Comparison of Organic and Conventional Soybean Production in Arkansas.

With the increasing demand for organic soy products and and increased premium of organic soybeans, this study was developed to compare the common soybean systems in the Mid South. Organic Soybean Production relies heavily on early mechnical weed control, later planting dates, and quick canopy closure to aide in the growth of the plants and to ensure a greater pest free environment. Organic production is not a common practice seen on large scale production farms in the Mid South, where producers rely on pesticide usage for weed, insect and disease control. This study compares Liberty Link, Round Up Ready, Conventional and Organic Production systems. With in this study, comparisons of common fertility and weed control related to each production system will also be noted to give an idea of estimated cost difference between the production systems.