This paper provides an economic analysis that compares the profitability and land management capability of four different organic cropping systems used to produce winter squash (Cucurbita pepo cv. ‘Delicata’) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata cv.’ Farao’). The organic cropping systems are part of a long term experiment designed for vegetable production in the Northeast, and designed to maintain ecological integrity and contribute to environmental stewardship. Our research addresses the causal chain from soil processes to economic outcomes including soil quality, efficiency in cycling of nutrients, off-farm impacts, pressures from weeds, insects and diseases, crop yield and quality, and marketing opportunities. Interactive crop budgets were... |