Showing papers on "Organic farming published in 1991"

Consumer Attitudes to Organic Foods

Abstract: The apparent conflict between what is scientifically known and what is perceived concerning food acceptability by consumers provides an interesting paradox. Some of the leading international contributions concerned with organic farming system food products are thus reviewed in the light of consumer beliefs and attitudes. It is concluded that, in a market economy, consumer opinion will gradually prevail and that agricultural farming systems will have to adjust to more extensive lower input farming approaches.

Descriptive Analysis of Saskatchewan Organic Producers

Abstract: A total of 69 Saskatchewan organic producers were surveyed in the spring of 1991. Although Saskatchewan organic farming represents a move toward an alternative conventional system of agriculture it is not a complete reversal from conventional practices. Saskatchewan organic farmers are experimenting with highly integrated systems which incorporate green manure crops and soil testing and require high management and marketing skills. In a study of then-goals and objectives using fuzzy sets, environment and healthy food were ranked above farm survival. This leads to the conclusion that most organic farmers do not adopt organic practices based on purely economic criteria but on higher goals within their own hierarchy.

Organic Farming and Growing

Abstract: This book outlines the principles of organic agriculture, giving advice for those considering going organic, and step-by-step guide to conversion Various farm enterprises are examined, including protected cropping, intensive vegetables, fruit and livestock With further sections on soil care, manuring, nutrition, weed control, pests, diseases and marketing, this is a comprehensive practical guide for those starting out or considering organic farming

The potential for Swedish farms to eliminate the use of artificial fertilizers

Abstract: This paper discusses data on plant-nutrient conservation in Sweden between 1950 and 1980 and on plant-nutrient balances in conventional and alternative farming. The amounts of plant nutrients supplied in the form of artificial fertilizer in Sweden increased severalfold between 1950 and 1980. The amounts of N and P applied were four times higher than those recovered in agricultural products. This difference not only represents a loss to farmers but also a burden on the environment. This problem is a consequence of the increased separation of crop management from animal husbandry in Sweden. The flow of plant nutrients through the agroecosystem can be represented as follows: Artificial Fertilizers- > Crop Production-> Animal Husbandry- > Losses (air, water, or immobilization).This paper suggests that all farms in Sweden can operate effectively without relying on applications of highly soluble plant nutrients. By recirculating plant nutrients in manure and cultivating nitrogen-fixing species, the need for artificial fertilizers can be eliminated while minimizing nutrient losses and their associated adverse effects on the environment. Successful alternative farms provide practical examples of how a farming system can eliminate its dependence on applications of highly soluble plant nutrients by stressing effective nutrient economy and biological activity. The strategies they use include: matching animal management practices to the farm's own production of feed, thereby reducing net removal of plant nutrients per unit area (in Sweden 0.6–0.8 animal units per ha); minimizing nutrient losses through careful manure management and by using cover crops; and supplying N by nitrogen-fixing ley species, and P and K by soil weathering and by applying supplementary soil improvement materials.

A strategy for integrated low-input potato production

Abstract: Current systems of potato growing use large amounts of pesticides and fertilizers; these inputs are costly and cause environmental problems. In this paper a strategy for integrated low-input potato production is developed, with the aim of reducing costs, improving product quality and reducing environmental damage. The strategy involves suitable crop rotation, the use of cultivars with multiple resistance, modest fertilizer use (preferably based on organic manure), mechanical weed control, mechanical haulm destruction and limited use of pesticides. The prospects for this strategy are discussed.

An Update on Organic Farming and the Development of the Organic Industry in Australia

Abstract: In Australia, organic production has experienced a marked expansion during the 1980s. This has been characterised by increases in the numbers of organic farmers and marketing outlets, and areas under organic farming. Despite the growth in production, the demand for organic food is largely unmet. Growers have access to a greater range of marketing outlets but the market structure is still very fragmented. This factor, along with a number of producer problems, is affecting the industry's potential.