The Organic Farming Research Foundation put out a report today that shows that organic farming promotes many benefits to the economy and community in addition to the good food it produces. The data can be used in the creation of the 2012 Farm Bill to ensure that organic farming has a place on the map.

If you want to review the report yourself, you can check it out here. Some of the highlights:

Organic Soy Farmers do better
“USDA data indicate that organic soybean producers earn higher profits even in years
when yields are slightly lower largely because of the higher market prices received for
organic food-grade soybeans.”

Organic farming reduces carbon emissions
“…organic farming systems–particularly those with lengthy, diversified rotations and that
integrate crop and livestock production — can play a significant role in helping capture carbon.”

Organic farming makes economic sense
“In Iowa, returns from an organic system after three years were competitive with returns
from the conventional system.”

After making its case, the report goes on to make policy recommendations for government. It is clear from the press release that the goal of the report is to further the cause of organic farming in a difficult economic climate.

Tags: food policy, organic farming policy, organic farming policy initiatives

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