United States
£ GBP
With predictions of a human population of more than nine billion by the middle of this century and eleven billion by 2100, we stand at a crossroads in our agricultural evolution. In this clear and engaging yet scientifically rigorous book, wildlife biologist John M. Marzluff takes a personal approach to sustainable agriculture.
He travels to farms and ranches across North and Central America, including a Nebraska corn and soybean farm, California vineyards, cattle ranches in Montana, and small sustainable farms in Costa Rica, to understand the unique challenges and solutions to sustainable food production. Agriculture and wildlife can coexist, he argues, if farmers are justly rewarded for conservation; if future technological advancements increase food production and reduce food waste; and if consumers cut back on meat consumption. Beginning with a look backwards at our evolutionary history and concluding with practical solutions for change that will benefit farmers and ranchers, Marzluff provides an accessible and insightful study for the ecologically minded citizen, farmer, rancher, or conservationist.
John M. Marzluff is professor of environmental and forest sciences at the University of Washington and is the author or coauthor of several books, including In the Company of Crows and Ravens; Dog Days, Raven Nights; and Welcome to Subirdia. He lives in Snowhomish, WA.
"An eloquent, science-based perspective on how meadowlarks and cows, owls and vineyards, and other wildlife and agricultural practices can co-exist and provide abundant and healthy food. A must-read for everyone."
– Bernd Heinrich, author of The Snoring Bird
"In Search of Meadowlarks provides great insights into complex issues concerning sustainability and the environment."
– Temple Grandin, author of Animals Make Us Human
"John Marzluff's book is well-written, thoughtful, and timely, especially when biodiversity is in drastic decline."
– Alexis Racelis, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
"John Marzluff takes us beyond abstract discussions of agriculture and shows how different approaches to farming directly affect families and local communities, as well as economic productivity and biological diversity."
– Robert Askins, author of Saving the World's Deciduous Forests and Restoring North America's Birds
"The way farming affects wildlife is one of the most urgent problems facing humanity. John Marzluff has produced a wise, readable and – above all – optimistic look at the issues."
– Professor Tim Birkhead, University of Sheffield, and author of The Wonderful Mr Willughby: The First True Ornithologist
"John Marzluff has followed meadowlarks to find inspiring stories of renewal and hope, and through them we can find our way forward."
– Curt Meine, author of Aldo Leopold: His Life and Work
"John Marzluff's In Search of Meadowlarks is an epic look at the deep connections between us, the birds we love best, and our food supply. It's a rich tapestry of meadowlarks and farmers, crows and cows, science and story. If you love songbirds, enjoy a great read, or eat food, you really need to read this book."
– Sy Montgomery, author of Birdology, The Soul of an Octopus, and How to Be a Good Creature
"Excellent [...] a rare offering on the subject of agriculture and sustainability within the farming industry [...] Highly recommended for all interested in agriculture, ranching, natural history, conservation, sustainability, and ecology."
– Library Journal
