scholarly journals A Carrot-and-Stick Approach to Environmental Improvement: Marrying Agri-Environmental Payments and Water Quality Regulations

2004 ◽  
Vol 33 (1) ◽  
pp. 91-104 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert C. Johansson ◽  
Jonathan D. Kaplan
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
Simulation Analysis ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Large Animal ◽  
Animal Feeding Operations ◽  
Poultry Products ◽  
Water Quality Regulations ◽  
Environmental Quality Incentives Program

Agri-environmental programs, such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, provide payments to livestock and crop producers to generate broadly defined environmental benefits and to help them comply with federal water quality regulations, such as those that require manure nutrients generated on large animal feeding operations to be spread on cropland at no greater than agronomic rates. We couch these policy options in terms of agri-environmental “carrots” and regulatory “sticks,” respectively. The U.S. agricultural sector is likely to respond to these policies in a variety of ways. Simulation analysis suggests that meeting nutrient standards would result in decreased levels of animal production, increased prices for livestock and poultry products, increased levels of crop production, and water quality improvements. However, estimated impacts are not homogeneous across regions. In regions with relatively less cropland per ton of manure produced, the impacts of these policies are more pronounced.

scholarly journals Sustainability governance of the Danish bioeconomy — the case of bioenergy and biomaterials from agriculture

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Niclas Scott Bentsen ◽  
Søren Larsen ◽  
Inge Stupak
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Soil Carbon ◽  
Greenhouse Gas ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
Greenhouse Gas Emission ◽  
State Regulation ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Biofuel Production ◽  
Agricultural Crop

Abstract Background The EU bioeconomy strategy aims to accelerate the European bioeconomy and its contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. National policies and strategies in many countries promote their bioeconomies. The importance of agricultural crops and residues as raw materials for the bioeconomy is increasingly recognised, but agricultural production also contributes to large impacts on nature and environment. With the aim of assessing the governance measures and their effectiveness in addressing the sustainability of bioenergy and biofuel production, the purpose of this study was to map the governance complex relevant to agricultural crop production in Denmark, and to identify the achievements, challenges and lessons learned. Methods The analysis is based on a review and assessment of publicly available databases, inventory reports and scientific literature on governance measures and their effectiveness. Governance here includes a variety of legislation, agreements, conventions and standardisation. Environmental sustainability is represented by greenhouse gas emissions from the agricultural sector, soil carbon, water quality and biodiversity. Results The agricultural sector has a significant impact on Danish climate performance and on landscapes in the form of soil carbon losses, leaching of nutrients to water bodies and pressures on biodiversity. The governance complex addressing these issues is made up of a variety of state regulation and co-regulation between state and firms, state and NGOs, or NGOs and firms. Much regulation is adopted from EU directives and implemented nationally. Conclusions The analysis found that greenhouse gas emission is a virtually unregulated field and additional regulation is required to live up to Denmark’s 2030 emission reduction targets. The regulatory framework for soil carbon is criticised for its complexity, its competing instruments and its recognition procedures of voluntary co-regulation. For water quality governance measures in place have improved water quality, but it is still difficult to achieve the goals of the Water Framework Directive. It remains a challenge to protect biodiversity in agriculture. Biodiversity is mainly governed by national and supranational regulation, but co-regulating between state and firms and NGOs and firms have been initiated in the framework of the Agricultural Agreement.

A Macroeconomic Analysis of Agricultural Sector in Nigeria

2019 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 18-25
Author(s):  
Isah Funtua Abubakar ◽  
Umar Bambale Ibrahim
Keyword(s):  
Value Chain ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
Time Series Data ◽  
Tourism Industry ◽  
Series Data ◽  
Size Analysis ◽  
The Real ◽  
Real Gdp ◽  
The Impact

