The idea behind this field guide was to provide a pictorial guide about the concepts of organic IPM and important pests and beneficials. The focus of the document is implementing ecologically-based strategies to prevent pests from becoming a problem in the first place. ATTRA attempted to limit the text to provide only useful take-home’ messages… Continue reading Organic IPM Field Guide
Type: Guides & Manuals
Squash Bug and Squash Vine Borer: Organic Controls
Squash bug and squash vine borer are major pests among cucurbits. This publication addresses organic control methods for these pests. The life cycles and characteristics of each pest are presented. Various levels and types of organically sanctioned controls are discussed. Row covers, cultural methods, and physical practices are also covered. Experimental controls, biological controls, and… Continue reading Squash Bug and Squash Vine Borer: Organic Controls
Sustainable Weed Management for Small and Medium-Scale Farms
Managing croplands according to nature’s principles will reduce weed problems on horticultural crops, or row crops, in small and medium-sized operations. Creativity is key to devising sustainable cropping systems that prevent weed problems. This publication discusses several strategies, both proactive and reactive, as alternatives to conventional tillage systems. Options include mulching, competition, crop rotations, and… Continue reading Sustainable Weed Management for Small and Medium-Scale Farms
NOP 5020 Guidance on Natural Resources and Biodiversity Conservation
USDA’s National Organic Program guidance on biodiveristy and conservation for organic production and certification.
An Organic Farmer’s and Certifier’s Guide to Biodiversity Conservation
The Guide clarifies the National Organic Program’s (NOP) new Natural Resources and Biodiversity Conservation Guidance (released January 2016). The Guide will also increase organic farmers’ and certifiers’ understanding of the myriad of benefits provided by biodiversity conservation.
Audit Trail: A Sample Documentation Process
One of the core practices of your certified organic operation is developing good quality record-keeping and documentation (commonly referred to as an “audit trail”). Use this tool as an example when developing the documentation process for your operation.
Quick Start Guide: Organic Livestock Feed and Nutrition
Need a quick reference guide for how to get started with understanding organic rules for livestock feed, supplements and nutrition? Oregon Tilth’s condensed Quick Start Guide series is designed to answer your big questions quickly, give examples and point to helpful tools to get started
Grazing Planning Manual and Workbook
This manual provides all the resources you need to write your grazing plan, monitor its efficacy, and adjust your management throughout the grazing season. Periodically reviewing your plan and records will help you assess how well you are working toward your goals and will suggest ways to improve the next season. The manual starts with… Continue reading Grazing Planning Manual and Workbook
Organic and Grass-Finished Beef Cattle Production
Market demand is rapidly increasing for sustainably raised and organic beef products. Pasture- or grass-based livestock production relies on biodiversity and ecological complexity to maintain production with the use of less costly inputs. Cattle producers recognize that grazing and pasture access can lower production costs, reduce animal stress, and boost the animal’s immune system. This… Continue reading Organic and Grass-Finished Beef Cattle Production
Nutrient Management Plan for Organic Systems: Idaho Implementation Guide
This document is an instruction guide for creating and implementing a nutrient management plan (NMP) on certified or transitioning organic lands. An NMP for organically managed lands describes the amount, source, placement, form, and timing of the application of nutrients and soil amendments, generally by field, to meet crop nutrient needs while protecting water quality,… Continue reading Nutrient Management Plan for Organic Systems: Idaho Implementation Guide