Author: Eeswaran Rasu
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Electronic dissertations
Languages : en
Pages : 220
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Book Description
Increasing climate extremes have devastated both crop yields and farm economies, especially in the rainfed agricultural systems of the Midwestern United States. Furthermore, these extreme events are projected to increase in the future due to climate change. As a result, alternative agricultural practices are becoming more common in efforts to mitigate the impacts of extreme climatological events. Nevertheless, the level of resiliency of these practices has not yet been adequately quantified due to the lack of robust metrics available to address the complexity of agricultural systems while being simple enough to be measured at different scales. To this end, three studies were conducted and compiled into this dissertation. These studies were carried out in a long-term cropping system experiment at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station and the Kalamazoo River Watershed located in the Southwestern Michigan of the United States.The first study was designed to evaluate the applicability of soil moisture metrics to gauge resiliency of four differently managed rainfed agricultural treatments at the field scale. The robustness of these metrics was assessed over a long-period (1993-2018) for a corn-soybean-wheat rotation by monitoring crop growth and yield in response to climate variability. Results demonstrated that the soil moisture metrics can be used as indicators of resilience at the field scale. The no-till treatment had the highest level of resilience as quantified by soil moisture retention, effectiveness of reducing drought severity, crop yields, and stability of yields. Although the organic treatment substantially improved resiliency in terms of soil moisture conservation and drought mitigation than the conventional treatment, the limitation of available nitrogen significantly reduced corn and wheat yields. Meanwhile, the reduced input treatment was the least resilient as it was vulnerable during extreme climate conditions. The second study was performed to evaluate the climate resilience of four rainfed agricultural treatments in terms of profitability and farm risks for the same corn-soybean-wheat rotation. Crop production and management data were used to conduct enterprise budgeting and risk analysis. The means and volatility of estimated net returns and risk preferences were used as the evaluation metrics. According to the results of this study, the organic and the no-till treatments had higher resilience than the conventional and the reduced input treatments as they were projected to generate greater net revenues with higher stability. Furthermore, these treatments were promising to cater to a large group of farmers with different risk preferences. Meantime, conventional and reduced inputs treatments were found to be adversely affected by climate extremes.The goal of the third study was to examine the impacts of large-scale adaptation of conservation agricultural practices (i.e., no-till treatment) on resilience in comparison to traditional practices (i.e., conventional treatment). Similar to the previous two studies, the corn-soybean-wheat rotation was applied on all agricultural land use in the Kalamazoo River Watershed during the period of 1993-2019. Crop and groundwater models were integrated to derive the resilience metrics, namely recharge, groundwater level, soil moisture, yield, and net return. Results showed clear improvement in all metrics under the no-till treatment. Therefore, the adoption of the no-till could improve the overall resilience of the corn-soybean-wheat rotation. Together, these studies present a set of robust metrics to quantify the resilience of diverse rainfed agricultural systems both at the field and watershed scale.
Author: Philip Tow
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 9781402091315
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 1336
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Book Description
While a good grasp of the many separate aspects of agriculture is important, it is equally essential for all those involved in agriculture to understand the functioning of the farming system as a whole and how it can be best managed. It is necessary to re-assess and understand rain-fed farming systems around the world and to find ways to improve the selection, design and operation of such systems for long term productivity, profitability and sustainability. The components of the system must operate together efficiently; yet many of the relationships and interactions are not clearly understood. Appreciation of these matters and how they are affected by external influences or inputs are important for decision making and for achieving desirable outcomes for the farm as a whole. This book analyses common rain-fed farming systems and defines the principles and practices important to their effective functioning and management.
Author: Gabrijel Ondrasek
Publisher: BoD – Books on Demand
ISBN: 1837684200
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 124
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Book Description
In our rapidly growing and changing world, the sustainable management of Earth’s resources has become an urgent global priority. Resource Management in Agroecosystems provides a compass for navigating this complex terrain. It offers a multifaceted exploration of resource management from sustainable agricultural practices to water and energy optimization, soil conservation, and biodiversity preservation. This book delves deep into the strategies needed to harmonize food production with environmental stewardship. Beyond addressing challenges, this book also spotlights opportunities, inviting readers to embark on a transformative journey. With profound gratitude to our authors, reviewers, and publishers, we invite you to join us in this intellectual odyssey. Let Resource Management in Agroecosystems guide you toward a more sustainable and resilient future, where the needs of humanity harmonize with the well-being of our planet.
