A Natural Approach to Human Pathogen Suppression: Can Biodiversity Fill in the GAPs?

Matthew S. Jones 
PhD Candidate, Washington State University 

Matthew Jones presents alternatives to one-crop agricultural practices. He starts by explaining that research has shown that when there is a lack of diversity caused by human cultivation, there are more pathogens, including insect outbreaks. Jones then lists the different types of diversity that some farmers are using and their benefits. He discusses and shares photographs of techniques that are starting to be used, including intercropping, companion planting, hedgerows, agroforestry, riparian habitat restoration, animal/plant interactions, and others. Not only are these techniques more environmentally sound, Jones says, but they can help farmers gain more ecological and economic stability. 

Recorded: October 2, 2015