Organic systems are more labor intensive than conventional systems. This higher labor requirement is most often attributed to the increased time monitoring and managing pests. Washington State research statistics indicate that labor hours per acre can be as much as 11% higher for agronomic crops. The increase can be much greater for horticultural crops. Economic Considerations Organic crops can receive price premiums of anywhere from 10% to 200% (or more) over conventionally grown products, according to the USDA Economic Research Service. Although production costs for organic crops can be higher, organic growers typically obtain higher net profits due.
