I saw this summary at ArsTechnica and thought I'd share it with the group. Compared to conventional agriculture, organic agriculture is many times over better for the environment, is sustainable and produces higher quality food.

'Perfect storm' brewing for agriculture according to the Sustainable Development Commission
19/02/2008 14:30:00
FWi

Agriculture is entering a period of monumental change and investment in sound science will be essential if food security is to be achieved.

Later, the empty discomfort I experience in the silence of my studio is washed away by the flickering light and canned laughter coming from my TV and the buzz entering my brain as I finish my third beer. During a commercial, I hit mute on the remote control and stare blankly out the window. I find myself thinking…just what is reality? What is the truth of my life?

Here's a dumb question:  I've read a little about the evils of factory farming and how most cows are raised on feedlots eating corn and cow brains, but I've been wondering why the sight of cattle grazing in fields is so common.  What percentage of the average cow's diet is grass?  How much time do cows normally spend in fields?  What exactly does "grass fed beef" mean?  Is there some kind of standard or does it mean whatever the farmer wants it to mean?  Hopefully you all can answer some of my questions or least point me in the right direction.  Thanks

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There is a new wheat fungus that appears to be heading for Egypt, then the middle east and India. Scientists have a strain of wheat that is resistant, but it will take 5 to 8 years before they can breed enough to plant.