Beginners Guide to Regenerative Agriculture and Why It Matters

Abstract

Modern agriculture has been built on the advancement of technology. Though these industrialized practices have increased the yield of many crops, concerns with the sustainability of certain practices have been raised. Some of these concerns are the environmental impact, resource depletion, impact on biodiversity, food quality, long term food security, and societal issues. Regenerative agriculture offers an alternative approach to standard conventional systems.

Regenerative agriculture is an approach that focuses on soil health and biodiversity to work with natural systems. These systems show promise with carbon sequestration, water conservation, and climate resilience. Though a more intensive system, the profitability of these systems can be a net positive for growers, as well as boost local economies through job creation.

Regenerative agriculture is a farming paradigm based on soil health principles. This approach to farming aims to build the soil and support or simulate natural ecosystems to sustain crop growth. The principles of soil health foster the essential functions of the soil by supporting both biotic and abiotic systems.

This creative component will act as a guide for both growers considering the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices and consumers interested in learning more about regenerative agriculture and for supporting its management approach. This guide intentionally provides a broad overview, serving as a starting point for interested parties, explaining the basics about the soil, and how regenerative agriculture supports healthy ecosystem functions. This work does not exist to validate or disprove concerns with current agricultural systems, rather it empowers readers with information to make informed farming decisions. Anyone interested in using this information is advised to conduct their own local research to better understand regenerative practices best suited for their location and cropping systems. The results of regenerative agricultural practices may vary depending on cropping systems and specific geographic locations.

Literature review was used to compile field research data, growers’ testimonies, and the ethical and intellectual insight posed by parties interested in regenerative practices for this guide. Personal photos and experiences will also be shared throughout this work, as I share the story of my own farming experiences that began in the fall of 2021.

This creative component primarily focuses on soil science, sustainability, and human health benefits, while aiming to present thought-provoking ideas on alternative systems of agriculture. It was written for consumers, producers, and other interested parties. The goal of this is to begin with the basic knowledge of different areas of soil science and expand into regenerative agricultural practices and the scientific research that supports beneficial claims.