12 May 2004

What is the scientific basis of organic farming? Where is the research that gives it credibility and helps to solve problems?

Resaearch undertaken now provides answers to questions like this posed by farmers and policy makers. A review of this research, with details of research institutions and their websites, has recently been updated in a report produced by the Research and Development Group of the Biodynamic Association.

The report emphasises that a successful organic farmer or grower farms the varied micro-organisms, worms and other life in their soil in the context of the whole surrounding landscape. How well you manage the soil life determines the productivity and health of crops, pasture and livestock.

The update discusses recent research on indicators for monitoring soil quality, on environmental effects of farming and comparisons of organic and soluble fertilizer systems. The report is particularly relevant for farmers, scientists and policy makers who want more information about organic dairy pasture and orchard soil management.

The report says an holistic, ecological approach is required for future research on soil-plant-animal systems in NZ. This, the report says, would enable a redesign of farming systems to develop high quality, internally regulated soil. This in turn would result in less mineral loss, less pest and disease pressure and less susceptibility to climate extremes. The need for further research on soil fertility measures such as mineral balancing and use of products such as humic acid, seaweed, and vermicast is highlighted.

Visit the Biodynamic Association website

www.biodynamic.org.nz to view & download the report.

Check out the Bio-Gro COnference 2004

Source: MAF Rural Bulletin May 04