What is Agroforestry?
Agroforestry is a land-use management system in which trees or shrubs are grown around or among crops or pastureland. It combines elements of agriculture and forestry, creating more diverse, productive, profitable, healthy, and sustainable land-use systems.
Why is Agroforestry important?
Agroforestry is important for its multiple benefits, including enhanced carbon sequestration in trees and soil, improved biodiversity, soil erosion control, water quality improvement, and diversified farm income. It supports sustainable agriculture and climate resilience, helping farmers adapt to and mitigate climate change.
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Frequently asked questions
Examples include silvopasture (trees and pasture), alley cropping (trees planted in rows with crops in alleys), windbreaks (rows of trees protecting crops/livestock), and riparian forest buffers (trees along waterways).
Trees in agroforestry systems sequester carbon in their biomass, while improved soil health and reduced tillage often lead to increased soil carbon sequestration.
Agroforestry can provide diversified income sources (e.g., fruit, nuts, timber), reduced input costs, improved soil fertility, enhanced water retention, and protection against wind and erosion.