burning fields

Burning is done to burn off residue, control pests and diseases and destroy weeds, farmers feel field burning increases productivity and balk at stopping.

it can take a very serious toll on asthma sufferers, I believe they have been doing research to find alternatives because the dangers to those with asthma and allergies is so great.

It's basically a quick way to clear off a field and make way for new growth. Especially on something like asparagus, where mowing and raking can damage the crowns if you aren't careful to avoid running over them with a tractor.

We have done it to rid a fallow field of weeds. While not the most environmentally concious thing to do, it certainly beats dusting 5 acres with several doses of herbicide (which was the other plan. hey, it's not my farm)