This paper attempts to study the Nigerian agriculture industry as a panacea to growth as well as an anchor to the diversification agenda of the present government. To do this, the time series data of the four agriculture subsectors of crop production, livestock, forestry and fishery were analysed as stimulus to the Real GDP from 1981-2016 in order to explicate the individual contributions of the subsectors to the RGDP in order to guide the policy thrust on diversification. Using the Johansen approach to cointegration, all the variables were found to be cointegrated. With the exception of the forestry subsector, all the three subsectors were seen to have impacted on the real GDP at varying degrees during the time under review. The crop production subsector has the highest impact, however, taking size-by-size analysis, the livestock subsector could be of much importance due to its ability to retain its value chain and high investment returns particularly in poultry. Therefore, it is recommended that, the government should intensify efforts to retain the value chain in the crop production subsector, in order to harness its potentials optimally through the encouragement of the establishment of agriculture cottage industries. Secondly, the livestock subsector is found to be the most rapidly growing and commercialized subsector. Therefore, it should be the prime subsector to hinge the diversification agenda naturally. Lastly, the tourism industry which is a source through which the impact of the subsector is channeled to the GDP should be developed, in order to improve the impact of such channel to GDP with the sole objective to resuscitate the forestry subsector.

scholarly journals Barriers and bridges to the adoption of biodegradable plastic mulches for US specialty crop production

2013 ◽  
Vol 30 (2) ◽  
pp. 143-153 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jessica R. Goldberger ◽  
Robert Emmet Jones ◽  
Carol A. Miles ◽  
Russell W. Wallace ◽  
Debra A. Inglis
Keyword(s):  
Crop Production ◽  
Production Systems ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Biodegradable Plastic ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Design Development ◽  
Plastic Mulch ◽  
Specialty Crop ◽  
Study Results ◽  
Polyethylene Mulch

AbstractCommercial farmers have been using polyethylene plastic mulch since the 1950s. Despite the affordability and effectiveness of polyethylene mulch, the disposal process is financially and environmentally costly. Biodegradable plastic mulches, an ecologically sustainable alternative to polyethylene mulch films, were introduced in the 1980s. Biodegradable plastic mulches can be tilled into the soil or composted at the end of the season, reducing the labor and environmental costs associated with plastic removal and disposal. However, research results are mixed as to the effectiveness, degradability and ease-of-use of biodegradable plastic mulches. In 2008–2012, researchers, funded by a USDA Specialty Crop Research Initiative grant, conducted surveys and focus groups in three different agricultural regions of the USA to better understand the barriers and bridges to the adoption of biodegradable plastic mulches for specialty crop production systems. Data on the experiences and views of specialty crop growers, agricultural extension agents, agricultural input suppliers, mulch manufacturers and other stakeholders showed that the major adoption barriers were insufficient knowledge, high cost and unpredictable breakdown. The major bridges to adoption were reduced waste, environmental benefits and interest in further learning. These findings are discussed with reference to the classic innovation diffusion model, specifically work on the innovation–decision process and the attributes of innovations. The study results can be used to guide the activities of those involved in the design, development and promotion of biodegradable plastic mulches for US specialty crop production systems.

scholarly journals Water Quality Threats, Perceptions of Climate Change and Behavioral Responses among Farmers in the Ethiopian Rift Valley

Climate ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (6) ◽  
pp. 92
Author(s):  
Tewodros R. Godebo ◽  
Marc A. Jeuland ◽  
Christopher J. Paul ◽  
Dagnachew L. Belachew ◽  
Peter G. McCornick
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Water Quality ◽  
Surface Water ◽  
Water Availability ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
Local Development ◽  
Irrigated Agriculture ◽  
Ethiopian Rift ◽  
Adaptation Mechanism ◽  
Main Ethiopian Rift

