What is agro-ecological restoration?

Farmers throughout the world have long sought to maintain, improve and cultivate soils to acheive a productive balance of organic matter, fertility and water holding capacity.  This was a necessity long before ecological restoration was conceived of.  Prior to industrial agriculture these practices were the norm.  Today, this type of common sense land management is seen as an alternative.  The conservation of soil, water and ecological processes form the foundation of what we now refer to as agro-ecosystems.  Likewise, these resources are an essential part of maintaining healthy and diverse natural ecosystems.

Agro-ecological restoration draws upon the sciences of natural systems such as ecology and geomorphology as well as principles of design and management from permaculture, agroforestry and indigenous agriculture.  This approach recognizes that people must be beneficial participants in healthy and dynamically stable ecosystems.  Our own welfare is inextricably linked to that of the ecosystems and watersheds we live in.

Agro-ecological restoration is a synthesis of contemporary science and ancient wisdom.  It is the cultivation of harmony among biotic communities, watershed health and the sustainable yield of renewable resources.  Agro-ecological restoration blends  conservation and cultivation  to create and maintain  healthy,  diverse and productive habitats for plants, wildlife and people alike.

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