Agroforestry

Agroforestry is using trees on farms. The World Agroforestry Centre (formerly ICRAF) defines agroforestry as a dynamic, ecologically based, natural resources management system that, through the integration of trees on farms and in the agricultural landscape, diversifies and sustains production for increased social, economic and environmental benefits for land users at all levels. Two varieties of agroforestry are distinguished: simultaneous and sequential systems. In a simultaneous system, trees and crops or animals grow together, at the same time on the same piece of land. These are the systems in which trees and crops compete most for light, water and nutrients. Competition is minimized by spacing and other means. Examples of simultaneous systems are hedges, agroforests, and shaded crops such as coffee

In sequential systems, crops and trees take turns in occupying most of the same space. The systems generally start with crops and end with trees. The time sequence keeps competition to a minimum. Shifting cultivation is a well-known example of a sequential system.

Analogue forestry is a methodology that seeks to restore ecosystems, analogous in architectural structure and ecological function to the original forest ecosystems that once existed in the area. It uses a combination of planting, natural regeneration and re-introduction of flora and fauna. It requires high levels of management, is labour intensive and offers a great variety of products (especially non-timber forest products or NFTPs) all year round.

Agroforestry is dealt with more extensively in the chapter on sustainable agriculture (REF)

TBI sources

López Rojas, B.H. & Rincon Henao, H.D. (1999). Sistemas Agroforestales Tradicionales en el Guaviare.

Further reading: