| Agricultural production can result in simplified plant communities, lower species diversity, and fragmented habitats. Farms in New Jersey's rural-urban fringe -- where residential, agricultural, and wild fragments intermingle and a range of land use is accommodated -- may offer an appropriate setting to enhance ecological function through landscape design. In particular, by applying principles of ecological design to small agricultural operations and hobby farms, ecological function, agricultural productivity and aesthetic value may all be enhanced. Through field experiments, research into historical land use and cover, in-depth analysis of present day natural features and processes, and exploration of case studies, a design was developed to enhance biodiversity, food production, and visual appeal on a one acre site in New Jersey's rural-urban fringe. |