This work aims to assess water quality for irrigated agriculture, alongside perceptions and adaptations of farmers to climate change in the Main Ethiopian Rift (MER). Climate change is expected to cause a rise in temperature and variability in rainfall in the region, reducing surface water availability and raising dependence on groundwater. The study data come from surveys with 147 farmers living in the Ziway–Shala basin and water quality assessments of 162 samples from groundwater wells and surface water. Most groundwater samples were found to be unsuitable for long term agricultural use due to their high salinity and sodium adsorption ratio, which has implications for soil permeability, as well as elevated bicarbonate, boron and residual sodium carbonate concentrations. The survey data indicate that water sufficiency is a major concern for farmers that leads to frequent crop failures, especially due to erratic and insufficient rainfall. An important adaptation mechanism for farmers is the use of improved crop varieties, but major barriers to adaptation include a lack of access to irrigation water, credit or savings, appropriate seeds, and knowledge or information on weather and climate conditions. Local (development) agents are identified as vital to enhancing farmers’ knowledge of risks and solutions, and extension programs must therefore continue to promote resilience and adaptation in the area. Unfortunately, much of the MER groundwater that could be used to cope with declining viability of rainfed agriculture and surface water availability, is poor in quality. The use of saline groundwater could jeopardize the agricultural sector, and most notably commercial horticulture and floriculture activities. This study highlights the complex nexus of water quality and sufficiency challenges facing the agriculture sector in the region, and should help decision-makers to design feasible strategies for enhancing adaptation and food security.

Перспективи розвитку зерновиробництва в Кіровоградській області

Ekonomika APK ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 319 (5) ◽  
pp. 30-37
Author(s):  
Emma Symonian ◽  
Nataliia Nerubaiska ◽  
Maryna Pukhliakova ◽  
Maksym Yandola
Keyword(s):  
Crop Production ◽  
Systematic Approach ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
Security Analysis ◽  
Practical Significance ◽  
Grain Production ◽  
Production Development ◽  
Analysis And Synthesis ◽  
National Production ◽  
Yield Monitoring

The purpose of the article is to explore the prospects for the development of grain production in the Kirovograd region. Research methods. The study used dialectical methods of cognition, a systematic approach to the study of economic phenomena, monographic (generalizing domestic and foreign experience in determining the economic essence of food security), analysis and synthesis (in studying the levels of production of cereals and legumes and the level of grain supply), statistical groups (in identifying the place of regions in the national production of cereals), economic and statistical (in the processing of mass statistics), abstract and logical (in substantiating theoretical generalizations and drawing conclusions). Research results. The potential of grain production development in Kirovohrad region is considered. The analysis is based on statistical data of the crop industry. Problems of industry development are revealed and ways of solutions are offered. Scientific novelty. Analysis of the level of crop production in the Kirovohrad region in terms of using the latest technologies and yield monitoring. Practical significance. Along with some positive changes in the region's grain production, obstacles to their development have been identified. Proposals have been made to eliminate them with active investments and state support programs for the agricultural sector of the region. Tabl.: 4. Figs.: 1. Refs.: 18.

scholarly journals Growing climatic sensitivity of U.S. agriculture linked to technological change and regional specialization

2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (12) ◽  
pp. eaat4343 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ariel Ortiz-Bobea ◽  
Erwin Knippenberg ◽  
Robert G. Chambers
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
State Level ◽  
The United States ◽  
Climate Data ◽  
Specialty Crops ◽  
Regional Specialization ◽  
Vulnerability To Climate Change ◽  
Climatic Sensitivity

A pressing question for climate change adaptation is whether ongoing transformations of the agricultural sector affect its ability to cope with climatic variations. We examine this question in the United States, where major increases in productivity have fueled most of agricultural production growth over the past half-century. To quantify the evolving climate sensitivity of the sector and identify its sources, we combine state-level measures of agricultural productivity with detailed climate data for 1960–2004. We find that agriculture is growing more sensitive to climate in Midwestern states for two distinct but compounding reasons: a rising climatic sensitivity of nonirrigated cereal and oilseed crops and a growing specialization in crop production. In contrast, other regions specialize in less climate-sensitive production such as irrigated specialty crops or livestock. Results suggest that reducing vulnerability to climate change should consider the role of policies in inducing regional specialization.

scholarly journals Simulating management effects on crop production, tile drainage, and water quality using RZWQM–DSSAT

Geoderma ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 140 (3) ◽  
pp. 297-309 ◽  
Author(s):  
S.A. Saseendran ◽  
L. Ma ◽  
R. Malone ◽  
P. Heilman ◽  
L.R. Ahuja ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Tile Drainage ◽  
Management Effects

