Agro-ecology is the application of ecological principles to the production of food and fiber. The underlying goals are to assess and promote the long-term sustainability of agricultural production systems. Through this course we will study how agro-ecosystems vary across time and space and will examine the trade-offs associated with different cropping systems and management practices. We will begin with a brief history of major trends in agriculture, then examine the ecological interactions involved in crop production, observe how these interactions shape agricultural practices and conclude with a discussion of domestic and international government policies that influence agricultural sustainability. Graduate-level requirements include leading one class discussion and taking a more in-depth take-home midterm exam.