Open AccessA comparison of the organic and conventional livestock farming systems of Avalon Farming in West Otago
Author(s) -
A. Richardson
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
proceedings of the new zealand grassland association
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1179-4577
pISSN - 0369-3902
DOI - 10.33584/jnzg.2006.68.2640
Subject(s) - organic farming , agriculture , intensive farming , mixed farming , natural farming , livestock , mainstream , extensive farming , agroforestry , dryland farming , agricultural science , production (economics) , ecological farming , business , agricultural economics , environmental science , geography , economics , forestry , archaeology , macroeconomics , philosophy , theology
Organic farming in New Zealand is not considered a mainstream option for farmers. This paper compares organic and conventional farms running side by side at Avalon Farming and details why Avalon Farming is expanding its organic area. Included in the paper are details of the conversion to organic farming and its success. Topics include: 1. Challenges of converting from a conventional to an organic system. 2. Comparing conventional and organic production and the financial returns. 3. Marketing options for organic farmers in New Zealand including the growth of farmers markets.