Ecological rice farming (SRI) increases crop yields while decreasing water usage and costs
"SRI methodology is based on four main principles that interact with each other: Early, quick and healthy plant establishment Reduced plant density Improved soil conditions through enrichment with organic matter Reduced and controlled water application ... "The benefits of SRI have been demonstrated in over 50 countries (see map). They include: 20%-100% or more increased yields, up to a 90% reduction in required seed, and up to 50% water savings. SRI principles and practices have been adapted for rainfed rice as well as for other crops (such as wheat, sugarcane and teff, among others), with yield increases and associated economic benefits."
Source: “SRI Rice,” SRI International Network and Resource Center, Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, accessed April 24, 2014, http://sri.ciifad.cornell.edu/.nt-is-small...