Organic farms use no man-made chemicals to increase crops or control insects and disease and organic fields produce fewer crops, on average, than other fields. However, agricultural scientists in Switzerland have displayed the long-term effect of organic farming methods, that is, the organic methods improved the health of the soil and used half as much energy.

The Swiss scientists compared the effects of organic and traditional farming methods over a period of more than twenty years. They grew crops on four fields of land in Switzerland. Two fields were grown using traditional farming methods. The others were grown using organic farming methods. The crops and soil use were similar in all the fields studied.

The study found that the organic fields produced about 20% fewer crops than the other fields. However, the farmers used less fertilizer (化肥) and energy on the organic fields. They found the organic fields were healthier.

The scientists say the organic fields have more nutrients in the soil. The soils in the organic fields also have more biological activity than the other fields. The organic fields have more helpful organisms and a larger number of different organisms. The organic fields have almost two times as many insects, including helpful insects. In traditional farming, chemicals designed to kill harmful insects also kill helpful ones.

The researchers say the findings show that organic crop production rates change little over time, and that soil fertility increases. They say the findings suggest that organic farms can help the environment by increasing soil fertility.

Organic farming is becoming increasingly popular in some countries. Many people believe that eating organic food is more healthful than eating food grown with chemicals. Some people are willing to pay more money to buy organic food.

【小题1】What does the study show about the organic methods?

A．They have more output than other fields.

B．They use more energy than traditional ones.

C．They benefit human health and nature.

D．They can control diseases without using chemicals.

【小题2】In what way do the researchers carry out the experiment?

A．Selecting the best seeds.	B．Applying different methods.
C．Using the latest technology.	D．Planting crops in special soils.

【小题3】What does paragraph 4 mainly talk about concerning organic fields?

A．Its shortage.

B．Its products.

C．Its application.

D．Its strengths.

【小题4】What can we infer from the text?

A．Organic farming is environment-friendly.

B．No insects exist in organic fields.

C．People can’t afford organic food at present.

D．Organic crop production rate increases rapidly.