Sustainable Agriculture

What is sustainable agriculture?

Sustainable agriculture is an approach to farming that strives to produce high-quality food while protecting the natural environment and building local economies. This philosophy involves many different agricultural methods such as controlling pests with biological means rather than spraying pesticides; conserving soil and water; and minimizing the use of nonrenewable petroleum-based fuel.

There are many benefits to sustainable agriculture:

• produces more wholesome and healthier food
• protects and renews soil fertility and the natural resource base
• promotes family farming and farm communities
• bolsters local rural economies
• reduces the environmental impacts of agriculture

Resources to Learn More

To learn more about sustainable agriculture, please explore some of these online resources:

Maine Organic Farmers and Growers Association (MOFGA)

Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE)

USDA National Agriculture Library's Alternative Farming Systems Information Center