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A Case for Agricultural Systems Research

College of Natural Resources, Univ. of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Stevens Point, WI 54481;

D. R. Keeney

Dep. of Agronomy, Iowa State Univ., Ames, IA 50011.

^* Corresponding author.

ABSTRACT

Agricultural science is a complex and multidisciplinary field that represents the vital link between human (socioeconomic) systems and the natural environment. Development of effective strategies for efficient farm resource allocation and management requires a general understanding of the fundamental components of farming systems and their interactions, and properly begins with the analysis of farm manager goals and limitations. This article defines important systems concepts and discusses the role of systems theory in agricultural research and problem solving. In addition, several agricultural systems examples are described and a systems method is used to identify and discuss the components and general goals of agricultural systems. We believe to the extent that it is utilized, systems theory provides a powerful tool to assist those involved in agricultural research, education, and production in understanding complex interactions among system components and component technologies, and in identifying and prioritizing information or research needs.

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