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The research objectives are to:1) examine the efficacy of organic weed management approaches based on rotational disturbance and/or competition in systems dominated by perennial or annual weed populations; and 2) compare the effects of these management approaches on environmental quality indicators, pest and beneficial organisms, crop productivity, and economic indicators over multiple time scales. <P>The outreach objectives are to:1) Incorporate information on organic production into educational materials to support extension education; and 2) Disseminate information on organic production to producers, extension educators and other trainers, and agriculture related organizations.
Non-Technical Summary: Weed management is a priority for growers nationally, with the most common management tactic in organic systems being tillage. Intensive or frequent tillage can conflict with the goals of conservation of soil and water quality, and natural enemy and energy conservation. We will examine four organic crop production systems that balance weed suppression, beneficial arthropod conservation, environmental quality and profitability. <P> Approach: We will test the hypothesis that adverse impacts associated with tillage for weed management can be mitigated by alternating or rotating soil depleting activities with soil building activities to result in acceptable crop productivity, weed population dynamics, and biological, environmental and economic indicators at various temporal scales. Extension and outreach programs will be delivered to a broad audience, including farmers, students, agricultural professionals, and the general public. The effectiveness of outreach programs in changing knowledge levels and behaviors will be evaluated.