(a) As used in this section, "sustainable" includes without limitation:
(1) Science-based practices supported by research; and
(2) The use of technology that is demonstrated to lead to broad, outcomes-based performance improvements that:
(A) Meet the needs of the present; and
(B) Improve the ability of future generations to meet their needs while advancing progress toward environmental, social, and economic goals and the well-being of agricultural producers and rural communities.
(b) Sustainable agriculture may use continuous improvement principles with goals that include without limitation:
(1) Increasing agricultural productivity;
(2) Improving human health through access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food; and
(3) Enhancing agricultural and surrounding environments, including without limitation water, soil, and air quality, biodiversity, and habitat preservation.
(c) (1) The Arkansas Agriculture Department and the State Plant Board shall interpret any administrative rule or regulation promulgated by a state or federal agency that establishes standards for harvesting or producing agricultural crops in accordance with the definition and guidelines provided in this section.
(2) This section does not apply to silviculture and any rules or regulations regarding silviculture.
Section: 2-1-102Last modified: November 15, 2016