Pimentel, DavidHepperly, PaulHanson, JamesDouds, DavidSeidel, Rita2016-04-192016-04-192005Bioscience 55(7): 573-5820006-3568http://hdl.handle.net/10919/65479Metadata only recordSince 1981, the Rodale Institute Farming Systems Trial (FST) has compared organic and conventional grain-based farming systems. The results presented here represent a 22-year study of these farming systems, based on environmental impacts, economic feasibility, energetic efficiency, soil quality, and other performance criteria. The information from this trial can be a tool for developing agricultural policies more in tune with the environment while increasing energy efficiency and economic returns.text/plainen-USCarbon sequestrationGreen manure cropsSoil erosionSoil fertilityNutrient recyclingSoil organic matterOrganic farmingWater qualityConventional agricultureEconomic comparisonEnergetic comparisonEcosystem Farm/Enterprise ScaleAbstract