J. B. Dent Libri

Focusing on the unique characteristics of agricultural systems, this book addresses the need for an introductory text that integrates systems research with agricultural science, technology, and management. It emphasizes the interplay between biological, social, and economic elements, advocating for a systems approach to enhance efficiency in agricultural practices. The text covers fundamental concepts and methodologies, including the development and use of computer-based simulation models, while also discussing the challenges of integrating these systems in research and extension efforts.

The Farming Systems Research and Extension approach adopts a multidimensional perspective and has been widely used to bring about rural change in many developing countries. The approach has traditionally been less used in Europe where research has tended to concentrate on increasing production. However, with the current emphasis within the European Union on restricting surpluses and on environmental and social protection, circumstances are more appropriate to the farming systems approach. Changes to rural infrastructures and agricultural production in Central and Eastern Europe may also favor the approach.This book is the first to define the issues of farming systems research as they might be applied within a European context and extended to rural systems as a whole. Contributions are included from the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Denmark, Netherlands, Finland, Estonia and Greece.