Tweet
Basic Lesson Plan Number 162
10 Items To Sustainable Farming
10 Items To Sustainable Farming
In the world of farming, the word “Sustainable” refers to any farming method that produces food, fiber or other agricultural products, while protecting the environment, humans and animals. It may or may not be organic. To learn more about what is real sustainable farming, and how to avoid mistakes as a beginner, you must use the ideas listed below.
1. Think in terms of developing a closed-loop system. in which you manage your land, and what it produces are recycled. The system is put to use without harming man, animals, or the environment. Remember that you should not replant the same crop in the same spot each year. Plants use up the nutrients and chemicals at different rate, so the land needs time to recover.
2. Don’t neglect the economic side of sustainability. Ideally, your land and what it produces, should provide enough income to supply the additional needs the land cannot provide. If you have enough acres think rental for the season to other farmers for crops.
3. Conserve water by storing rainwater, and runoff from storms, using it for irrigation.
4. Use water-saving techniques, such as a drip system. If located where it is hot and/or dry mulch around your plants to conserve soil moisture.
5. For off grid use; Use animals to provide power for your equipment, as a food source, and to improve the soil by eating invasive plants, and providing manure.
(Natures fertilizer)
6. Use excess produce to feed your livestock, and/or provide additional income by selling it.
7. Preserve produce, and meat; A ROOT CELLAR is a must for use during winter months, and in case of emergencies.
8. Avoid the use of synthetic herbicides or pesticides. Rely on beneficial insects, weeding with animals, mechanical means, personal experience, and knowledge.
9. Re-purpose downed or dead trees as animal cover, as lumber to use in building projects, and for heat.
10. learn to use solar, wind, water, wood, and bio-fuels as off grid energy sources for individual projects.
Hint: Prior to you purchasing a Hobby, or even full size farm, get experience by attending a few weekend farming schools that will give you experience in crops, livestock, and general operations.
Comment