ground and below). ground and below).
„„
GREATER GREATER
DIVERSITY = DIVERSITY =
GREATER GREATER
STABILITY STABILITY
Social Sustainability Social Sustainability
„„
Buying farm supplies locally rather than from out Buying farm supplies locally rather than from out --
ofof--state. state.
„„
Educating your community about sustainable food Educating your community about sustainable food
production. production.
„„
Direct marketing through CSAs and farmers Direct marketing through CSAs and farmers ’’
markets builds community and social sustainability. markets builds community and social sustainability.
„„
School tours and farm internships. School tours and farm internships.
„„
Quality of life on the farm for everyone involved Quality of life on the farm for everyone involved
with clear communication and general happiness with clear communication and general happiness
with farm work. with farm work.
„„
Buying farm supplies locally rather than from out Buying farm supplies locally rather than from out --
ofof--state. state.
„„
Educating your community about sustainable food Educating your community about sustainable food
production. production.
„„
Direct marketing through CSAs and farmers Direct marketing through CSAs and farmers ’’
markets builds community and social sustainability. markets builds community and social sustainability.
„„
School tours and farm internships. School tours and farm internships.
„„
Quality of life on the farm for everyone involved Quality of life on the farm for everyone involved
with clear communication and general happiness with clear communication and general happiness
with farm work. with farm work.
Economic Sustainability Economic Sustainability
„„
Selecting profitable enterprises. Selecting profitable enterprises.
„„
Sound financial planning. Sound financial planning.
„„
Direct marketing. Direct marketing.
„„
Risk management. Risk management.
„„
Selecting profitable enterprises. Selecting profitable enterprises.
„„
Sound financial planning. Sound financial planning.
„„
Direct marketing. Direct marketing.
„„
Risk management. Risk management.
Applying the Principles: Applying the Principles:
Soil Fertility Management Soil Fertility Management
„„
Goal is to sustain high crop productivity and crop quality in Goal is to sustain high crop productivity and crop quality in
food and fiber production as well as in grass farming. food and fiber production as well as in grass farming.
„„
Strive to keep the soil covered throughout the year, whether Strive to keep the soil covered throughout the year, whether
with permanent pasture or cover crops and green manures. with permanent pasture or cover crops and green manures.
„„
Maintain or build soil organic matter levels through inputs of Maintain or build soil organic matter levels through inputs of
compost or cover cropping. compost or cover cropping.
„„
Properly timed or limited tillage. Properly timed or limited tillage.
„„
Irrigation management to reduce erosion and runoff. Irrigation management to reduce erosion and runoff.
„„
Sound crop rotations, soil amending and organic fertilizing Sound crop rotations, soil amending and organic fertilizing
techniques. techniques.
„„
Balanced levels of available plant nutrients and balanced PH. Balanced levels of available plant nutrients and balanced PH.
Soil Fertility Management Soil Fertility Management
„„
Goal is to sustain high crop productivity and crop quality in Goal is to sustain high crop productivity and crop quality in
food and fiber production as well as in grass farming. food and fiber production as well as in grass farming.
„„
Strive to keep the soil covered throughout the year, whether Strive to keep the soil covered throughout the year, whether
with permanent pasture or cover crops and green manures. with permanent pasture or cover crops and green manures.
„„
Maintain or build soil organic matter levels through inputs of Maintain or build soil organic matter levels through inputs of
compost or cover cropping. compost or cover cropping.
„„
Properly timed or limited tillage. Properly timed or limited tillage.
„„
Irrigation management to reduce erosion and runoff. Irrigation management to reduce erosion and runoff.
„„
Sound crop rotations, soil amending and organic fertilizing Sound crop rotations, soil amending and organic fertilizing
techniques. techniques.
„„
Balanced levels of available plant nutrients and balanced PH. Balanced levels of available plant nutrients and balanced PH.
Soil Fertility: Cover Crops Soil Fertility: Cover Crops
„„
Perennial and biennial sod crops, annual Perennial and biennial sod crops, annual
green manures, and annual cover crops all green manures, and annual cover crops all
build soil. Examples include vetch, rye, oats, build soil. Examples include vetch, rye, oats,
fava beans, clover, buckwheat, sudangrass fava beans, clover, buckwheat, sudangrass
and sunnhemp. and sunnhemp.
„„
Increase nutrient availability. Increase nutrient availability.
„„
Temperature, moisture conditions, placement Temperature, moisture conditions, placement
of the residue and quality of the cover crop of the residue and quality of the cover crop
influence nutrient release. influence nutrient release.
„„
Perennial and biennial sod crops, annual Perennial and biennial sod crops, annual
green manures, and annual cover crops all green manures, and annual cover crops all
build soil. Examples include vetch, rye, oats, build soil. Examples include vetch, rye, oats,
fava beans, clover, buckwheat, sudangrass fava beans, clover, buckwheat, sudangrass
and sunnhemp. and sunnhemp.
„„
Increase nutrient availability. Increase nutrient availability.
„„
Temperature, moisture conditions, placement Temperature, moisture conditions, placement
of the residue and quality of the cover crop of the residue and quality of the cover crop
influence nutrient release. influence nutrient release.
Soil Fertility: Cover Crops Soil Fertility: Cover Crops
„„
Cover crops improve the soil Cover crops improve the soil ’’s physical s physical
properties with carbon and nitrogen cycling. properties with carbon and nitrogen cycling.
„„
Some cover crops actually suppress certain Some cover crops actually suppress certain
parasitic nematodes and soil borne diseases, i.e. parasitic nematodes and soil borne diseases, i.e.
rye, triticale, mustards. rye, triticale, mustards.
„„
Cover crops have superb weed suppressing Cover crops have superb weed suppressing
effects by competing with weeds for light and effects by competing with weeds for light and
smothering unwanted plants or through smothering unwanted plants or through
allelopathy. allelopathy.
„„
Reduce erosion and attract beneficial bugs. Reduce erosion and attract beneficial bugs.
„„
Cover crops improve the soil Cover crops improve the soil ’’s physical s physical
properties with carbon and nitrogen cycling. properties with carbon and nitrogen cycling.
„„
Some cover crops actually suppress certain Some cover crops actually suppress certain
parasitic nematodes and soil borne diseases, i.e. parasitic nematodes and soil borne diseases, i.e.
rye, triticale, mustards. rye, triticale, mustards.
„„
Cover crops have superb weed suppressing Cover crops have superb weed suppressing
effects by competing with weeds for light and effects by competing with weeds for light and
smothering unwanted plants or through smothering unwanted plants or through
allelopathy. allelopathy.
„„
Reduce erosion and attract beneficial bugs. Reduce erosion and attract beneficial bugs.
Peas, Vetch & Oats Peas, Vetch & Oats
More Vetch, Bell Bean and Oats More Vetch, Bell Bean and Oats
Soil Fertility: Composts Soil Fertility: Composts
„„
Use of compost in crop production and grass Use of compost in crop production and grass
farming is beneficial to build soil organic matter, farming is beneficial to build soil organic matter,
add nutrients to the soil and retain water. add nutrients to the soil and retain water.
