Vegetable Growers Know Better
August 1, 2009 Of course we do. An Internet blog recently posed serious questions to our thoughts about global food security, which is becoming more and more threatened as the world population inexorably increases. Can agricultural science meet the challenge?
One point of view holds that new developments in traditional seed breeding and in genetic engineering will create crops that will raise yield levels and help withstand drought, especially in Africa.
Another view expressing the anti-GMO (genetically modified organism) position suggests that we must rely on organic farming practices to build soil
organic matter, which is a drought buffer for all crops. It blames both conventional and GMO-based agriculture for biologically destructive approaches.
The problem with the second viewpoint is that it makes the unwarranted inference that regular farming practice does not build up and maintain soil organic matter (SOM). This is a sensitive point for anyone who believes himself to be a farmer. The essence of farming is stewardship of the soil, leaving it richer and stronger, and this is done with SOM.
The Truth Of The Matter
The truth is that with any kind of farming, buildup and maintenance of SOM is of first importance. Soil scientists consider SOM, and its byproduct humus, a major source for sustaining or increasing agricultural productivity. And vegetable growers know that crop rotations, mulching and manure applications, reduced or no tillage, and adding organic matter are vitally needed for a successful farm.
Most vegetable farms are small farms, and a big problem is having enough land for cover crop rotation. Some small market growers (under 3 acres) go so far as to seed narrow strips of cover crops in between the rows of existing crops in order to maintain organic matter levels. It is that important.
The charge that it is deeply unethical to talk about the use of genetically modified seed because attention must first be directed to SOM is misleading. It cleverly shifts the focus to organic farming, while not recognizing that conventional farming also strives to build and maintain SOM. Such obfuscation must not be left unchallenged.
Any working vegetable grower will tell you that his success begins with his soil and crop rotations for optimal soil health and fertility. This involves SOM and humus, two essential ingredients for success, whether an organic farmer or a
conventional farmer, whether GM crops or traditionally bred.
Advocates of organic farming are passionate in their beliefs, but let’s not get carried away with exclusive claims about SOM. Organic farming enthusiasts sometimes trash good science in their zeal. As the world approaches new levels of population growth and increasing need to feed hungry people, it is important that we keep a balanced, rational viewpoint on agricultural practices.
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