California is the largest producer of fresh strawberries consumed in the United States, accounting for over 75% of the US supply, which is valued at more than $300 million annually. Input costs are very high (more than $20,000 per acre) and 98% of input energy comes from nonrenewable sources. To secure a return on this large investment in inputs, conventional producers rely on preplant fumigation with methyl bromide, plastic mulch, drip irrigation, preplant chilling, fertilization with slow-release nutrients, foliar applications of synthetic pesticides and concentrated semipermanent hand labor throughout the growing season. Nevertheless, conventional grower profits are usually high ($2,000 - $6,000 per acre in 1994). Though organic strawberry yields are 25% lower than in conventional systems and organic systems also require high energy inputs, organic systems are not chemical intensive, and more than 43% of energy inputs from renewable sources. 

Both conventional and organic systems return less energy in harvestable products than the amount of energy that they require for inputs. The primary factor that distinguishes these systems is their use of nonrenewable resources and toxic industrial chemicals in the quest for higher yields. Strawberries can be produced more safely and efficiently using organic techniques, but only if farmers focus less on high yields and more on the need to reduce dependence on costly, nonrenewable sources of energy and environmentally-hazardous inputs like methyl bromide. In the past, premiums of up to 50 percent have been attained for organic strawberries, so that organic strawberry profits range from $3,000 - $10,000 per acre for organic strawberries, compared to $2,000 - $6,000 per acre for conventional strawberries (Gliessman et al. 1996).  

Use Renewable Resources

Organic strawberries use considerably less non-renewable sources than conventional systems.

Minimize Toxics

Organic strawberry production eliminates the use of toxic chemicals, like methyl bromide, that harm the environment and health of farmers, farm workers and the general population.

Conserve Resources

Dependence on off-farm energy sources can be reduced with the elimination of chemical fertilizers, aracnacides, insecticides, fungicides, soil fumigants and energy-intensive applications techniques.

Manage Ecological Relationships

The continued use of organic practices over time enhances beneficial biota in the soil. Pests, diseases and weeds can be managed instead of "controlled" which is common practice in conventional strawberry production.

Maximize Long-Term Benefits

The use of methyl bromide worldwide is now mandated by international agreements, so that organic or other practices must replace conventional ones over the long-term.

Value Health

Eliminating methyl bromide is essential for human and environmental health. This is more important than high yields and profits.