NRES faculty apply ecological theory and systems analysis to understand and manage farming, food, and bioenergy systems to produce needed basic, environmental, social, and economic services. Research in sustainable agriculture and agroecology is applied in nature and often relies on participatory methods that engage the farmers, community and business groups, or consumers. Related research draws on our strengths in soil, water, and microbial sciences to apply ecological principles to solve problems in agriculture and to determine how farming methods and conservation practices influence ecosystem services, disease-pest-antibiotic resistance, and climate mitigation.