There is active research on the role of water in such habitats, issues of water resources, and policies for water protection. At the level of crop and livestock systems, research into spatial and temporal associations of species relates to the modelling and assessment of intercropping with the concomitant effects on crop pests, pathogens and weeds, and the role of livestock in sustainable production. Research at this hierarchical level is often linked to the farm enterprise or farming family, and the markets and livelihoods that structure their productive and reproductive activities. The integration of natural and social scientists within the group allows for the analysis of socio-economic, as well as scientific and technical aspects of sustainable agriculture. Many of our current projects employ participatory research and development techniques, which are especially important for identifying and developing 'pro-poor uptake pathways' for production enhancing systems and techniques.
All agricultural production takes place in the context of wider natural and social environments.
Further areas of research are defined by the linkages between agricultural activities and the landscapes and socio-economic environments that they shape and are shaped by. Projects are being undertaken to assess the impact of agriculture and agri-environmental policy uptake on landscape character. Other projects investigate the dynamics that link together environmental change with livelihood strategies, public policy and markets. The contribution of nutrition in improving animal health and performance has been and is extensively studied. Research has taken an integrative approach and has examined the effects of food intake on growth, production and reproductive performance, and the physiological mechanisms mediating these effects.