Which of the following practices is NOT encouraged by the CDFA for sustainable farming?

The practice that is not encouraged by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) for sustainable farming is the use of synthetic pesticides. This approach contrasts with sustainable farming principles, which advocate for methods that enhance environmental health and reduce harm to ecosystems.

Sustainable farming emphasizes practices that foster biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem balance. Crop rotation, for instance, improves soil structure and fertility while helping to control pests and diseases naturally by disrupting their life cycles. Soil conservation techniques, such as cover cropping and reduced tillage, prevent erosion, enhance water retention, and increase soil organic matter, contributing to overall sustainability and productivity in the long term. Integrated pest management (IPM) focuses on using a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical practices that minimize the use of synthetic pesticides and promote natural pest control.

In contrast, relying on synthetic pesticides can lead to negative consequences, including harm to non-target organisms, the development of pesticide-resistant pests, and potential soil and water contamination. Therefore, the CDFA encourages farming practices that promote sustainability and protect the environment rather than those primarily dependent on synthetic chemicals.