Studies on long-term performance of organic and conventional cropping systems in Pennsylvania

Abstract

Since 1981, organic and conventional cropping systems have been compared in a field trial at the Rodale Institute in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Cropping system differences were evaluated for yields, soil quality, economic, and energy performance. Results showed that overall organic systems produced yields equal to conventional plots while at the same time improving soil quality. Organic systems also led to greater profitability while requiring less energy and emitting fewer greenhouse gases to produce the same amount of crops as the conventional systems.