Albert Howard

Sir Albert Howard (1873-1947) was an English botanist, an organic farming pioneer, and a principal figure in the early organic movement. He is often referred to as the father of modern organic[agriculture]].

He worked in India as agricultural advisor and to teach Western agricultural techniques he found that the Indians could in fact teach him more. One important aspect he took notice of was the connection between healthy soil and the villages' healthy populations, livestock and crop. Patrick Holden, Director of the UK [[Soil sociationHe was president of the 13th session of the Indian Science Congress in 1926. composting, for his refinement of a tradional Indian composting system into what is now known as the Indore method. He went on to document and develop organic farming techniques, and spread his knowledge through the UK-based Soil Association, and the Rodale Institute in the US. His 1940 book, An Agricultural Testament, is a classic organic farming text. His work influenced and inspired many farmers and agricultural scientists who furthered the organic movement, including Lady Eve Balfour (the Haughley Experiment, The Living Soil) and J.I. Rodale (Rodale Institute).