Back J. F. Parr and S. B. Hornick
The Nature Farming Research and Development Foundation, Lompoc, California, USA
Full Paper (PDF File: 62KB)
Abstract
The Naturfarm is located near Lompoc, California and comprises about 75
tillable acres of cropland. The farm was acquired in 1 988 to demonstrate
rflefeasibilty of large-scale, commercial vegetable production in the United
States using nature farming methods and a permanent-bed planting system.
It is certified as an organic farm by the California Certified Organic
Farmers Association (CCOF). The Naturfarm is supported by Sekai Kyusei
Kyo, Atami, Japan and managed by the Nature Farming Research and Development
Foundation (NFRDF) to promote the development and feasibility of Kyusei
Nature Farming and EM technology through research, education and outreach
programs. The Naturfarm also produces organically-grown vegetables for
Johrei Centers and for local and regional markets. Management strategies
at the Naturfarm focus primarily on the integration of non-chemical methods
to maintain adequate soil quality and to control harmful insects and weeds
while achieving optimum crop yields and quality.