*Ecology in agricultural landscapes: seeking solutions for food, water, wildlife* A compendium of agro-ecology sessions at the 2013 annual meeting of the Ecological Society of America
Agriculture alters the landscape more than any other human activity, with trickle-down effects on water, soil, climate, plant and wildlife diversity, wildfire, and human health. Crop and rangeland occupies nearly 40 percent of earth's ice-free land, and mountains and deserts make much of the remaining surface unwelcoming to agriculture. Our increasing population applies constant pressure for further conversion of wild lands to agricultural production. With yields plateauing in many parts of the world, managers, both private and public, are looking for new ideas to get the most out of agricultural lands, sustain production into the future, and protect natural resources. Multiple sessions will address the ecological study of agricultural systems at the Ecological Society of America's 98th Annual Meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota, August 4 - 9. Presenting scientists will examine routes to improved soil, water, and nutrient retention, pollinator support, and pest suppression by natural enemies. They will discuss opportunities to increase biodiversity in agricultural areas and mitigate runoff. Read the full press release: http://www.esa.org/esa/?p=8528 __________________________ __________________________ Liza Lester Communications Officer Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 211 [email protected] http://www.esa.org/esablog/ @esa_org __________________________
