Agroforestry describes a system or a collection of regenerative practices that integrate tree cultivation with crops or livestock in a single land management unit. This approach can optimize the benefits derived from both agriculture and forestry practices. By strategically combining trees, crops, and animals it is possible to create regenerative and productive farming systems that can also conserve natural resources while maintaining or improving climate resilience.
History of Agroforestry
Agroforestry practices have existed for hundreds of years and span a diversity of regions and cultures. Indigenous and farming communities have a long history of employing agroforestry techniques to meet their diverse needs. Today there is a renewed interest in learning about and incorporating these practices as a way to conserve species and open land, provide benefits to agricultural plantings and livestock, diversify economic benefit and improve quality of life.
Key Components of Agroforestry Systems
Trees
Trees are a crucial element of agroforestry systems. They provide a wide range of timber and non-timber forest products. Trees also provide additional benefits such as shade, nutrient cycling, windbreaks, erosion control, and habitat for beneficial insects and birds. The selection of tree species should consider the local climate, soil conditions, and compatibility with crops and livestock.
Crops
Agroforestry systems integrate crops within the tree canopy, on the edges of farmsteads (or croplands? I didn’t want to use the word “plantation” as it has some historically negative associations in the US), or in between tree rows. Depending on design, arrangement and space among trees or tree rows, crop selection should be compatible with the shade tolerance of tree species and must take into account market demand, local agricultural practices, and resource availability.
Livestock
Integrating livestock into agroforestry systems can provide additional economic and ecological benefits. Animals contribute to cycle nutrients, control weeds and pests, and enhance soil fertility through their manure. Livestock selection and management should consider the compatibility with tree species and crop production.
Agroforestry System Design & Arrangements
Alley Cropping
In alley cropping systems, rows of trees are planted with crops grown in the spaces between them. This approach provides shade for the crops while allowing sufficient light penetration for growth. Alley cropping can integrate commodity crops or hay/fodder production.
Silvopasture
Silvopasture involves integrating trees with grazing livestock. This system combines the benefits of timber and/or non-timber forest production, forages, and grazing management. Silvopastoral practices can be commonly adopted in beef and dairy production, as well as sheep, goat, pig, and poultry farming.
Forest Farming
Forest farming involves cultivating high-value specialty crops beneath a managed forest canopy. This system allows farmers to produce non-timber forest products such as mushrooms, medicinal plants, or edible fruits, nuts and herbs while conserving the forest ecosystem. Forest farming is practiced worldwide, contributing to sustainable livelihoods.
Windbreaks
Windbreaks or shelterbelts are single or multiple rows of trees and/or shrubs purposely planted to deflect major winds. This practice protects crops from prevailing winds, which can cause economic damage by reducing crop growth. Livestock producers can greatly benefit from well-planned windbreaks as well, and strategically planted trees can even keep roads accessible by preventing build up of drifting snow.
Riparian Buffers
Riparian buffers are forested areas bordering water bodies. These buffer strips contain perennial trees and shrubs and provide conservation and water quality benefits, as well as erosion and flood control. Riparian buffers can be designed using non-timber product native species with agronomic and economic value.