The sweet potato industry, although a high value industry, is becoming increasingly competitive. This underlines the importance of efficiency in minimising the loss of valuable soil. Large amounts of rainfall can result in the loss of soil on cultivated farmland. The loss of soil does not just affect the farmers it also affects the community The aim of the project was to increase awareness of soil health and to develop the best soil management practices for the Cudgen plateau. Figure [ 2 ] Water Way On the Cudgen Plateau, three adjoining landholders implemented soil conservation measures and strategies.
The FDA and USDA clearly state that organic foods are no healthier for you than processed food (Organic Foods FAQ). Throughout my research I have found many pros and cons, between organic foods Pros of organic food: It can help in the preservation and conservation of the natural environment. By buying food that isn’t produced and harvested using chemicals, organic decrease their usage. Another benefit is, through organic farming it decreases the amount of chemicals in the production cycle, and therefore it helps to support biodiversity. It encourages a wider range for plants and animals, this leads to a healthier eco system (Johnston).
Buying organic foods is a smart choice; not only are there health and wellness benefits but it also impacts the environment in a positive way. There have been numerous studies done comparing the nutrient content of organic food versus non-organic food with varied results from year to year. However, a review of all studies shows that organic foods do provide significantly greater levels of Vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus than the same food items that were grown conventionally (Crinnion 4). In addition to higher nutritional content, some organic foods have been shown to provide higher levels of antioxidant phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and carotenoids; producing greater antioxidant activity (Crinnion 4). While some critics argue that in vivo studies have failed to demonstrate this antioxidant activity, several in vitro studies consistently show evidence to support this boost in antioxidant exertion (Crinnion 4).
With all the agriculture the state produces has helped the economy and will continue to help the economy of Montana, the nation, and even the world. As countries begin and continue developing, citizen’s income will rise and their demand for certain agricultural goods that America can provide for them will increase. Farming productivity affects the cost of living in the United States. When there is an abundant of food in the country prices of goods are lower then when there is not. Many things can cause a shortage in food supply such as, natural disasters, insects, or soil problems.
• Preparedness for National Disaster/Fuel Crisis • Local produce taste better • Local produce is better for you • Promotes produce diversity • Is GMO free • Helps to build community • Good for local economy/supports local farmers • Beneficial for the environment 11 What are the challenges to local food in Vermont? • Diet adjustments would be needed • Production diversity is lacking • Lack of processing and storage facilities • Cheaper to import foods from agribusiness farms 16 What is currently being done to
They are creating problems to create a more sustainable society but it can be corrected. Over-cultivation is cultivating repeatedly and growing crop faster than the soil can regenerate, and this cost the quality and productivity of the soil. The first step in over-cultivation is plowing to control
There are many advantages and disadvantages both ecological and economical to buying locally versus buying from larger companies that manufacture their food from around the country and sometimes across the world. Buying locally made foods will give the most nutritional value due to food being at the peak of growth and not sent around and the country or around the world. Buying locally also helps the farmers to be able to get fair prices on their produce. According to Terrie Schultz, 2010 "Industrial agriculture is a major source of water pollution. Runoff of chemical fertilizers, animal waste and pesticides contaminates lakes and streams.
If we primarily produce vegetables and grains, this will drive down prices, making the food cheaper and more attainable to the nations poor and the planet would be about to support the population. Environmentally, the livestock industry produces 18% if the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. In total this is more than the total of the world’s transportation system. This includes all cars, trains, and planes
While traditional farming choose to grow organic produce and struggle to keep their businesses alive. In Jeffrey M. Smith book, Genetic Roulette the intro talks about the experements they had with animals and the GMO foods. Many of the animals organs were becoming defecting or mutated over time. After looking at the results, animals that consume the modifications continusly it can lead to serious health risks. In addition the animal’s lifespan was shortened and their offspring a lower chance of survival.
Shrinking the distance that food travels may help the environment in some ways but it has it’s downfalls in others. Local farmers have increased 20% in the past six years, according to the Agriculture Dept. (Source E) but this affects farmers from other parts of the world. Marion Nestle, a professor of public health at New York University states that it is not necessary to eat locally in order to be healthy. “In fact, a person making smart choices