Agricultural Production
Organic and Conventional Systems
Okoro M. Akinyemi
ISBN 978-1-57808-512-5; July 2007; 240 pages, hc/ US $ 64.40
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This book examines production efficiency and economic benefits of agricultural
production systems, comparing both organic and conventional systems. Diseases
and pest outbreaks are looked into with a view of recommending the appropriate
methods of control. Definition of land and its uses are discussed. Factors affecting
soil formation and methods of replenishing lost nutrients are enumerated in
an attempt to educate students and farmers on the modern techniques of retaining
soil nutrients without environmental destruction. Experiments conducted on soil
to investigate the effects and factors affecting nutrients mineralization have
been described. Descriptions of forest trees have been given to explain their
roles in economic expansion. Methods of planting, rules and regulations implemented
by communities, states and countries are also discussed.
This book critically reviews the effects of agricultural chemicals on soil organisms
and other agricultural practices.
Contents
Introduction to Organic Agricultural Practices
. Factors; The Ideal of Philosophers in Organic Agriculture Inputs; Organic
Motivation; Necessity in Organic Farming; Certification Requirements; Trade
in Organic Food; Marketing
Basic Concepts for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development
. Key Challenges to Agricultural Systems; Agricultural Advancement; Enhancing
Food Security;
Agricultural Sustainability; Suggestions on How to Promote Agricultural Development;
Factors
Affecting Farmers
Land
. Land Tenure; Land Use; Rock Formation Processes; Soil and its Formation;
Soil Composition and Property; Soil Organic Matter in Sustaining Soil Fertility;
Soil Management Principles; Soil Quality in Organic Systems; Organic Matter
Content; Soil Biological Activities/Microorganisms; Soil pH; Availability of
Nitrogen to Plants; Factors Affecting Soil Fertility; Carbon Sequestration in
Farming System; Organic Agriculture/Microclimates; Ground and Surface Water.
Effects and Consequences of Agricultural Chemicals on Soil
. Consequences of Chemical Usage; Effects of Chemicals on Soil; Developing
and Maintaining
Fertile Soils; Preventing Outbreaks of Pests and Diseases; Implementing Changes
in Chemical
Applications; Ecological Strategies for Pest Control
