Poster

Title: An Index of Farm Health Reflecting Food Production, Biodiversity, and Ecosystem Services

Authors:
Ron J. Johnson, Clemson University, Department of Foresty and Natural Resources
John E. Quinn, University of Nebraska- Lincoln, School of Natural Resources
James R. Brandle, University of Nebraska- Lincoln, School of Natural Resources
Robert F. Baldwin, Clemson University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

Abstract:
Basic needs shared by current and future generations necessitate a reliable and sustainable food supply, a biologically diverse world, and functioning ecosystem services.  A Healthy Farm Index (HFI) is being developed as part of broader research in organic agroecosystems initiated at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, now joined by Clemson University.  The index seeks to assess farm health based on measures of farm production, biodiversity, and associated ecosystem services that underpin rural landscapes. The HFI structure uses 12 indicators as measures of four ecosystem service components. Initial measures of the Biodiversity Enhancement component are based on bird and insect surveys and associated vegetation data evaluated at field, farm, and landscape scales; the second year of data collection on 27 Nebraska farms has been completed. The Environmental Enhancement component measures soil and water protection through land cover and land use. Food and Fiber Production and Quality of Life components are based on data provided by participating farmers.  The Index structure allows other components to be added. Results of the assessment can be clearly demonstrated through numerical scores or simple bar graphs.  Clemson University research will contribute relevant and unique data from southeastern farms and additional life forms as indicators of ecosystem services and water quality.  The Healthy Farm Index will be a mechanism for integrating and communicating interdisciplinary data toward farm practices and policy that optimize food production, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.