Although they all have a common base, they often differ in details, depending on the ecological and economic conditions that exist in the region. For example, in some standards, certain fertilizers and pesticides are permitted even though they may have detrimental effects on beneficial soil organisms, natural pest control agents and wildlife. In many cases, our understanding of the ecology of a pest or production system has not advanced to the point where we can assure a productive and profitable system without using such products over the short term. As described above, the sustainable agriculture movement is very diverse, so each set of standards is also a compromise between the different schools of thought. What has become increasingly clear to a growing number of agricultural professionals in the last few years is that good agronomy is based on an understanding of ecology.
Many schools now offer undergraduate and graduate programs in ecological agriculture.
Macdonald College will be offering a 24-course Minor in Ecological Agriculture starting in September 1989. Laval is beginning a program entitled Agriculture and Environment. Guelph is developing a course, and a number of community colleges across the country are also investigating possible offerings in this area. Conclusion Sustainable agriculture approaches are being adopted throughout North America at a rapidly increasing rate. Governments are introducing legislation and programs to support these initiatives.