Author: Vikas Abrol
Publisher: BoD – Books on Demand
ISBN: 9535108085
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 310
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Book Description
In this book, papers pertaining to resource management for sustainable agricultural development are presented in four parts divided into ten chapters. Part I discusses the usage of water and waste management for sustainable agricultural development including aspects like irrigation management to prevent soil and ground water salinization, production of solid fuel from oil palm waste, sustainable ecomaterials and biorefinery from agroindustrial waste, nonpoint pollution from agriculture and livestock activities on surface water. Part II discusses sustainable management of dryland resources especially carbon sequestration under changing climate scenario. Part III deals with efficient nutrient management for sustainable crop productivity in different agro-climatic conditions, soil quality and productivity improvement under rainfed conditions. Part IV throws light upon effect of conservation tillage on soil properties and impact of agricultural traffic and tillage on soil properties.
Author: Taneja, Garima
Publisher: Intl Food Policy Res Inst
ISBN:
Category : Social Science
Languages : en
Pages : 44
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Book Description
This study was undertaken to assess farmers preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) for various climate-smart interventions in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The research outputs will be helpful in integrating farmers choices with government programs in the selected regions. The Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) was selected because it is highly vulnerable to climate change, which may adversely affect the sustainability of the rice-wheat production system and the food security of the region. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) can mitigate the negative impacts of climate change and improve the efficiency of the rice-wheat-based production system. CSA requires a complete package of practices to achieve the desired objectives, but adoption is largely dependent on farmers preferences and their capacity and WTP. To assess farmers choices and their WTP for the potential climate-smart technologies and other interventions, we used scoring and bidding protocols implemented through focus group meetings in two distinct regions of Eastern and Western IGP. We find that laser land leveling (LLL), crop insurance, and weather advisory services were the preferred interventions in Eastern IGP. Farmers preferred LLL, direct seeding, zero tillage, irrigation scheduling, and crop insurance in Western IGP. Through the bidding approach, farmers implicitly express their WTP for new technologies that could transform current agricultural practices into relatively low-carbon and more productive farming methods. But actual large-scale adoption of the preferred climate-smart technologies and other interventions would require access to funding as well as capacity building among technology promoters and users.
Author: Karl S. Zimmerer
Publisher: MIT Press
ISBN: 0262549697
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 403
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Book Description
Experts discuss the challenges faced in agrobiodiversity and conservation, integrating disciplines that range from plant and biological sciences to economics and political science. Wide-ranging environmental phenomena—including climate change, extreme weather events, and soil and water availability—combine with such socioeconomic factors as food policies, dietary preferences, and market forces to affect agriculture and food production systems on local, national, and global scales. The increasing simplification of food systems, the continuing decline of plant species, and the ongoing spread of pests and disease threaten biodiversity in agriculture as well as the sustainability of food resources. Complicating the situation further, the multiple systems involved—cultural, economic, environmental, institutional, and technological—are driven by human decision making, which is inevitably informed by diverse knowledge systems. The interactions and linkages that emerge necessitate an integrated assessment if we are to make progress toward sustainable agriculture and food systems. This volume in the Strüngmann Forum Reports series offers insights into the challenges faced in agrobiodiversity and sustainability and proposes an integrative framework to guide future research, scholarship, policy, and practice. The contributors offer perspectives from a range of disciplines, including plant and biological sciences, food systems and nutrition, ecology, economics, plant and animal breeding, anthropology, political science, geography, law, and sociology. Topics covered include evolutionary ecology, food and human health, the governance of agrobiodiversity, and the interactions between agrobiodiversity and climate and demographic change.
Author: Alexandre Meybeck
Publisher: Food & Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO)
ISBN:
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 356
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Book Description
"The joint workshop on Building resilience for adaptation to climate change in the agriculture sector was organized by FAO and OECD, and was held from 23 to 24 April 2012, at FAO headquarters in Rome."--P. 5.
Author: Suhas Pralhad Wani
Publisher: CABI
ISBN: 1845933893
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 326
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Book Description
This book, which contains 14 chapters, covers all aspects of rainfed agriculture, starting with its potential, current status, rainwater harvesting and supplementary irrigation, to policies, approaches, institutions for upscaling, and impacts of integrated water management programmes in rainfed areas.
