Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
example, through studies addressing alternative treatments to the use of medication like anti-
biotics and anthelmintics (i.e. preventive health and welfare). The need to develop research in
this field is by no means unique to organic farming, but since the latter relies on biological
solutions and less control, greater difficulties have to be confronted. Thus, preventive measures
become crucial. Since medication may imply that products cannot be sold as organic, alterna-
tives to such medication could have large economic consequences. Research needs in relation
to animal health and welfare in organic production have been addressed in the final report of
the Network for Animal Health and Welfare in Organic Agriculture (NAHWOA 2002).
Organic farming developed as a response to the dilemmas faced by conventional agricul-
ture, finding solutions transcending the context and creating new perspectives (Christensen
1998). This innovative approach and creativity continues to be required to create 'win-win'
situations beneficial both to the system and the individual animal. The challenge for organic
farming is to develop husbandry systems where animal welfare is an integrated and positive
part of the system and not seen as a problem to be solved; that is, systems where animals con-
tribute with products or services through their natural living (Lund and Weary 2004).
Conclusions
It is important not only to base statements regarding animal welfare on scientific research, but
also to be explicit as to how the concept of animal welfare is defined. This will make the dis-
cussion of criticism and general issues more constructive. In organic farming, animal welfare
is placed in a larger, 'systemic' perspective, and a natural life is usually seen as a precondition
for good welfare. However, the dilemma that natural living does not automatically imply
welfare for the individual animal must be recognised, just as feeding organic feed does not
necessarily contribute to improved quality of life. The limited research available does not
indicate that organic animals have worse health or welfare compared to animals in conven-
tional systems. Rather, there is a substantial potential for improved welfare in organic farming
systems. However, each production system faces particular challenges, and organic farming
must be observant and deal with the challenges linked to organic production (Hovi
et
al
. 2003,
Lund and Algers 2003). Problems and risks related to the lower control of the animal's envi-
ronment such as 'parasite-related diseases' is one such area.
Organic farming must be able to guarantee the welfare of organic animals both in theory
and in practice. This is necessary, considering the wellbeing of the animals as well as the
expectations and requirements of animal welfare in modern society. It is necessary to develop
systems where the health and welfare of the individual animal is safeguarded, even though
system sustainability is an overall goal, and where natural living coincides with welfare experi-
enced by each individual animal.
References
Alrøe, H.F., Vaarst, M. and Kristensen, E.S. 2001. Does organic farming face distinctive live-
stock welfare issues? - A conceptual analysis.
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AMS-USDA. 2000.
National
Organic
Programme:
Final
Rule
. Agricultural Marketing Service
Department of Agriculture. 7 CFR Part 205. Federal Register, December 21, 2000, 80548-
80684. Agricultural Marketing Service, United States Department of Agriculture,
Washington DC.
Balfour, E. 1943.
The
Living
Soil
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