Organic production flow is a holistic system designed to optimize the productivity and fitness of diverse communities within the agro-ecosystem, including soil organisms, plants, livestock and people . The principal goal of organic production is to develop enterprises that are sustainable and harmonious with the environment . Organic farming promotes the use of crop rotations and cover crops and encourages balanced host/predator relationships. Organic residues and nutrients produced on the farm are recycled back to the soil. Cover crops and composted manure are used to maintain soil organic matter and fertility .
The general principles of organic production, from the Canadian Organic Standards (2020) , include the following:
– Protect the environment, minimize soil degradation and erosion, decrease pollution, optimize biological productivity and promote a sound state of health.
– Maintain long-term soil fertility by optimizing conditions for biological activity within the soil.
– Maintain biological diversity within the system.
– Recycle materials and resources to the greatest extent possible within the operation.
Organic production in Ontario includes both certified and uncertified production . The main reasons farmers state for wanting to farm organically are their concerns for the environment and about working with agricultural chemicals in conventional farming systems. Organic farmers find their method of farming can be profitable and personally rewarding .
Organic production is a system that integrates cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity . The system is designed to optimize the productivity and fitness of diverse communities within the agro-ecosystem, including soil organisms, plants, livestock, and people . Organic production systems are based on the principles of health, ecology, fairness, and care . Organic production systems aim to produce food using natural substances and processes, and to respect the balance of ecosystems .
Organic certification is a process that verifies that agricultural products have been produced and handled according to strict guidelines. The certification process is designed to ensure that organic products meet the standards set by the Canadian Organic Standards (2020) . The process of organic certification for farmers involves a flow chart that outlines the steps involved in the certification process. Costs are calculated either by acreage or by anticipated gross sales .
In summary, organic production flow is
Organic Production Flowchart image