„„
Nutrient contribution of manure Nutrient contribution of manure --based based
compost is balanced between N compost is balanced between N--PP--K. Have a K. Have a
compost nutrient assessment done. compost nutrient assessment done.
„„
How much compost to apply and timing is How much compost to apply and timing is
different on each farm. different on each farm.
„„
Ease and economics of use, local availability Ease and economics of use, local availability
and costs as well as variability of quality. and costs as well as variability of quality.
„„
Use of compost in crop production and grass Use of compost in crop production and grass
farming is beneficial to build soil organic matter, farming is beneficial to build soil organic matter,
add nutrients to the soil and retain water. add nutrients to the soil and retain water.
„„
Nutrient contribution of manure Nutrient contribution of manure --based based
compost is balanced between N compost is balanced between N--PP--K. Have a K. Have a
compost nutrient assessment done. compost nutrient assessment done.
„„
How much compost to apply and timing is How much compost to apply and timing is
different on each farm. different on each farm.
„„
Ease and economics of use, local availability Ease and economics of use, local availability
and costs as well as variability of quality. and costs as well as variability of quality.
Animal Manure Animal Manure
„„
Integrate grazing animals or other livestock Integrate grazing animals or other livestock
onto your farm to produce compost for your onto your farm to produce compost for your
fields. fields.
„„
The use of fresh or undecomposed manure in The use of fresh or undecomposed manure in
agricultural systems is of great benefit to the agricultural systems is of great benefit to the
farm. farm.
„„
There are variations in nutrient profiles of There are variations in nutrient profiles of
animal manures. animal manures.
„„
If using raw manure, cannot apply to fields for If using raw manure, cannot apply to fields for
organic certification less than 120 days before organic certification less than 120 days before
harvest. harvest.
„„
Integrate grazing animals or other livestock Integrate grazing animals or other livestock
onto your farm to produce compost for your onto your farm to produce compost for your
fields. fields.
„„
The use of fresh or undecomposed manure in The use of fresh or undecomposed manure in
agricultural systems is of great benefit to the agricultural systems is of great benefit to the
farm. farm.
„„
There are variations in nutrient profiles of There are variations in nutrient profiles of
animal manures. animal manures.
„„
If using raw manure, cannot apply to fields for If using raw manure, cannot apply to fields for
organic certification less than 120 days before organic certification less than 120 days before
harvest. harvest.
Composting Composting
OnOn--Farm Composting Farm Composting
Soil Fertility: Tillage Soil Fertility: Tillage
„„
Prepares the ground for seedlings and transplants. Prepares the ground for seedlings and transplants.
„„
Provides a range of residue incorporation options. Provides a range of residue incorporation options.
„„
Enables the incorporation of amendments. Enables the incorporation of amendments.
„„
Improves soil aeration, and breaks up soil clods to Improves soil aeration, and breaks up soil clods to
form good seed and root beds. form good seed and root beds.
„„
Improves water infiltration. Improves water infiltration.
„„
Increases rate of microbial activity and Increases rate of microbial activity and
mineralization. mineralization.
„„
Deep tillage can break through compacted layers. Deep tillage can break through compacted layers.
„„
Prepares the ground for seedlings and transplants. Prepares the ground for seedlings and transplants.
„„
Provides a range of residue incorporation options. Provides a range of residue incorporation options.
„„
Enables the incorporation of amendments. Enables the incorporation of amendments.
„„
Improves soil aeration, and breaks up soil clods to Improves soil aeration, and breaks up soil clods to
form good seed and root beds. form good seed and root beds.
„„
Improves water infiltration. Improves water infiltration.
„„
Increases rate of microbial activity and Increases rate of microbial activity and
mineralization. mineralization.
„„
Deep tillage can break through compacted layers. Deep tillage can break through compacted layers.
Tillage Tillage
„„
Accelerates the rate and extent of long Accelerates the rate and extent of long --term term
declines in soil organic matter. declines in soil organic matter.
„„
May increase sub May increase sub--soil compaction. soil compaction.
„„
High energy and labor costs. High energy and labor costs.
„„
Loss of soil organic matter from excessive Loss of soil organic matter from excessive
tillage can lead to crusting of bare soils. tillage can lead to crusting of bare soils.
„„
Accelerates the rate and extent of long Accelerates the rate and extent of long --term term
declines in soil organic matter. declines in soil organic matter.
„„
May increase sub May increase sub--soil compaction. soil compaction.
„„
High energy and labor costs. High energy and labor costs.
„„
Loss of soil organic matter from excessive Loss of soil organic matter from excessive
tillage can lead to crusting of bare soils. tillage can lead to crusting of bare soils.
Reduced and no Reduced and no--tillage systems tillage systems
„„
Residue cover protects the soil from wind and Residue cover protects the soil from wind and
water erosion. water erosion.
„„
Allows for greater moisture retention in rain Allows for greater moisture retention in rain --
fed systems. fed systems.
„„
These systems build soil organic matter over a These systems build soil organic matter over a
period of years, and reach a higher period of years, and reach a higher ““steady steady
state state””level than tilled systems in the same level than tilled systems in the same
environment. environment.
„„
Residue cover protects the soil from wind and Residue cover protects the soil from wind and
water erosion. water erosion.
„„
Allows for greater moisture retention in rain Allows for greater moisture retention in rain --
fed systems. fed systems.
„„
These systems build soil organic matter over a These systems build soil organic matter over a
period of years, and reach a higher period of years, and reach a higher ““steady steady
state state””level than tilled systems in the same level than tilled systems in the same
environment. environment.
Reduced and no Reduced and no--till systems till systems
„„
Residue cover lowers soil temperature, which delays Residue cover lowers soil temperature, which delays
seed germination and slows seedling growth and may seed germination and slows seedling growth and may
place growers at an economic disadvantage. place growers at an economic disadvantage.
„„
Weed control is very difficult without the use of Weed control is very difficult without the use of
herbicides. herbicides.
„„
Requires specialized equipment to plant through thick Requires specialized equipment to plant through thick
layer of residue. layer of residue.
„„
Increased leaching of nutrients and herbicides into the Increased leaching of nutrients and herbicides into the
groundwater has been shown in some conventional groundwater has been shown in some conventional
reduced and no reduced and no--till systems after many years of these till systems after many years of these
practices. practices.
„„
Residue cover lowers soil temperature, which delays Residue cover lowers soil temperature, which delays
seed germination and slows seedling growth and may seed germination and slows seedling growth and may
place growers at an economic disadvantage. place growers at an economic disadvantage.
„„
Weed control is very difficult without the use of Weed control is very difficult without the use of
herbicides. herbicides.
„„
Requires specialized equipment to plant through thick Requires specialized equipment to plant through thick
layer of residue. layer of residue.
„„
Increased leaching of nutrients and herbicides into the Increased leaching of nutrients and herbicides into the
groundwater has been shown in some conventional groundwater has been shown in some conventional
reduced and no reduced and no--till systems after many years of these till systems after many years of these
practices. practices.
