Conclusions

Abstract

Cooperation between agricultural and conservation biologists is imperative to ensure continued production of high quality food and fiber for all the earth's peoples, and to protect biological diversity. This article outlines ideas and needs expressed by participants in the workshops on conservation biology and agriculture. In the areas of general biology, there is an enormous need for research in basic and applied genetics and related technologies. In the area of exploited lands, research is needed on a wide variety of topics relative to biodiversity and the management for biological diversity on rangelands, forested lands, and wetlands. Habitat requirements of native species need to be better understood as do the interrelationships of native communities and species with adjacent agricultural activities or urban centers. A series of questions on park design and management need to be researched and modeled. Research is needed on the effects of grazing systems on natural plant and animal diversity and changes in grazing practices as well as on natural grazing patterns by indigenous fauna and livestock grazing patterns in relation to biodiversity. Other areas where research is needed include restoration techniques and their effectiveness, the role of climatic change in plant/animal interactions and its relationship to agriculture, design of forest management systems, harvesting techniques, and mixed agroforestry systems. In the area of wetland biology and management, research is needed on the improvement of degraded wetlands and on longterm monitoring of regenerated wetlands. Government policies need to be examined with respect to biological, environmental and economic impacts. Traditional agricultural systems and the importance of traditional knowledge systems need to be linked to agricultural development programs. Research is needed in the design, implementation, monitoring, and effects of agricultural policies. Research priorities and longterm goals for sustainability need to be determined. Policy research is needed on how principles of conservation biology can contribute to sustainable agriculture.