Effects of the Modern Technologies on the Economic Efficiency of Cropping Systems

Abstract

Non-adaptive land use in the Russian dry step generates negative ecological effects and damages arable land. For this reason, research studies have to show how adaptive cropping systems can help to promote soil fertility and economic benefit. This paper represents an examination of the economic effects of alternative cultivation methods which were tested in Southwestern Siberia. For research purposes, a traditional farming system, an expanded conventional system and a direct seeding system were compared to each other, especially the gross margins per hectare as well as by year. Overall, the adapted forms produce higher contribution margins than the conventional system. The main reason for lower contribution margin in the conventional system is the fallow period in the crop rotation, which produces no crop yield. Adding field pea and oilseed rape in rotation with the primary cash crop, wheat, represents an alternative to fallow periods. The reduced intensity of tillage in the adapted systems also helps to decrease labour and machinery costs by saving working hours and fuel.