Spader Spader
Tilling with Row Markers Tilling with Row Markers
Rototiller Preparing Seed Beds Rototiller Preparing Seed Beds
NoNo--Till Roller Till Roller
Deep Tillage Chisel Plow Deep Tillage Chisel Plow
And yes, farmers do still plow with And yes, farmers do still plow with
horses! horses!
horses! horses!
Soil Fertility: Soil Amendments & Soil Fertility: Soil Amendments &
Supplemental Fertilizers Supplemental Fertilizers
„„
Organic amendments and fertilizers are useful as long Organic amendments and fertilizers are useful as long
as they are in balance with the rest of the system. Use as they are in balance with the rest of the system. Use
soil test to find deficiencies. soil test to find deficiencies.
„„
Balance nutrient inputs with nutrient outputs each Balance nutrient inputs with nutrient outputs each
year. year.
„„
Inputs>outputs=accumulation. Results in risk of Inputs>outputs=accumulation. Results in risk of
excess nutrients creating nonpoint source pollution excess nutrients creating nonpoint source pollution
and enhancing disease and pest incidence. and enhancing disease and pest incidence.
„„
Inputs<outputs=soil depletion. Potential risk of plant Inputs<outputs=soil depletion. Potential risk of plant
nutrient deficiencies and stress, reduced yield, and nutrient deficiencies and stress, reduced yield, and
increased susceptibility to pest and pathogens. increased susceptibility to pest and pathogens.
Supplemental Fertilizers Supplemental Fertilizers
„„
Organic amendments and fertilizers are useful as long Organic amendments and fertilizers are useful as long
as they are in balance with the rest of the system. Use as they are in balance with the rest of the system. Use
soil test to find deficiencies. soil test to find deficiencies.
„„
Balance nutrient inputs with nutrient outputs each Balance nutrient inputs with nutrient outputs each
year. year.
„„
Inputs>outputs=accumulation. Results in risk of Inputs>outputs=accumulation. Results in risk of
excess nutrients creating nonpoint source pollution excess nutrients creating nonpoint source pollution
and enhancing disease and pest incidence. and enhancing disease and pest incidence.
„„
Inputs<outputs=soil depletion. Potential risk of plant Inputs<outputs=soil depletion. Potential risk of plant
nutrient deficiencies and stress, reduced yield, and nutrient deficiencies and stress, reduced yield, and
increased susceptibility to pest and pathogens. increased susceptibility to pest and pathogens.
Soil Fertility: Crop Rotation Soil Fertility: Crop Rotation
„„
Break weed and pest cycles. Break weed and pest cycles.
„„
Provide complementary fertilization to crops Provide complementary fertilization to crops
in sequence with each other, i.e. legume crops in sequence with each other, i.e. legume crops
preceding corn or tomatoes. preceding corn or tomatoes.
„„
Prevent buildup of pest insects and weeds. Prevent buildup of pest insects and weeds.
„„
In some cases, yield increases follow from the In some cases, yield increases follow from the
““rotation effect. rotation effect. ””
„„
Ideal rotation includes planning over the long Ideal rotation includes planning over the long --
term with fields in rotation of crops, cover term with fields in rotation of crops, cover
crops or sod, and livestock. crops or sod, and livestock.
„„
Break weed and pest cycles. Break weed and pest cycles.
„„
Provide complementary fertilization to crops Provide complementary fertilization to crops
in sequence with each other, i.e. legume crops in sequence with each other, i.e. legume crops
preceding corn or tomatoes. preceding corn or tomatoes.
„„
Prevent buildup of pest insects and weeds. Prevent buildup of pest insects and weeds.
„„
In some cases, yield increases follow from the In some cases, yield increases follow from the
““rotation effect. rotation effect. ””
„„
Ideal rotation includes planning over the long Ideal rotation includes planning over the long --
term with fields in rotation of crops, cover term with fields in rotation of crops, cover
crops or sod, and livestock. crops or sod, and livestock.
Crop Rotation Considerations Crop Rotation Considerations
„„
Avoid rotation of crop species that share similar pests Avoid rotation of crop species that share similar pests
and diseases. Intersperse with different crops to break and diseases. Intersperse with different crops to break
pest and disease cycles. pest and disease cycles.
„„
Rotate crops to maximize use of nutrient inputs and Rotate crops to maximize use of nutrient inputs and
distribute nutrient demand placed on soil. distribute nutrient demand placed on soil.
„„
Think about fallow periods and perennial cover crops. Think about fallow periods and perennial cover crops.
„„
Intercropping is the growing of two or more crops in Intercropping is the growing of two or more crops in
proximity to promote interaction between them. proximity to promote interaction between them.
„„
Avoid rotation of crop species that share similar pests Avoid rotation of crop species that share similar pests
and diseases. Intersperse with different crops to break and diseases. Intersperse with different crops to break
pest and disease cycles. pest and disease cycles.
„„
Rotate crops to maximize use of nutrient inputs and Rotate crops to maximize use of nutrient inputs and
distribute nutrient demand placed on soil. distribute nutrient demand placed on soil.
„„
Think about fallow periods and perennial cover crops. Think about fallow periods and perennial cover crops.
„„
Intercropping is the growing of two or more crops in Intercropping is the growing of two or more crops in
proximity to promote interaction between them. proximity to promote interaction between them.
Various Crop Rotations Various Crop Rotations
Guidelines for Crop Rotations Guidelines for Crop Rotations
„„
Follow a legume Follow a legume--sod crop with a high sod crop with a high--nitrogen nitrogen--demanding crop such as demanding crop such as
corn to take advantage of the nitrogen supply. corn to take advantage of the nitrogen supply.
„„
Grow less Grow less--nitrogen nitrogen--demanding crops such as oats, barley, or wheat in the demanding crops such as oats, barley, or wheat in the
second or third year after a legume sod. second or third year after a legume sod.
„„
Grow the same annual crop for onl y one year if possible to decre Grow the same annual crop for onl y one year if possible to decre ase the ase the
likelihood of insects, diseases , and nematodes becoming a proble likelihood of insects, diseases , and nematodes becoming a proble m.m.
„„
Don't follow one crop with anot her closely related species, sinc Don't follow one crop with anot her closely related species, sinc e insects, e insects,
disease, and nematode problems are frequently shared by members disease, and nematode problems are frequently shared by members of of
closely related crops. closely related crops.
„„
Use longer periods of perennial cr ops, such as legume sod, on sl Use longer periods of perennial cr ops, such as legume sod, on sl oping land oping land
and on highly erosive soils. and on highly erosive soils.
„„
Use crop rotations that promote healthier crops . Use crop rotations that promote healthier crops .
„„
Try to grow a deep Try to grow a deep--rooted crop, such as alfalfa, safflower, or sunflower as rooted crop, such as alfalfa, safflower, or sunflower as
part of the rotation. part of the rotation.
