The first year of BIFS in Rice posed unique challenges and problems, accompanied by several successes. Summaries and results of each practice employed are individually provided below.
In the end, success of the BIFS in Rice project may not be measured by the widespread adoption of sustainable practices in the near term. Instead, the proliferation of alternative production practices on the farms of BIFS participants would be a worthy measure of success. One fully integrated farm operation would clearly exemplify the rationale of sustainable agriculture to the community at large and serve as a model for other growers.
Summary of 1999 alternative practices
Reduced Nitrogen
Deep Water for Watergrass Control
Dry-down for Broadleaf Control
Dry Seeding
Drill Seeding
Organic
Cover Crops