Genres : Agriculture

This book is the culmination of Acres U.S.A. founder Charles Walters’ lifetime of experience, written in his honest, straight-ahead style, outlining how the small farmer-entrepreneur can find his way to a profitable bottom line. A Farmer's Guide to the Bottom Line provides how-to information on each step from planning to implementation of business practices for the eco-friendly farm and includes examples of people who are making a living, and a profit, by demanding a fair price for their labor. Whether...

One of the leading authorities on biological farming, Gary Zimmer is recognized for improving farming by restoring soils. Arguing that an optimally productive soil contains a balance of inorganic minerals, organic materials and living organisms, he relies less on modern improvements than on "the things we’ve learned by improving fertility in a natural, sustainable way over many years." This book offers invaluable scientific support for committed organic farmers as well as conventional farmers who'd like to reduce chemical inputs and...

Healthy soil is the foundation of healthy life—and A Soil Owner’s Manual is your essential guide to restoring it.In this revised and expanded second edition, soil scientist Jon Stika explains how the biology beneath our feet drives plant health, food quality, and ecosystem balance. Drawing on decades of field research and practical experience, Stika reveals how our current agricultural systems—focused on yields and inputs—have broken the natural functions of soil. He then provides clear, science-based steps for rebuilding that living...

Biological farmers work with nature, feeding soil life, balancing soil minerals and tilling soils with a purpose. The methods they apply involve a unique system of beliefs, observations and guidelines that result in increased production and profit. This practical how-to guide explains their methods and will help you make farming profitable and fun. Biological farming does not mean less production; it means eliminating obstacles to healthy, efficient production. Once the chemical, physical and biological properties of the soil are in...

In this book, author and lifelong poultry keeper Kelly Klober turns his attention to alternative poultry ventures. The newfound interest in heritage breeds of chicken has created a unique opportunity for small farmers to reintroduce consumers to other types of poultry. Ducks, pigeons, and guinea were all once ubiquitous on the family farm, and the market is opening to them once again among influential chefs and foodies. From geese to quail to peahens to turkeys, Klober discusses the pros and...

In this book, Callahan shows how "civilized" insanity is turning Ireland away from her naturally harmonious, aesthetically pleasing, sound practices. Why remove a thatched roof to replace it with galvanized tin, only to increase the heating bill? With insightful wisdom, Callahan also examines the mysterious power of round towers, "magic spots," and healers such as Biddy Early. Callahan's study of hedgerows, booley people and Ireland's traditional form of agriculture can teach everyone the value of the land and why not...

Now available! New from bestselling author Mark Shepard! Written as a companion to the bestseller, Restoration Agriculture, this book will help farmers capture water in areas they want to, and avoid having water flow immediately to the low point. The result? Less water expense, healthier crops and livestock, and less erosion ... just to name a few. What you will read in this book is a distillation of over 25 years of on-the-ground experience working with and modifying the Yeomans’...

Natural Cattle Care is a comprehensive analysis of farming techniques that keep the health of the animal in mind. Pat Coleby believes that how you farm determines the health of your livestock, and she brings a wealth of animal husbandry experience to bear in this analysis of many serious problems of contemporary farming practices, focusing in particular on how poor soils lead to mineral-deficient plants and ailing farm animals. Encompassing every facet of farm management, from the mineral components of...

Proper horse care begins with good nutrition practices. Chances are, if a horse needs medical attention, the causes can be traced to poor feeding practices, nutrient-deficient feed, bad farming and, ultimately, imbalanced, demineralized soil. Pat Coleby shares decades of experience working with a variety of horses. She explains how conventional farming and husbandry practices compromise livestock health, resulting in problems that standard veterinary techniques can’t properly address. Natural Horse Care addresses a broad spectrum of comprehensive health care, detailing dozens...

Whether you’re a serious home gardener or a full-time farmer, A Growers Guide for Balancing Soils will help you expand your understanding of the science behind plant nutrition. It all starts with the soil, but, as you’ll read, just spreading compost and hoping for the best isn’t a strategy for success.Drawing on 40 years of experience using the Albrecht philosophy of balancing soils, William McKibben will walk you through a data-driven, time-tested process that starts with soil analysis, but doesn’t...