„„
Grow some crops that will leave a significant amount of residues Grow some crops that will leave a significant amount of residues , like , like
sorghum or corn harvested for grai n, to help maintain organic ma sorghum or corn harvested for grai n, to help maintain organic ma tter levels. tter levels.
„„
Follow a legume Follow a legume--sod crop with a high sod crop with a high--nitrogen nitrogen--demanding crop such as demanding crop such as
corn to take advantage of the nitrogen supply. corn to take advantage of the nitrogen supply.
„„
Grow less Grow less--nitrogen nitrogen--demanding crops such as oats, barley, or wheat in the demanding crops such as oats, barley, or wheat in the
second or third year after a legume sod. second or third year after a legume sod.
„„
Grow the same annual crop for onl y one year if possible to decre Grow the same annual crop for onl y one year if possible to decre ase the ase the
likelihood of insects, diseases , and nematodes becoming a proble likelihood of insects, diseases , and nematodes becoming a proble m.m.
„„
Don't follow one crop with anot her closely related species, sinc Don't follow one crop with anot her closely related species, sinc e insects, e insects,
disease, and nematode problems are frequently shared by members disease, and nematode problems are frequently shared by members of of
closely related crops. closely related crops.
„„
Use longer periods of perennial cr ops, such as legume sod, on sl Use longer periods of perennial cr ops, such as legume sod, on sl oping land oping land
and on highly erosive soils. and on highly erosive soils.
„„
Use crop rotations that promote healthier crops . Use crop rotations that promote healthier crops .
„„
Try to grow a deep Try to grow a deep--rooted crop, such as alfalfa, safflower, or sunflower as rooted crop, such as alfalfa, safflower, or sunflower as
part of the rotation. part of the rotation.
„„
Grow some crops that will leave a significant amount of residues Grow some crops that will leave a significant amount of residues , like , like
sorghum or corn harvested for grai n, to help maintain organic ma sorghum or corn harvested for grai n, to help maintain organic ma tter levels. tter levels.
Ecological Weed Management Ecological Weed Management
„„
Improve soil tilth, aeration, water infiltration, and fertility Improve soil tilth, aeration, water infiltration, and fertility to to
optimize crop growth and minimize weed pressure. optimize crop growth and minimize weed pressure.
„„
Thoroughly clean equipment before moving it from one farm Thoroughly clean equipment before moving it from one farm
or location to another to avoid transporting weed seeds from or location to another to avoid transporting weed seeds from
infested fields. infested fields.
„„
Do not allow weeds to form seed heads and/or perennial Do not allow weeds to form seed heads and/or perennial
rooting structure in the cropping systems. rooting structure in the cropping systems.
„„
Thoroughly compost all imported animal manure to insure Thoroughly compost all imported animal manure to insure
destruction of viable weed seed. destruction of viable weed seed.
„„
Work with neighbors to eliminate or Work with neighbors to eliminate or
minimize the potential for spread of noxious minimize the potential for spread of noxious
and problematic weeds from adjacent lands. and problematic weeds from adjacent lands.
„„
Improve soil tilth, aeration, water infiltration, and fertility Improve soil tilth, aeration, water infiltration, and fertility to to
optimize crop growth and minimize weed pressure. optimize crop growth and minimize weed pressure.
„„
Thoroughly clean equipment before moving it from one farm Thoroughly clean equipment before moving it from one farm
or location to another to avoid transporting weed seeds from or location to another to avoid transporting weed seeds from
infested fields. infested fields.
„„
Do not allow weeds to form seed heads and/or perennial Do not allow weeds to form seed heads and/or perennial
rooting structure in the cropping systems. rooting structure in the cropping systems.
„„
Thoroughly compost all imported animal manure to insure Thoroughly compost all imported animal manure to insure
destruction of viable weed seed. destruction of viable weed seed.
„„
Work with neighbors to eliminate or Work with neighbors to eliminate or
minimize the potential for spread of noxious minimize the potential for spread of noxious
and problematic weeds from adjacent lands. and problematic weeds from adjacent lands.
Cultural Weed Practices Cultural Weed Practices
„„
Crop Rotations Crop Rotations
„„
Tillage Tillage
„„
Planting and Cultivation Planting and Cultivation
„„
Rotational Grazing Rotational Grazing
„„
Mowing Mowing
„„
Irrigation Irrigation
„„
Flame Weeding Flame Weeding
„„
Mulches Mulches
„„
Crop Rotations Crop Rotations
„„
Tillage Tillage
„„
Planting and Cultivation Planting and Cultivation
„„
Rotational Grazing Rotational Grazing
„„
Mowing Mowing
„„
Irrigation Irrigation
„„
Flame Weeding Flame Weeding
„„
Mulches Mulches
Allis Chalmers Basket Allis Chalmers Basket Weeder Weeder
Ecological Pest Management Ecological Pest Management
„„
Intercropping, diversity Intercropping, diversity
and cover cropping and cover cropping „„
Crop rotation Crop rotation
„„
Farmscaping Farmscaping
„„
Use of Use of
resistant resistant
varieties varieties
„„
Intercropping, diversity Intercropping, diversity
and cover cropping and cover cropping „„
Crop rotation Crop rotation
„„
Farmscaping Farmscaping
„„
Use of Use of
resistant resistant
varieties varieties
Ecological Pest Management Ecological Pest Management
„„
Biological controls Biological controls
„„
Organic chemical controls Organic chemical controls
„„
Physical controls Physical controls
„„
Biological controls Biological controls
„„
Organic chemical controls Organic chemical controls
„„
Physical controls Physical controls
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
„„
Basic framework used to decide when and how pests Basic framework used to decide when and how pests
are controlled. are controlled.
„„
Goal is to give growers management guidelines in Goal is to give growers management guidelines in
order to make pest control economic and order to make pest control economic and
environmental. environmental.
„„
Integrates habitat modification and cultural, physical, Integrates habitat modification and cultural, physical,
biological and chemical practices to minimize crop biological and chemical practices to minimize crop
losses. losses.
„„
Monitoring, record keeping, and life Monitoring, record keeping, and life --cycle cycle
information about pests and their natural enemies are information about pests and their natural enemies are
used to determine which control measures are used to determine which control measures are
necessary. necessary.
„„
Basic framework used to decide when and how pests Basic framework used to decide when and how pests
are controlled. are controlled.
„„
Goal is to give growers management guidelines in Goal is to give growers management guidelines in
order to make pest control economic and order to make pest control economic and
environmental. environmental.
„„
Integrates habitat modification and cultural, physical, Integrates habitat modification and cultural, physical,
biological and chemical practices to minimize crop biological and chemical practices to minimize crop
losses. losses.
„„
Monitoring, record keeping, and life Monitoring, record keeping, and life --cycle cycle
information about pests and their natural enemies are information about pests and their natural enemies are
used to determine which control measures are used to determine which control measures are
necessary. necessary.
Plant Disease Manipulations Plant Disease Manipulations
„„
Environment manipulations include increasing plant Environment manipulations include increasing plant
spacing to reduce humidity, regulating irrigation, and spacing to reduce humidity, regulating irrigation, and
choosing where crop is grown. choosing where crop is grown.
