Abstract: Based on the analysis of the coercing and dynamic evolution relationships between agro-economic system and agro-ecological system, and by using modified entropy method, the weight of each evaluation index for the agro-ecolomic system in Changwu County of Shaanxi Province was determined, and, by employing coupling degree model, the coupling processes of agro-ecolomic system in the gullyarea of Loess Plateau were investigated. From 1949 to 2008, the agro-ecolomic system in the County experienced three stages of “traditional extensive agriculture”, “agricultural mechanization”, and “agricultural pre-modernization”. In corresponding to the implement of national macro policies, the coupling degree of the agro-ecolomic system reached two peaks standing for utmost increasing phase and three valleys standing for coordinate development phase. Periods 1955-1961 and 1984-1992 were the utmost increasing phases of the coupling degree; periods 1962-1965 and 1981-1983 were the rapid transition periods responding to the national-wide policies controlling; while periods 1949-1954 and 1966-1980 were the low-level coordinated development phases. Since 1993, the system had been in the harmonious phase by a spiral development. At present, the system had a potential risk of changing from the harmonious phase to the utmost development phase. Appropriate agricultural policies and better external environment could promote the stable development of the agro-ecolomic system on a harmonious level; otherwise, a retrogressive system might be expected.

Key words: agro-ecological system, agro-economic system, coupling degree, gully area of Loess Plateau, Changwu County