Farms are the backbone of many modern societies. However, commercial farming practices are often poor examples of responsible land management. With a little planning, this can change and farms can help support community sustainability. Here are five ways to make your vision a reality.

1. Conserving water through responsible irrigation

Water is essential to agricultural operations. However, water levels are falling rapidly in much of the world. As a result, farmers interested in supporting community sustainability must find ways to conserve this valuable natural resource. Rethinking watering practices is one way to do this.

Surface irrigation, often used in commercial agriculture, wastes large amounts of water because it is directed over a large area. Other methods, such as drip irrigation, are much more water-efficient. Timers or a handy smart water valve can maximize the efficiency of such a system. In addition, the added convenience of remote water flow control frees up time to focus on other tasks.

Farmers can also see where their irrigation water comes from. Many farms use wells to feed irrigation systems. However, in many situations it is possible to collect rainwater for this purpose. Rainwater reuse reduces the load on local groundwater and can help improve sustainability efforts on commercial farms.

2. Integrating solar panels on pasture

Cultivated land is often ideal for collecting solar energy. Large open flat spaces are ideal for large solar panels. Combining solar panels with agriculture is known as agrivoltaic agriculture. Researchers have found that, contrary to popular belief, the panels can help improve the condition of the surrounding soil.

Solar panels shade the ground, which reduces water evaporation. Shade also creates a cooler environment, which is favorable for many plants. They also provide shelter to shepherds in the area. The Department of Energy has several great resources for farmers who want to learn more about using solar energy on their farms.

3. Crop diversification by adding trees

Trees can perform many of the same functions as solar panels. While the latter produces energy, the former can increase marketability and protect the landscape. For example, fruit and nut trees produce valuable goods in many regions. Trees also act as windbreaks and their roots stabilize the soil structure.

Mixed cropping is a prominent feature of sustainable agriculture, but it is hardly new. The practice has a long list of historical uses and has been practiced by many indigenous peoples who appreciate its ability to increase production without damaging the soil.


Intentional crop rotation and soil renewal

Intentional crop rotation can greatly support soil health. For example, it can improve the nutrient profile of the soil. It also reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and herbicides.

Creating the system that works best for your farm can take a lot of planning and trial-and-error planting. Unfortunately, this means you may not see the positive benefits for several years. However, crop rotation that is done to the bottom usually produces the desired result - healthier soil. The

Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems at the University of California has created a fact sheet to help farmers make informed crop rotation decisions that are worth researching.

5. Develop strong relationships with community stakeholders

Farms and farmers do not exist in a vacuum. They are essential parts of a community and are connected to many of its moving parts. Building strong relationships with community stakeholders, be they government officials, suppliers or customers, is critical to sustainable development. For example, by building a strong local customer base, farmers can reduce the amount of transportation needed to deliver products to consumers.

Most of the food we consume — from produce to animal products — comes from commercial farms. Therefore, improving sustainability can serve as an example for the rest of the community. In addition, entire communities can benefit from improving the sustainability of farms. Some examples include improving irrigation systems, integrating solar panels into fields, and improving soil through versatile crop selection and crop rotation.

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