Organic agriculture seeks to raise crops and livestock using natural practices.
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In the 1990 Farm Bill, the Organic Foods Production Act invested the U.S. Department of Agriculture with the power to set up a National Organic Program that determines the standards that organic food producers must meet and enforces compliance with those regulations. Organic agriculture standards apply to plant- as well as animal-based farming. (See References 1)
Organic Philosophy
In 1995, the USDA's National Organic Standards Board defined organic agriculture as practices aimed at promoting the health of the whole ecosystem rather than a single crop or livestock animal within that system. Organic practices, according to the NOSB, should increase biodiversity, respect biological processes, improve soil quality and make minimal use of off-farm inputs, all with the ultimate goal of improving ecological health. These ideas guide organic agriculture regulations. (See References 1)
Fertilizers and Pesticides
With few exceptions, the National Organic Program forbids the use of synthetic products in fertilizers and pesticides. Instead, organic regulations require farmers to use soil fertility management practices that enhance soil health without harmful contaminants. Organic standards permit the use of plant- and animal-based fertilizers, including manures, ash and cover crops, as well as some minerals. The program encourages crop rotation. Sewage sludge and biosolids are not permitted. (See References 2) For pest control, regulations encourage prevention of problems through crop rotation and plant and soil health. To control pests, organic farmers may use beneficial insects and biological controls; non-synthetic lures, traps and repellents; mechanical removal; burning; and non-synthetic biological, botanical and mineral products. (See References 3)
Organic Seeds
Organic farmers must use organic seeds or plants unless no organic alternative exists, in which case they may use conventionally grown seeds and plants. Perennial crops labeled as organic, such as fruit trees or asparagus, must have been maintained using organic methods for at least one year. (See References 4)
Livestock Feed and Care
The feed given to organically raised livestock must also meet certification standards. Organic livestock feed cannot contain growth hormones, antibiotics, manure, slaughter byproducts or plastics. Feed supplements and additives are permitted only if needed to maintain the animal's health at that point in its life cycle. Cattle must be grazed throughout the entire grazing season, totaling at least 120 days. (See References 5) Livestock must also have outdoor access, space to move around and the ability to carry out natural behaviors. Brief confinement is permitted for inclement weather, care and breeding, illness, milking or shearing, shows and sales. The farm must manage all animals' manure in such a way that it poses no risk to the ecosystem. (See References 6)
- U.S. Department of Agriculture: Organic Production and Organic Food; June 2007
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations: National Organic Program --- Soil Fertility and Crop Nutrient Management Practice Standard
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations: National Organic Program --- Crop Pest, Weed, and Disease Management Practice Standard
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations: National Organic Program --- Seeds and Planting Stock Practice Standard
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations: National Organic Program --- Livestock Feed; December 21, 2000
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations: National Organic Program --- Livestock Living Conditions; December 21, 2000
First published in 2000, Dawn Walls-Thumma has served as an editor for "Bartleby" and "Antithesis Common" literary magazines. Walls-Thumma writes about education, gardening and sustainable living. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and writing from University of Maryland and is a graduate student in humanities at American Public University.
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