„„
Host manipulations include resistant cultivars, Host manipulations include resistant cultivars,
pathogen pathogen--free planting materials, crop rotation and free planting materials, crop rotation and
intercropping. intercropping.
„„
Pathogen manipulations include keeping them out of Pathogen manipulations include keeping them out of
the field by removal of host tissue or organic the field by removal of host tissue or organic
chemical controls ( chemical controls (neem neem, copper, sulfur etc.) , copper, sulfur etc.)
„„
Environment manipulations include increasing plant Environment manipulations include increasing plant
spacing to reduce humidity, regulating irrigation, and spacing to reduce humidity, regulating irrigation, and
choosing where crop is grown. choosing where crop is grown.
„„
Host manipulations include resistant cultivars, Host manipulations include resistant cultivars,
pathogen pathogen--free planting materials, crop rotation and free planting materials, crop rotation and
intercropping. intercropping.
„„
Pathogen manipulations include keeping them out of Pathogen manipulations include keeping them out of
the field by removal of host tissue or organic the field by removal of host tissue or organic
chemical controls ( chemical controls (neem neem, copper, sulfur etc.) , copper, sulfur etc.)
Plant Disease Management Plant Disease Management
„„
Use crop rotations, biodiversity, resistant cultivars, clean Use crop rotations, biodiversity, resistant cultivars, clean
seed and soil fertility measures to prevent plant diseases. seed and soil fertility measures to prevent plant diseases. „„
Compost teas can help control Compost teas can help control
fungal diseases. Foliar sprays fungal diseases. Foliar sprays
are also effective. are also effective.
„„
Use crop rotations, biodiversity, resistant cultivars, clean Use crop rotations, biodiversity, resistant cultivars, clean
seed and soil fertility measures to prevent plant diseases. seed and soil fertility measures to prevent plant diseases. „„
Compost teas can help control Compost teas can help control
fungal diseases. Foliar sprays fungal diseases. Foliar sprays
are also effective. are also effective.
Rotational Grazing Rotational Grazing
„
Skillfully using livestock to harvest forages leads to improved soil fertility,
a diverse, dense, and useful past ure ecology, and an extended grazing
season. Fertile soil and productive pastures, in turn, support healthy
animals.
„
In a system of controlled rotatio ns, pastures are subdivided into
paddocks – fenced acreage of any given size. Livestock is moved
between paddocks at frequent inte rvals, giving animals access toa
limited pasture area over a short period of time.
„
As a result, the plants have time to
recover, the roots maintain energy
reserves, and the livestock always
have high quality forage.
„
A primary strategy of controlled
grazing is to use fencing and livestock
movement as tools to manage forage
growth and protect it from
overgrazing.
„
Skillfully using livestock to harvest forages leads to improved soil fertility,
a diverse, dense, and useful past ure ecology, and an extended grazing
season. Fertile soil and productive pastures, in turn, support healthy
animals.
„
In a system of controlled rotatio ns, pastures are subdivided into
paddocks – fenced acreage of any given size. Livestock is moved
between paddocks at frequent inte rvals, giving animals access toa
limited pasture area over a short period of time.
„
As a result, the plants have time to
recover, the roots maintain energy
reserves, and the livestock always
have high quality forage.
„
A primary strategy of controlled
grazing is to use fencing and livestock
movement as tools to manage forage
growth and protect it from
overgrazing.
Sustainable Pasture Management Sustainable Pasture Management
„„
Management is key to healthy and Management is key to healthy and
sustainable pastures. sustainable pastures.
„„
Lands most susceptible to erosion can be Lands most susceptible to erosion can be
maintained as permanent sod. maintained as permanent sod.
„„
Land used for row crops benefits from a year or more in pasture Land used for row crops benefits from a year or more in pasture as as
part of a crop rotation plan. part of a crop rotation plan.
„„
Soil health improves as the content of organic matter increases Soil health improves as the content of organic matter increases
under good grazing management. under good grazing management.
„„
Soil structure improves over time as Soil structure improves over time as
compaction and hardpan is reduced. compaction and hardpan is reduced.
„„
Good pasture mixes include a variety of Good pasture mixes include a variety of
grasses, forbs and legumes. grasses, forbs and legumes.
„„
Management is key to healthy and Management is key to healthy and
sustainable pastures. sustainable pastures.
„„
Lands most susceptible to erosion can be Lands most susceptible to erosion can be
maintained as permanent sod. maintained as permanent sod.
„„
Land used for row crops benefits from a year or more in pasture Land used for row crops benefits from a year or more in pasture as as
part of a crop rotation plan. part of a crop rotation plan.
„„
Soil health improves as the content of organic matter increases Soil health improves as the content of organic matter increases
under good grazing management. under good grazing management.
„„
Soil structure improves over time as Soil structure improves over time as
compaction and hardpan is reduced. compaction and hardpan is reduced.
„„
Good pasture mixes include a variety of Good pasture mixes include a variety of
grasses, forbs and legumes. grasses, forbs and legumes.
Mixed Species Grazing Mixed Species Grazing
„„
Cattle prefer grass over other types of plants, and are less Cattle prefer grass over other types of plants, and are less
selective when grazing than sheep or goats. Sheep and goats, selective when grazing than sheep or goats. Sheep and goats,
on the other hand, are much more likely to eat weeds. on the other hand, are much more likely to eat weeds.
„„
Mixed species grazing may also benefit Mixed species grazing may also benefit
pastures that are less diverse, by pastures that are less diverse, by
encouraging more even grazing. encouraging more even grazing.
„„
Parasite control. Parasite control.
„„
Cattle prefer grass over other types of plants, and are less Cattle prefer grass over other types of plants, and are less
selective when grazing than sheep or goats. Sheep and goats, selective when grazing than sheep or goats. Sheep and goats,
on the other hand, are much more likely to eat weeds. on the other hand, are much more likely to eat weeds.
„„
Mixed species grazing may also benefit Mixed species grazing may also benefit
pastures that are less diverse, by pastures that are less diverse, by
encouraging more even grazing. encouraging more even grazing.
„„
Parasite control. Parasite control.
Bringing It All Together: Bringing It All Together:
Integrated Farming Systems Integrated Farming Systems
„„
Goal is to find and adopt "integrated and resource Goal is to find and adopt "integrated and resource --efficient efficient
crop and livestock systems that maintain productivity, that are crop and livestock systems that maintain productivity, that are
profitable, and that protect the environment and the personal profitable, and that protect the environment and the personal
health of farmers and their fami lies," as well as "overcoming health of farmers and their fami lies," as well as "overcoming
the barriers to adoption of more sustainable agricultural the barriers to adoption of more sustainable agricultural
systems so these systems can serve as a foundation upon systems so these systems can serve as a foundation upon
which rural American communities will be revitalized." which rural American communities will be revitalized."
