Showing papers on "Organic farming published in 1987"

Long-term effects of organic and conventional farming on soil erosion

Abstract: Conventional, intensive tillage farming systems have greatly increased crop production and labour efficiency But, serious questions are being raised about the energy-intensive nature of these systems and their adverse effects on soil productivity and environmental quality1,2 This concern has led to an increasing interest in organic farming systems because they may reduce some of the negative effects of conventional agriculture on the environment3,4 We compare the long-term effects (since 1948) of organic and conventional farming on selected properties of the same soil The organically-farmed soil had significantly higher organic matter content, thicker topsoil depth, higher polysaccharide content, lower modulus of rupture and less soil erosion than the conventionally-farmed soil This study indicates that, in the long term, the organic farming system was more effective than the conventional farming system in reducing soil erosion and, therefore, in maintaining soil productivity

The Role of Organic Matter in Modern Agriculture

Abstract: The use of organic residues as a means of maintaining and increasing soil fertility is of long-standing. This tradition has been somewhat neglected since the introduc tion of mineral fertilizers at low cost. More and more farmers and scientists are now showing renewed interest in the proper and effective use of org tnic residues, composts and other recycled organic additives. The role and function of organic amendments in modern agricultural systems have become topics of major interest in the scientific and agricultural communities. Research work on residue disposal has provided new concepts on the interaction between organic components and soils as well as new handling technologies (e. g. pelletizing of organic residues). The trend to conserve energy has led scientists to study the minimal tillage system, to find ways of replacing conventional inorganic fertilizers with natural organic prod ucts or microbial preparations, and to develop new composting methods. The drive to achieve higher yields in commercial greenhouse farming has led to a search for optimum substrates as growth media and for improved management techniques. This has led to the introduction of organic substitutes for peat, nota bly those originating from agricultural wastes. Another important aspect is the current interest in organic farming, where use of synthetic chemicals is avoided or prohibited. An increasing percentage of the population in highly developed countries is willing to pay premium prices for food produced on soils where inorganic fertilizers and other agricultural chemicals have not been used."

Midwestern organic farming: A ten-year follow-up

Abstract: A mailed survey was sent to 174 Midwestern organic farmers originally studied in 1977. We obtained information on 133 of this group, 96 of whom are still farming at the same location, although 12 no longer use organic methods. Fifty-eight currently active farmers returned a detailed questionnaire that covered their perceptions of the advantages and disadvantages of organic farming, some of their practices, and their financial status. Most farmers who employed organic farming methods stated they did so out of concern for the health of themselves, their families, and their livestock. Compared to ten years ago, philosophical or religious considerations were less frequently mentioned as an advantage of organic farming. In contrast, some agronomic and management disadvantages of organic f arming were mentioned more often. The farmers now are more tolerant, in principle, of some chemicals not generally accepted in organic farming, but regular use of soluble fertilizers and synthetic pesticides has not increased appreciably. The farmers reported little change in the institutional and social environment for organic agriculture, including available markets, information sources, and the attitudes of their neighbors.

Towards Holistic Agriculture: A Scientific Approach

Abstract: Introduction. Soil and Cultivations: Mineral fraction Organic matter. Symbiotic fixation. Conversion of organic nitrogen to nitrate. Ethylene cycle. Bulk density of soil. Soil reconditioning tools. Keyline cultivation. Sources of Plant Nutrients: Fertilizers. Macro nutrients. Micro nutrients. Organic fertilizers. Mineral fertilizers. Plant nutrient loss. Pests and Diseases: Weeds. Pests. Plant diseases. Animal diseases. Fungicides and pesticides. Pesticides. Rotation and Crops. Grassland Management: General considerations. Establishment of grassland. Subsequent management. Seed mixtures. Grassland improvements. Animal Husbandry: Monogastrics. Ruminants. Animal Nutrition: Diets for monogastrics. Diets for ruminants. Some Other Considerations: Yield. Profitability. Food quality. Energy utilisation. Finite resources. Pollution and animal welfare. Labour usage. Epilogue. Appendix I. Appendix II. Appendix III. Index. 50 lit. refs., 13 illus.

Rushall: The Story of an Organic Farm

Abstract: In recent years interest in organic farming has increased dramatically, among farmers and the general public alike. Barry Wookey runs Rushall, one of the organic farms in the United Kingdom, and in this book he describes the conversion and day-to-day management of his 1650 acres. He argues that organic farming is not sentimental nonsense reserved for drop-outs or radicals, but that the organic farm of the 1980's is a modern, efficient enterprise, and a profitable and successful venture too. The book is at once a practical guide and a personal story, and contains much advice that has been learnt through bitter experience. This book contains illustrations.