Ecosystem Services:

An ecosystem service is the collective benefits from sources and processes supplied by natural resources. The agriculture industry specifically, is economically dependent on ecosystem services. Some of the vital services include “including pollination, biological pest control, maintenance of soil structure and fertility, nutrient cycling and hydrological services”. Biological pest control can directly substitute pesticides. This ecosystem service has saved farmers a minimum of $239 million from 2007-2008 towards stopping solely one pest. Overall, natural pest control is estimated to value 13.6 billion dollars annually. Studies show that insect predators account for around 33% of natural pest control; this means insects have been estimated at $4.5 billion dollars in pest control annually. Pollination is another important ecosystem service provided by the environment. Around 75% of crops specified for consumption require pollination primarily from insects. The economic impact of pollination on world food production in 162 countries has been estimated at $2.02 billion. Water quality and quantity is also a vital ecosystem service that drives the economy of the agricultural industry. Currently 70% of global water use goes to agriculture. The final ecosystem service works in conjunction with good water supply, well-aerated and nutrient rich soils are also fundamental to nutrient acquisition and water retention in crops. (Power)

To read Power's full essay: rstb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/365/1554/2959.full

       The Great Plains Aquifer(The High Plains Aquifer) is one example of an
        ecosystem service that is used for agriculture today. Many farmers in the
       Midwest draw water from the aquifer for irrigation.

Sources:

Power, Alison G. "Ecosystem Services and Agriculture: Tradeoffs and Synergies." Ecosystem Services and Agriculture:
             Tradeoffs and Synergies. Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Cornell University, 2010. Print.
Picture Source:
"Physical/Cultural Setting." USGS High Plains Aquifer WLMS:. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Dec. 2012.