Use of permeable, reservoir pavement constructions for stormwater treatment and storage for re-use

1999 ◽  
Vol 39 (5) ◽  
pp. 145-151 ◽  
Author(s):  
C. J. Pratt
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Urban Areas ◽  
Water Environment ◽  
Cost Savings ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Stormwater Treatment ◽  
Residential Areas ◽  
Materials Used ◽  
The Uk ◽  
The Impact

Permeable surfaces for roads and footpaths have been used as a means of disposal of stormwater in developed urban areas. Such surfaces provide an alternative to impermeable concrete or tarmacadam surfaces which would otherwise produce rapid stormwater runoff, leading to possible flooding and degeneration of receiving water quality through the uncontrolled discharge of polluted urban waters. A further advantage may be obtained from such constructions by undersealing them so as to retain stormwater for re-use for non-potable uses. The potential for general introduction of this type of storage and re-use system in residential areas is discussed and possible alternative designs for the drainage infrastructure proposed. To have widespread impact such a strategy must deliver cost savings as well as reduce the impact on the water environment of anticipated water usage demands. The source of such cost savings and the general environmental benefits of such systems will be presented. The materials used in such a sealed construction and the beneficial changes to the stored water quality are outlined. Recent work has also shown that where the pavement is used for car parking any oils dropped on the surface and washed into the structure by the stormwater may also be degraded. Details will be given of a site in the UK where the above construction is to be used to provide stormwater storage for re-use in flushing toilets at a Youth Hostel.

scholarly journals Mid storage seed hardening: a mechanical method to maintain seed viability during long term jute seed preservation

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 79-88
Author(s):  
Md. Nasir Uddin ◽  
S. M. Mahbub Ali ◽  
Md. Abu Sadat ◽  
Md Amazed Hossain Chowdhury ◽  
Israt Jahan Mumu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Crop Production ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
Seed Viability ◽  
Early Period ◽  
Chemical Properties ◽  
Seed Storage ◽  
Germination Percentage ◽  
Oil Degradation ◽  
Hardening Treatment

Seed plays an important role in agricultural sector for both production and consumption purpose. Availability of vigour seed is one of the major constraints for maximizing crop production. However, healthy seed can also lose its viability during seed storage by changing different physio-chemical properties. Influence of environmental factors and seed containers during storage leading to seed deterioration. In this research, mid storage seed hardening treatment was applied in different aged seeds of jute species (C. Capsularis & C. olitorius) with two types of storage bags. Seed hardening treatment showed the less moisture content with better germination percentage compared to the untreated species of jute seeds. Seed packing in polythene bags during both short and long term seed storages had higher viable seeds compared to the cloth packing seeds. The effect of seed hardening treatment on seed oil content and pattern of oil degradation is distinct in early period of storage. The faster rate of oil degradation, soluble protein and free amino acids was found in seeds of un-treated stored seeds in cloth bag. Contrary, very slow rate of oil degradation was observed in harden seed and stored in polythene bag which indicated better storability of harden seeds.

scholarly journals Some integrative management strategies to decrease doses of herbicides in agriculture

2017 ◽  
Vol 2 ◽  
pp. 31
Author(s):  
Salar Farhangi Abriz
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Food Safety ◽  
Nitrogen Content ◽  
Crop Production ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Agricultural Products ◽  
Main Target ◽  
Physicochemical Methods ◽  
Management Method ◽  
Integrative Management

<p>Over dose using of herbicides is one of the major problems in crops and horticulture productions. Human food safety and economical production of agricultural products are the main target of new agronomy and plant scientists. Integrative management is one of the new programs for reducing herbicide doses in agriculture. This program includes many physiological and physicochemical methods for controlling herbicide uses in farms and orchards. This article explain some of these methods such as using surfactants, water quality in spraying, using magnetic fields, controlling the nitrogen content of soil, using a suitable formulation and powerful cultivars and genotypes in agriculture and the effects of this reduction in herbicide doses on plants behavior and weeds controlling. According to this method integrative management can be beneficial in crop production and farmers must be using of this management method in their farms. </p>

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