Integrated Farming Systems Integrated Farming Systems
„„
Goal is to find and adopt "integrated and resource Goal is to find and adopt "integrated and resource --efficient efficient
crop and livestock systems that maintain productivity, that are crop and livestock systems that maintain productivity, that are
profitable, and that protect the environment and the personal profitable, and that protect the environment and the personal
health of farmers and their fami lies," as well as "overcoming health of farmers and their fami lies," as well as "overcoming
the barriers to adoption of more sustainable agricultural the barriers to adoption of more sustainable agricultural
systems so these systems can serve as a foundation upon systems so these systems can serve as a foundation upon
which rural American communities will be revitalized." which rural American communities will be revitalized."
Organic Certification Organic Certification
„„
All producers who would like to certify must follow organic All producers who would like to certify must follow organic
standards set out by USDA. standards set out by USDA.
„„
There are a number of rules to follow, but the principles laid There are a number of rules to follow, but the principles laid
out today should directly follow that of organic production. out today should directly follow that of organic production.
„„
In general, organic rules do not allow synthetic fertilizers, In general, organic rules do not allow synthetic fertilizers,
pesticides or herbicides in crop production or the use pesticides or herbicides in crop production or the use
antibiotics, hormones and non antibiotics, hormones and non --organic feed in livestock. organic feed in livestock.
Livestock must also have access to pasture. Livestock must also have access to pasture.
„„
For more information on how to certify, go to For more information on how to certify, go to
http:// http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop www.ams.usda.gov/nop/ or talk with me individually. / or talk with me individually.
Oregon Oregon Tilth Tilthis also a source of information: is also a source of information: www.tilth.org www.tilth.org..
„„
All producers who would like to certify must follow organic All producers who would like to certify must follow organic
standards set out by USDA. standards set out by USDA.
„„
There are a number of rules to follow, but the principles laid There are a number of rules to follow, but the principles laid
out today should directly follow that of organic production. out today should directly follow that of organic production.
„„
In general, organic rules do not allow synthetic fertilizers, In general, organic rules do not allow synthetic fertilizers,
pesticides or herbicides in crop production or the use pesticides or herbicides in crop production or the use
antibiotics, hormones and non antibiotics, hormones and non --organic feed in livestock. organic feed in livestock.
Livestock must also have access to pasture. Livestock must also have access to pasture.
„„
For more information on how to certify, go to For more information on how to certify, go to
http:// http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop www.ams.usda.gov/nop/ or talk with me individually. / or talk with me individually.
Oregon Oregon Tilth Tilthis also a source of information: is also a source of information: www.tilth.org www.tilth.org..
Case Studies Case Studies
„„
Blue Fox Farm, Applegate, Oregon Blue Fox Farm, Applegate, Oregon
„„
Six acres of over fifty different types of organic Six acres of over fifty different types of organic
vegetables vegetables
„„
Active soil fertility program including using raw and Active soil fertility program including using raw and
pelleted pelletedchicken manure, winter and summer cover chicken manure, winter and summer cover
cropping, and active crop rotations. cropping, and active crop rotations.
„„
Weed management includes mechanical and hand Weed management includes mechanical and hand
cultivation and mowing. cultivation and mowing.
„„
Use botanical sprays for dis ease and pest suppression as Use botanical sprays for dis ease and pest suppression as
well as crop rotations. well as crop rotations.
„„
Blue Fox Farm, Applegate, Oregon Blue Fox Farm, Applegate, Oregon
„„
Six acres of over fifty different types of organic Six acres of over fifty different types of organic
vegetables vegetables
„„
Active soil fertility program including using raw and Active soil fertility program including using raw and
pelleted pelletedchicken manure, winter and summer cover chicken manure, winter and summer cover
cropping, and active crop rotations. cropping, and active crop rotations.
„„
Weed management includes mechanical and hand Weed management includes mechanical and hand
cultivation and mowing. cultivation and mowing.
„„
Use botanical sprays for dis ease and pest suppression as Use botanical sprays for dis ease and pest suppression as
well as crop rotations. well as crop rotations.
Blue Fox Farm Blue Fox Farm
„„
Direct market to a thirty Direct market to a thirty --person CSA, two farmers person CSA, two farmers’’markets, a markets, a
number of restaurants and the local natural food groceries. number of restaurants and the local natural food groceries.
„„
Direct market to a thirty Direct market to a thirty --person CSA, two farmers person CSA, two farmers’’markets, a markets, a
number of restaurants and the local natural food groceries. number of restaurants and the local natural food groceries.
Larry Thompson Larry Thompson——Boring, Oregon Boring, Oregon
„„
43 fruit and vegetable crops on 140 acres. 43 fruit and vegetable crops on 140 acres.
„„
Dedicated advocate of crop rotations and planting a succession Dedicated advocate of crop rotations and planting a succession
of flowering species to control pests without pesticides. He of flowering species to control pests without pesticides. He
relies on cover crops to control weeds and provide habitat for relies on cover crops to control weeds and provide habitat for
beneficial insects. beneficial insects.
„„
Direct markets through farm stand, farmers markets and pick Direct markets through farm stand, farmers markets and pick --
your your--own. own.
„„
43 fruit and vegetable crops on 140 acres. 43 fruit and vegetable crops on 140 acres.
„„
Dedicated advocate of crop rotations and planting a succession Dedicated advocate of crop rotations and planting a succession
of flowering species to control pests without pesticides. He of flowering species to control pests without pesticides. He
relies on cover crops to control weeds and provide habitat for relies on cover crops to control weeds and provide habitat for
beneficial insects. beneficial insects.
„„
Direct markets through farm stand, farmers markets and pick Direct markets through farm stand, farmers markets and pick --
your your--own. own.
More on Larry Thompson More on Larry Thompson
„
Thompson allows native grasses and
dandelions to grow between his berry rows.
The mixed vegetation provides an alluring
habitat that, along with flowering fruit and
vegetable plants, draws insects that prey on
pests.
„
Thompson allows native grasses and
dandelions to grow between his berry rows.
The mixed vegetation provides an alluring
habitat that, along with flowering fruit and
vegetable plants, draws insects that prey on
pests.
Bob Bob Muth Muth, Williamstown, New , Williamstown, New
Jersey Jersey
„
11 acres in mixed vegetables and cut flowers
„
Three-quarters of an acre in strawberries sold
from a roadside stand
„
40 acres of hay
„
The farm grosses between $150,000 and $300,000.
Jersey Jersey
„
11 acres in mixed vegetables and cut flowers
„
Three-quarters of an acre in strawberries sold
from a roadside stand
„
40 acres of hay
„
The farm grosses between $150,000 and $300,000.
Muth MuthFarm Farm
„„
Muth Muthdesigns long rotations and makes extensive use of cover designs long rotations and makes extensive use of cover
crops. Only about 20 percent of his 80 acres is in vegetable crops. Only about 20 percent of his 80 acres is in vegetable
crops at any one time. He also adds extra organic matter by crops at any one time. He also adds extra organic matter by
spreading the leaves collected by local municipalities on some spreading the leaves collected by local municipalities on some
of his fields each autumn. of his fields each autumn.
