According to the USDA National Agricultural Library, it is believed the term "sustainable agriculture" was first introduced in 1978 by geneticist, Wes Jackson. "Since natural ecosystems have stood the test of time, they should serve as models for sustainable agriculture," stated Jackson. Sustainable agriculture was addressed by Congress in the 1990 Farm Bill. They determined that sustainable agriculture means an integrated system of plant and animal production practices having a site-specific application that will, over the long term: - Satisfy human food and fiber needs. - Enhance environmental quality and the natural resource base upon which the agricultural economy depends. - Make the most efficient use of nonrenewable resources and on-farm resources and integrate, where appropriate, natural biological cycles and controls. - Sustain the economic viability of farm operations. - Enhance the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole.
Sustainable agriculture integrates three main goals: - Environmental health - Economic profitability - Social and economic equity
Sustainability rests on the principle that we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Therefore, stewardship of both natural and human resources is of prime importance. (http://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/pubs/agnic/susag.shtml/)
Vinetenders' Methods
Subsoiling between vineyard rows
Vinetenders has developed sustainable viticultural methods incorporating the 30 year-old philosophy. Promoting deep, long term sustainability in all vineyards, Vinetenders is conscious not only of the impact of the practices on the environment, but the identifiable result in exceptional fruit quality.
Vinetenders employs numerous practices to achieve the commitment to sustainability:
- Cover crop planted between the rows to conserve water, mitigate compaction , reduce erosion and insect problems and increase soil health. - Pest management strategy that is not harmful to the natural systems. Vinetenders constantly monitors the vineyards eliminating opportunities for pest threats before problems occur. - Maintaining eco-friendly vineyard perimeters. Vineyard management does not stop with the vines but incorporates the surrounding forests, meadows and natural habitat.
The Future
Hyland Vineyard covercrop
Developed through research and practical application, Vinetenders' sustainable viticultural program has proven effective in the past, present, and will carry into the future. Careful site layout incorporates the natural environment promoting and maintaining an "agroecosystem" of soil, plants, insects and animals. Our current practices protect and nurture the environment and provide long-term sustainability.
