Project Number: 5305-21620-011-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Nov 08, 2003
End Date: Nov 07, 2008

Objective:
Develop viable organic farming management techniques for use in agricultural soils used for vegetable crop production. Characterize crop growth, yield, quality, disease, and insect pests in organic systems. Develop improved organic production practices for cool vegetable crops. Establish long-term studies to determine the cumulative effects of cover crops on weed suppression, soil quality, nutrient availability and yield in organic vegetable production systems.

Approach:
Organic production is increasing in the U.S., a response in part to public concerns about agricultural sustainability, food safety, & environmental quality. While farmers may consider moving to an organic system, continuity of economic viability during the transition from conventional to organic farming systems is a serious challenge. There is little scientific, organic-based information for farmers as they choose among the options available for the build-up of soil organic matter, maintenance of soil fertility, crops and cultivars, and disease and insect pest management practices. Improved understanding of the processes that occur during the transition to mature organic production systems is necessary to ensure the economic success of organic farming systems.