Agroforestry practices could double the number of insect pollinators helping farmers produce food, new research has demonstrated.
Agroforestry: growing trees with crops and/or livestock on the same land
Silvopasture: grazing livestock and growing trees on the same land
Two income streams: cattle (short term); timber (long-term)
A possible third: enhanced wildlife habitat
Like many other southern cattle producers, the Kerr Center has large pastures kept clear of trees for hay and forage production.
During hot weather, cattle do not graze well in unshaded areas.
Establishing trees in pastures provides shade for cattle and improves grazing. It also helps to remove excess water, which can be a limiting factor for high quality forage.
Establishment methods
- Plant on contour
- Deep mulch: mow and rake, or unroll a round hay bale
- Planting into mulch minimizes weed competition and keeps water in soil
- Rip a furrow: deep furrow channels runoff to seedling roots & reduces erosion
Learn more about forests in the southern United States: https://www.seesouthernforests.org/