Author: World Bank
Publisher: World Bank Publications
ISBN: 0821386840
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 685
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Book Description
Managing the ability of agriculture to meet rising global demand and to respond to the changes and opportunities will require good policy, sustained investments, and innovation - not business as usual. Investments in public Research and Development, extension, education, and their links with one another have elicited high returns and pro-poor growth, but these investments alone will not elicit innovation at the pace or on the scale required by the intensifying and proliferating challenges confronting agriculture. Experience indicates that aside from a strong capacity in Research and Development, the ability to innovate is often related to collective action, coordination, the exchange of knowledge among diverse actors, the incentives and resources available to form partnerships and develop businesses, and conditions that make it possible for farmers or entrepreneurs to use the innovations. While consensus is developing about what is meant by 'innovation' and 'innovation system', no detailed blueprint exists for making agricultural innovation happen at a given time, in a given place, for a given result. The AIS approach that looks at these multiple conditions and relationships that promote innovation in agriculture, has however moved from a concept to a sub-discipline with principles of analysis and action. AIS investments must be specific to the context, responding to the stage of development in a particular country and agricultural sector, especially the AIS. This sourcebook contributes to identifying, designing, and implementing the investments, approaches, and complementary interventions that appear most likely to strengthen AIS and to promote agricultural innovation and equitable growth. It emphasizes the lessons learned, benefits and impacts, implementation issues, and prospects for replicating or expanding successful practices. The information in this sourcebook derives from approaches that have been tested at different scales in different contexts. It reflects the experiences and evolving understanding of numerous individuals and organizations concerned with agricultural innovation, including the World Bank. This information is targeted to the key operational staff in international and regional development agencies and national governments who design and implement lending projects and to the practitioners who design thematic programs and technical assistance packages. The sourcebook can also be an important resource for the research community and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
Author: Dr Chandan Singh
Publisher: SGOC PUBLICATION
ISBN: 819356779X
Category : Social Science
Languages : en
Pages : 187
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Book Description
"Harvesting Sustainability: A Comprehensive Guide to Farming Systems and Sustainable Agriculture" Description: In a world challenged by growing populations, changing climates, and depleting natural resources, the call for sustainable agriculture has never been more urgent. "Harvesting Sustainability" is your definitive guide to understanding and implementing farming systems that prioritize environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social equity. Dive into the intricate web of modern agricultural practices, from traditional methods to cutting-edge technologies, as this book unveils the principles of sustainable agriculture. Whether you're a seasoned farmer, an agricultural student, or simply an eco-conscious individual interested in the food you consume, this book equips you with the knowledge needed to make a positive impact. Key Features: Comprehensive Coverage: Explore the historical evolution of agriculture, the current state of global food systems, and the pivotal role of sustainable practices in shaping our future. Farming Systems: Delve into various farming systems, including organic farming, agroecology, permaculture, precision farming, and more. Understand how these systems adapt to local conditions while minimizing environmental impact. Sustainable Techniques: Learn about regenerative soil practices, integrated pest management, efficient water usage, and crop diversity. Discover how these techniques enhance resilience and promote long-term agricultural sustainability. Innovative Technologies: Explore the intersection of agriculture and technology. From drone-assisted monitoring to smart irrigation systems, see how modern innovations are revolutionizing sustainable farming. Case Studies: Gain insights from real-world case studies that showcase successful sustainable farming initiatives from around the globe. Understand the challenges faced and the lessons learned. Economic Viability: Discover the economic benefits of sustainable agriculture, from reduced input costs to increased market demand for eco-friendly produce. Learn how sustainable practices can be both environmentally and economically rewarding. Food Security: Uncover the role of sustainable agriculture in ensuring global food security. Explore strategies for balancing production with distribution and consumption needs. Policy and Advocacy: Understand the policy landscape surrounding agriculture and sustainability. Learn how individuals and communities can advocate for and contribute to positive change. Practical Guidance: Whether you're a small-scale farmer or part of a large agricultural operation, find actionable steps and best practices for transitioning towards sustainable methods. "Harvesting Sustainability" is a comprehensive handbook that bridges the gap between theory and practice in the realm of sustainable agriculture. Written by experts in the field, this book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to be a steward of the land, protect biodiversity, and secure a resilient future for generations to come. Join the movement towards sustainable agriculture and cultivate a more sustainable tomorrow. Embark on a journey to transform agriculture from a resource-depleting industry to a regenerative force with "Harvesting Sustainability." Order your copy today and sow the seeds of change for a better world. Book dedicated to Indian & World agricultural reform and entrepreneurial study with research study purposes.
