Large Farm Adapts to Organic Techniques

Large Farm Adapts to Organic Techniques
A study appearing in the July 2008 issue of Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment documents how one large grower made the transition to organic production, says a story on Mongabay.com. Study author Sean Smukler of UC Davis tracked a Salinas Valley farmer's efforts to convert 215 acres of vegetable fields to organic production over three years. While small-scale organic producers typically grow small plots of each crop and use local or on-farm organic fertilizer sources, larger growers rely on different approaches. The grower in the study evolved a system using mid-size plots, a factory-made organic fish fertilizer, and plantings designed to attract beneficial insects, as well as crop rotations and hoeing.

New Study Finds Benefits in Drinking Organic Milk

New Study Finds Benefits in Drinking Organic Milk
In a new study, scientists found higher levels of vitamins, antioxidants and "healthy" fat in milk from organically farmed animals. The researchers believe that letting cows graze on fresh grass boosts the nutritional value of their milk. The benefits could include a lower risk of cancer and heart disease. The study, which analyzed produce from 25 farms, found that organic milk contained 67 per cent more antioxidants and vitamins than ordinary milk. Scientists at Newcastle University also found organic milk contained 60 per cent more of a healthy fatty acid called conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA9, which tests have shown can shrink tumors.

Farmers Advocating for Organics Fund

Image via WikipediaFarmers Advocating for Organics Fund

The Farmers Advocating for Organics (FAFO) fund provides a way for the organic farmers of CROPP Cooperative to identify and support key issues facing the organic marketplace and organic agriculture. The FAFO Farmer Committee accepts proposals from organizations seeking funding for particular projects or programs dedicated to furthering organic education, organic farming or product research, and advocating for organic standards or policies. FAFO is open to funding both small and large scale projects with a suggested budgetary guideline being $5,000 - $50,000 per year. In addition, FAFO has established a Small Grant Fund for individuals and organizations seeking grants that amount to less than $5,000. Small grant proposals will be reviewed monthly. There are two funding rounds in 2008, with proposal deadlines of June 1 and October

Online Courses Offered for Organic Agriculture Certificate

Image by Getty Images via DaylifeOnline Courses Offered for Organic Agriculture Certificate