Sustainable agriculture is proving to be a challenge for many growers. They are unsure of the definition of sustainable agriculture, how to integrate the concept into their farm management, and how to measure its value to their production bottom line. SureHarvest has developed a framework that growers, grower groups and companies can use to design, implement and measure sustainability performance. The framework is called SureHarvest's 5 Ps of sustainability. The model evolved out of SureHarvest's work with the California wine industry since 2002 and is designed to meet the challenges listed above. The presentation will discuss the evolution of the framework and the tools that have been developed to facilitate program implementation. This includes an on-line program management software platform that contains an on-line self-assessment workbook of sustainable farming practices, a reporting system for instant feedback on a grower's self-assessment and educational content in context on sustainable farming practices. SureHarvest has also been working with the Almond Board of California designing and implementing the California Sustainable Almond Program and with the California Cut Flower Commission developing a program for the sustainable production of cut flowers.  Lessons learned about the challenges of getting grower engagement in sustainability programs will be presented and discussed.

Sustainable agriculture: What is happening out on the farm?

248th National Meeting (2014)

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