An Argument For Sustainable Agriculture Essay -- Farming Agricultural

An Argument For Sustainable Agriculture Introduction Merriam-Webster's online dictionary defines stewardship as "the careful and responsible management of something entrusted in one's care" (Merriam-Webster, 2015). Sustainable agriculture is a method that does not deplete soil, water, air, wildlife or human community resources ("Community Alliance with," 1997). These two principles describe a type of farming that practices responsible management of the land in a way that does not deplete natural resources or the human community. We are living in a time when many environmental issues have come up due to such things as overpopulation, increased waste production, over consumption, depletion of natural resources and other activities that do not replenish the land. We must show great concern in dealing with these problems. Farming is clearly a key element in sustaining life as we know it, but it can also have devastating affects on the land. "Sustainability rests on the principle that we must meet present needs without compromising the abil ity of future generations to meet their own needs. Therefore, stewardship of both natural and human resources is of prime importance" (Feenstra). So, by managing resources under our care responsibly and practicing methods that do not deplete natural and human resources, we can meet current needs without compromising the needs of future generations. The idea of taking care of things for future generations is of prime importance in dealing with all issues that lead to compromising our environment. Farming is one activity that can lead to the depletion of soil, water, air, wildlife and quality of human community resources. Alternatives to conventional farming methods are present and do have th... ...pril 2015 http://www.cfarm.com/faq/whyorg.htm Community Alliance with Family Farmers. (1997). FAQ's About Sustainable Agriculture, Web 14 April 2015 www.caff.org/sustain/faq/ Engelken, R. (1983). The Art of Natural Farming and Gardening. Greeley, Iowa: Barington Hall Press. Feenstra, Gail. (No Date). What is Sustainable Agriculture? Web 14 April 2015 www.sarep.ucdavis.edu/sarep/concept.htm Merriam Webster's Online Dictionary. (2015). http://www.merriam-webster.com/ Organic Corn Hardier Than Conventional. (1995). Science News, 148, 255. Platt, LaVonne G. (Ed.). (1987). Hope For the Family. (1987). Newton, Kansas: Faith and Life Press. Pretty, Jules N. (1995). Regenerating Agriculture. Washington, D.C.: Joseph Henry Press. Whole Earth. (No Date). 10 Reasons to GO Organic. Web 14 April 2015 www.demon.co.Earthnet/org.10rea.html