Adaptation of resilient regenerative agricultural practices by small-scale growers towards sustainable food production in north-central Arizona

Abstract

The demand for agricultural lands for other uses because of population growth and extreme climate in Arizona led to 57% decrease in average farm size and 127% increase in farm numbers from 1997 to 2017, which threaten sustainable local food production. Small-scale family farms of less than 10 acres make up 50% of the farmer population in the state and have a vital role in resilient and sustainable practices that maximize land use with less negative impact on the environment. This study investigated land use and farm practices among small-scale growers in north-central Arizona in their resilience in sustainable food production. The finding revealed 52% of the small farms are family operations with dominant regenerative and sustainable practices (27% cover cropping, 26% compost, 23% crop rotation, 22% animal and green manure, 21% no-till, and 18% reduced tillage) with less interest in conventional practices (5% intensive tillage and 13% synthetic fertilizers). Ninety-five percent of the growers used biological, cultural, or mechanical practices for weed, pest, and disease control, while only 5% used conventional synthetic chemicals. For water use, 78% of the growers used water-saving irrigation practices (drip, subsurface, and sprinklers), while 11% used open flood irrigation. Driving forces for the sustainable practices among the small-scale growers are their consumers (community supported agriculture, restaurants, Farmers' Markets, and farm stands) and extreme climate conditions. Small-scale growers have great potential in advancing resilient, environmentally friendly practices for sustainable local food production and environmental stewardship.