Organic Farming

As the human population has exploded during the past half century, agricultural production has been intensified through the abundant use of inorganic fertilizer, the practice of monoculture or two-crop rotations, and the liberal use of chemical pesticides. Some argue that such a system of production is not sustainable because it leads to degradation of the Earth's environment. They offer organic farming as an alternative. Undoubtedly, human survival depends on agricultural...
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As the human population has exploded during the past half century, agricultural production has been intensified through the abundant use of inorganic fertilizer, the practice of monoculture or two-crop rotations, and the liberal use of chemical pesticides. Some argue that such a system of production is not sustainable because it leads to degradation of the Earth's environment. They offer organic farming as an alternative. Undoubtedly, human survival depends on agricultural production being increased and the Earth's environment being sustained. Whether agriculture production will continue to employ the present intensive system, move to organic farming, or use a mix of the two, will have important overtones on the billions who will occupy the Earth in the next century and beyond.

In this special publication, most aspects of organic farming are discussed. Meeting crop N and other nutrient needs from organic sources is a major topic of discussion; reducing soil erosion and nutrient loss via rotations and minimal tillage are treated thoroughly; minimizing the use of chemical pesticides and decreasing energy inputs are subjects examined; and the economic impact and socio-political implications of organic farming are presented.