A multi-scale approach for determining a balance between forage production and biodiversity in a grassland agroecosystem

Agri-environmental measures have not been able to halt the decline of biodiversity in agricultural systems. Agricultural practices aimed at preserving diversity on a field scale appear to be deficient. This study models the interactions between grazing/mowing practices and the ecological dynamics of two grassland bird species (Northern Lapwing and Common Redshank) at three nested spatial scales (field, farm and landscape). On a field scale, grazing periods and intensity determine the balance between production and conservation. Optimal ecological performance is achieved at intermediate production levels. On a farm scale, the extent of different agricultural practices determines this balance. Nevertheless, bird conservation always carries a cost in terms of production. On a landscape scale, the spatial layout of land use is also taken into account in determining this balance.