„„
In a typical rotation, after the vegetable crop is turned under In a typical rotation, after the vegetable crop is turned under in in
the fall, he covers the ground with up to six inches of leaves, the fall, he covers the ground with up to six inches of leaves,
about 20 tons per acre. The following spring, he works in the about 20 tons per acre. The following spring, he works in the
decomposing leaves. His soil decomposing leaves. His soil --building program has now given building program has now given
him fields that test as high as 5 percent organic matter, him fields that test as high as 5 percent organic matter,
unheard of for the mineral soils of southern New Jersey. unheard of for the mineral soils of southern New Jersey.
„„
Muth Muthdesigns long rotations and makes extensive use of cover designs long rotations and makes extensive use of cover
crops. Only about 20 percent of his 80 acres is in vegetable crops. Only about 20 percent of his 80 acres is in vegetable
crops at any one time. He also adds extra organic matter by crops at any one time. He also adds extra organic matter by
spreading the leaves collected by local municipalities on some spreading the leaves collected by local municipalities on some
of his fields each autumn. of his fields each autumn.
„„
In a typical rotation, after the vegetable crop is turned under In a typical rotation, after the vegetable crop is turned under in in
the fall, he covers the ground with up to six inches of leaves, the fall, he covers the ground with up to six inches of leaves,
about 20 tons per acre. The following spring, he works in the about 20 tons per acre. The following spring, he works in the
decomposing leaves. His soil decomposing leaves. His soil --building program has now given building program has now given
him fields that test as high as 5 percent organic matter, him fields that test as high as 5 percent organic matter,
unheard of for the mineral soils of southern New Jersey. unheard of for the mineral soils of southern New Jersey.
Richard and Peggy Richard and Peggy Sechrist Sechrist
Fredericksburg, Texas Fredericksburg, Texas
„„
5050--head beef cattle herd head beef cattle herd
„„
750750--1,000 pastured chickens per month 1,000 pastured chickens per month
„„
Certified organic beef and poultry sold to "natural Certified organic beef and poultry sold to "natural
foods" outlets foods" outlets
„„
The The Sechrists Sechristswork within the work within the
dry cycles by maintaining their dry cycles by maintaining their
pastures in native grasses. They pastures in native grasses. They
graze three herds of cattle graze three herds of cattle --oneone--
year year--olds, two olds, two--year year--olds and a olds and a
cowcow--calf herd calf herd --in a planned in a planned
rotational approach. rotational approach.
Fredericksburg, Texas Fredericksburg, Texas
„„
5050--head beef cattle herd head beef cattle herd
„„
750750--1,000 pastured chickens per month 1,000 pastured chickens per month
„„
Certified organic beef and poultry sold to "natural Certified organic beef and poultry sold to "natural
foods" outlets foods" outlets
„„
The The Sechrists Sechristswork within the work within the
dry cycles by maintaining their dry cycles by maintaining their
pastures in native grasses. They pastures in native grasses. They
graze three herds of cattle graze three herds of cattle --oneone--
year year--olds, two olds, two--year year--olds and a olds and a
cowcow--calf herd calf herd --in a planned in a planned
rotational approach. rotational approach.
More on the More on the Sechrists Sechrists
„„
Rotating the herds is based on a fairly sophisticated system of Rotating the herds is based on a fairly sophisticated system of
monitoring plant growth and recovery. The cattle are grass monitoring plant growth and recovery. The cattle are grass --
fed, with alfalfa hay as needed as a supplement. The cattle fed, with alfalfa hay as needed as a supplement. The cattle
don't receive any antibiotics or synthetic treatments. don't receive any antibiotics or synthetic treatments.
„„
Market beef and poultry through Homestead Healthy Foods, a Market beef and poultry through Homestead Healthy Foods, a
direct marketing company that sells at farmers markets direct marketing company that sells at farmers markets ’’, fairs, , fairs,
over the internet, and health food stores. over the internet, and health food stores.
„„
"Our basic herd health is excellent," Peggy says, "Our basic herd health is excellent," Peggy says, “…“…our our
pasture management is the most important factor." pasture management is the most important factor."
„„
Rotating the herds is based on a fairly sophisticated system of Rotating the herds is based on a fairly sophisticated system of
monitoring plant growth and recovery. The cattle are grass monitoring plant growth and recovery. The cattle are grass --
fed, with alfalfa hay as needed as a supplement. The cattle fed, with alfalfa hay as needed as a supplement. The cattle
don't receive any antibiotics or synthetic treatments. don't receive any antibiotics or synthetic treatments.
„„
Market beef and poultry through Homestead Healthy Foods, a Market beef and poultry through Homestead Healthy Foods, a
direct marketing company that sells at farmers markets direct marketing company that sells at farmers markets ’’, fairs, , fairs,
over the internet, and health food stores. over the internet, and health food stores.
„„
"Our basic herd health is excellent," Peggy says, "Our basic herd health is excellent," Peggy says, “…“…our our
pasture management is the most important factor." pasture management is the most important factor."
Travis and Amy Travis and Amy Forgues Forgues
Alburg AlburgSprings, Vermont Springs, Vermont
„„
80 milking cows on 220 80 milking cows on 220--acre pasture acre pasture--based, organic dairy farm based, organic dairy farm
„„
Their property is split into 10 Their property is split into 10 --acre acre
permanent paddocks, using movable fences permanent paddocks, using movable fences
to subdivide those into smaller areas. They to subdivide those into smaller areas. They
move the herd to fresh ground twice a day. move the herd to fresh ground twice a day.
„„
They are part of Organic Valley, a farmer They are part of Organic Valley, a farmer --owned owned
cooperative that accepts milk from farmers in 14 cooperative that accepts milk from farmers in 14
states, marketing the product by region. states, marketing the product by region.
„„
They strive to receive 23 cents a pound for milk, a strategy Tra They strive to receive 23 cents a pound for milk, a strategy Tra vis calls vis calls
"farm "farm--gate" pricing, or fair compensa tion for their labor. By contrast gate" pricing, or fair compensa tion for their labor. By contrast , the , the
industry average for milk produced and marketed conventionally i industry average for milk produced and marketed conventionally i s about s about
half that. half that.
„„
As a certified organic operation, the As a certified organic operation, the Forgues Forguesforego any chemical pesticides or forego any chemical pesticides or
fertilizers. They eschew hormones or antibiotics, and take a pro fertilizers. They eschew hormones or antibiotics, and take a pro active approach active approach
to sick cows, culling them quic kly if a homeopathic remedy doesn to sick cows, culling them quic kly if a homeopathic remedy doesn 't work. 't work.
Alburg AlburgSprings, Vermont Springs, Vermont
„„
80 milking cows on 220 80 milking cows on 220--acre pasture acre pasture--based, organic dairy farm based, organic dairy farm
„„
Their property is split into 10 Their property is split into 10 --acre acre
permanent paddocks, using movable fences permanent paddocks, using movable fences
to subdivide those into smaller areas. They to subdivide those into smaller areas. They
move the herd to fresh ground twice a day. move the herd to fresh ground twice a day.
