Organic farming: Implication of therapeutic strategies Flashcards
What is organic farming
Organic Agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems, and people. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. Organic Agriculture combines tradition, innovation, and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fair relationships and good quality of life for all involved.
Organic vs. Regenerative – what’s the difference?
“Regenerative Agriculture” describes farming and grazing practices that, reverse climate change by rebuilding soil organic matter and restoring degraded soil biodiversity – resulting in both carbon drawdown and improving the water cycle.
Animals slaughtered for meat have to be born and raised as organic (T/F)
True
What UK regulations (in terms of plans) are required to convert to organic farming
UK regulations require a herd/flock health plan detailing health & disease control measures, preferably with vet
What is the key idea of herd/flock health planning
Plan must ensure the development of a pattern of health building and disease control measures appropriate to the particular circumstances of the individual farm and allow for the evolution of a farming system progressively less dependent on allopathic veterinary medicinal products
Outline use of complementary therapies (homeopathy) in organic farming
Complementary therapies (i.e. homoeopathy) to be used ‘if effective’
If not, then under veterinary guidance use veterinary medicines
What is not allowed in organic farming
Preventive treatments are prohibited
i.e. blanket antimicrobial dry cow therapy
No herd/flock based repro treatments
i.e. no synchronisation of heats
No growth promoters
Strategic therapy use is not allowed in organic farming i.e. a strategic worming dose (T/F)
False! It is allowed
Vaccination is not allowed in organic farming
False! It is allowed
National / international disease control measures allowed in organic farming (T/F)
True!
Outline the use of Organophosphates (pesticies) in organic farming
Organophosphates (OP’s) only allowed if no other option and qualified user
But, OP’s not allowed by Soil Association
Outline the use of 3rd & 4th generation cephalosporins & fluoroquinolones
Restrictions on 3rd & 4th generation cephalosporins & fluoroquinolones
This is now becoming industry standard across all aspects of farming
Outline withdrawal period in organic farming
2-3 times withdrawal period on treatments
Depends on Certification body
Zero withdrawal on datasheet = 48hrs organically
What does ‘>3-strikes and you’re out’ refer to in organic farming
(>3 courses of treatment per year)
One course if animal is destined to be killed <1 year old
Key idea in organic sheep farming
MUST have good quality product – is not enough to just be organic
Lower stocking rates, but similar to conventional
Grassland management
Flock-based veterinary advice to deal with parasites
