Agroecology

Agroecology means farming in ways that not only produce hearty harvests and healthy animals but also apply a healing touch to the earth. Heifer defines agroecology as socially, culturally, economically, politically and ecologically sustainable agricultural production achieved through the use and management of natural resources to provide food and other products and enhance environmental functions and ecosystem integrity that protect the biosphere. Agroecology is fundamental to Heifer’s mission of building communities of people who consider taking care of the environment almost as second nature. By combining elements of ecology (conserving natural resources) with sustainable agriculture that uses a balance of livestock and plants to fulfill the needs of both man and nature, Heifer is assisting people in need in becoming more self – reliant. Some key elements of Heifer’s agro-ecology work are:

• Sustainable agricultural techniques that replenish the earth’s natural resources (using organic fertilizer to improve soil; terracing hillside farms to prevent erosion etc.);

• Appropriate technologies to increase crop yields without requiring expensive infrastructure improvements;

• Livestock integration in which plants and animals coexist on farms for the betterment of each. Animals produce manure that is used as fertilizer to help crops grow; plant materials that are inedible by humans can be fed to ruminants as fodder without using grains better used to feed people;

• Promotion of biodiversity through the planning of indigenous crops, protects local ecosystems, and avoids the risks and expense of genetically engineered plants;

• Improving water and soil quality by protecting water supplies, monitoring water quality and terracing steep hillsides to prevent erosion;

• Use of biogas as an alternative to firewood;

• Reforestation of deforested areas improves air and water quality, making local ecosystems healthier and more resilient to stress.

One farmer can’t change the earth’s ecology, but Heifer, with its emphasis on working through local communities throughout Ukraine, can have a significant impact. Over the long – term, sustainable agricultural practices will:

• Satisfy food and fiber needs and contribute to fodder, fuel and pharmaceutical requirements;

• Enhance environmental quality and the natural resource base, upon which the agricultural economy depends;

• Make the most use of non–renewable resources and on – farm resources;

• Integrate natural biological cycles and controls;

• Sustain economic viability of farm operations and livelihoods;

• Enhance the quality of life for farmers and society/consumers as a whole.