Agro EcoSystem Analysis for Natural Farming

About Book

Agro-Ecosystem Analysis for Natural Farming provides a comprehensive understanding of agro-ecosystems, their structure, functions, and management with special emphasis on sustainable and natural farming approaches. The book explains the concepts of systems, agro-ecosystem components, system hierarchy, and the interrelationships among biological, physical, and socio-economic factors influencing agriculture.

The text highlights the principles, properties, and types of agro-ecosystems, along with detailed discussions on agro-ecosystem analysis (AEA), energy flow, nutrient cycling, and sustainability assessment. It systematically presents tools, techniques, methodologies, and stepwise approaches used in agro-ecosystem analysis for effective agricultural planning and decision-making.

Special emphasis is given to participatory approaches such as Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA), Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), Participatory Learning and Action (PLA), Participatory Research and Management (PRM), and Participatory Technology Development (PTD). Designed for students, researchers, extension professionals, and practitioners, this book serves as a valuable resource for understanding ecological agriculture, community participation, sustainable farming systems, and natural farming-based rural development strategies.

About Author

Book Content

1. Introduction to Systems and Agro-Ecosystems

2. System Hierarchy and Components

3. Concept and Characteristics of Agro-Ecosystems

4. Properties of Agro-Ecosystems

5. Types of Agro-Ecosystems

6. Agro-Ecosystem Analysis (AEA): An Overview

7. Tools and Techniques in Agro-Ecosystem Analysis

8. Steps in Agro-Ecosystem Analysis

9. Methodology of Agro-Ecosystem Analysis

10. Energy Flow in Agro-Ecosystems

11. Agro-Ecosystem Analysis and Sustainable Agriculture

12. Participatory Approaches in Agriculture

13. Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA)

14. Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)

15. Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) and PLAM

16. Participatory Research and Management (PRM)

17. Participatory Planning Framework

18. Importance of Participation in Natural Farming

19. Principles of Participatory Extension

20. Participatory Technology Development (PTD)