„„
They are part of Organic Valley, a farmer They are part of Organic Valley, a farmer --owned owned
cooperative that accepts milk from farmers in 14 cooperative that accepts milk from farmers in 14
states, marketing the product by region. states, marketing the product by region.
„„
They strive to receive 23 cents a pound for milk, a strategy Tra They strive to receive 23 cents a pound for milk, a strategy Tra vis calls vis calls
"farm "farm--gate" pricing, or fair compensa tion for their labor. By contrast gate" pricing, or fair compensa tion for their labor. By contrast , the , the
industry average for milk produced and marketed conventionally i industry average for milk produced and marketed conventionally i s about s about
half that. half that.
„„
As a certified organic operation, the As a certified organic operation, the Forgues Forguesforego any chemical pesticides or forego any chemical pesticides or
fertilizers. They eschew hormones or antibiotics, and take a pro fertilizers. They eschew hormones or antibiotics, and take a pro active approach active approach
to sick cows, culling them quic kly if a homeopathic remedy doesn to sick cows, culling them quic kly if a homeopathic remedy doesn 't work. 't work.
Sources of Information for New Sources of Information for New
Farmers Farmers
„„
Alternative Farming Systems Information Alternative Farming Systems Information
Center Center ––http:// http://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic www.nal.usda.gov/afsic//
„„
ATTRA ATTRA ––www.attra.org www.attra.org
„„
SARE SARE ––www.sare.org www.sare.org
„„
Oregon Small Farms Oregon Small Farms ––
http:// http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu smallfarms.oregonstate.edu//
„„
OFRF OFRF ––www.ofrf.org www.ofrf.org
„„
The New Farm The New Farm ––http:// http://www.newfarm.org www.newfarm.org
Farmers Farmers
„„
Alternative Farming Systems Information Alternative Farming Systems Information
Center Center ––http:// http://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic www.nal.usda.gov/afsic//
„„
ATTRA ATTRA ––www.attra.org www.attra.org
„„
SARE SARE ––www.sare.org www.sare.org
„„
Oregon Small Farms Oregon Small Farms ––
http:// http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu smallfarms.oregonstate.edu//
„„
OFRF OFRF ––www.ofrf.org www.ofrf.org
„„
The New Farm The New Farm ––http:// http://www.newfarm.org www.newfarm.org
Good Books Good Books
„„
Holistic Management: A New Framework for Decision Making Holistic Management: A New Framework for Decision Making, Allan , Allan
Savory et al. Savory et al.
„„
Sustainable Vegetable Production from Start Sustainable Vegetable Production from Start --up to Market up to Market, Vernon , Vernon
Grubinger Grubinger
„„
Small Small--Scale Livestock Farming: A Grass Scale Livestock Farming: A Grass --Based Approach for Health, Based Approach for Health,
Sustainability, and Profit Sustainability, and Profit , Carol , Carol Ekarius Ekarius
„„
Successful Small Successful Small--Scale Farming: An Organic Approach Scale Farming: An Organic Approach, Karl , Karl Schwenke Schwenke
„„
Pastured Poultry Profits Pastured Poultry Profits , Joel , Joel Salatin Salatin
„„
Sell What You Sow! The Grower Sell What You Sow! The Grower’’s Guide to Successful Produce Marketing s Guide to Successful Produce Marketing , ,
Eric Gibson Eric Gibson
„„
Pests of the Garden and Small Farm Pests of the Garden and Small Farm , Mary Louise Flint , Mary Louise Flint
„„
Natural Enemies Handbook: The Illu stration Guide to Pest Control Natural Enemies Handbook: The Illu stration Guide to Pest Control , Mary , Mary
Louise Flint, et al. Louise Flint, et al.
„„
Backyard Market Gardening: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Selling W Backyard Market Gardening: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Selling W hat hat
You Sow You Sow, Andrew Lee , Andrew Lee
„„
Holistic Management: A New Framework for Decision Making Holistic Management: A New Framework for Decision Making, Allan , Allan
Savory et al. Savory et al.
„„
Sustainable Vegetable Production from Start Sustainable Vegetable Production from Start --up to Market up to Market, Vernon , Vernon
Grubinger Grubinger
„„
Small Small--Scale Livestock Farming: A Grass Scale Livestock Farming: A Grass --Based Approach for Health, Based Approach for Health,
Sustainability, and Profit Sustainability, and Profit , Carol , Carol Ekarius Ekarius
„„
Successful Small Successful Small--Scale Farming: An Organic Approach Scale Farming: An Organic Approach, Karl , Karl Schwenke Schwenke
„„
Pastured Poultry Profits Pastured Poultry Profits , Joel , Joel Salatin Salatin
„„
Sell What You Sow! The Grower Sell What You Sow! The Grower’’s Guide to Successful Produce Marketing s Guide to Successful Produce Marketing , ,
Eric Gibson Eric Gibson
„„
Pests of the Garden and Small Farm Pests of the Garden and Small Farm , Mary Louise Flint , Mary Louise Flint
„„
Natural Enemies Handbook: The Illu stration Guide to Pest Control Natural Enemies Handbook: The Illu stration Guide to Pest Control , Mary , Mary
Louise Flint, et al. Louise Flint, et al.
„„
Backyard Market Gardening: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Selling W Backyard Market Gardening: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Selling W hat hat
You Sow You Sow, Andrew Lee , Andrew Lee
Periodicals Periodicals
„„
Small Farmer Small Farmer’’s Journal s Journal
http:// http://www.smallfarmersjournal.com www.smallfarmersjournal.com// „„
Growing For Market Growing For Market
http:// http://www.growingformarket.com www.growingformarket.com//
„„
Small Farm Today Small Farm Today http:// http://www.smallfarmtoday.com www.smallfarmtoday.com//
„„
In Good In Good Tilth Tilthhttp:// http://www.tilth.org/Newsletter.html www.tilth.org/Newsletter.html
„„
Stockman Grass Farmer Stockman Grass Farmer http://stockmangrassfarmer.net/ http://stockmangrassfarmer.net/
„„
ACRES USA ACRES USA
http:// http://www.acresusa.com www.acresusa.com
„„
Capital Press Capital Press http://www.capitalpress.com http://www.capitalpress.com
„„
Small Farmer Small Farmer’’s Journal s Journal
http:// http://www.smallfarmersjournal.com www.smallfarmersjournal.com// „„
Growing For Market Growing For Market
http:// http://www.growingformarket.com www.growingformarket.com//
„„
Small Farm Today Small Farm Today http:// http://www.smallfarmtoday.com www.smallfarmtoday.com//
„„
In Good In Good Tilth Tilthhttp:// http://www.tilth.org/Newsletter.html www.tilth.org/Newsletter.html
„„
Stockman Grass Farmer Stockman Grass Farmer http://stockmangrassfarmer.net/ http://stockmangrassfarmer.net/
„„
ACRES USA ACRES USA
http:// http://www.acresusa.com www.acresusa.com
„„
Capital Press Capital Press http://www.capitalpress.com http://www.capitalpress.com
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