A team of researchers and Extension professionals from Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin have received funding to help small and medium sized farms in the region use agroforestry practices and markets.
Agroforestry is a land use system that combines trees and shrubs with agricultural crops and livestock. It can provide a variety of benefits, including increased crop yields, improved soil health, and reduced erosion.
The project will provide opportunities for farmers to learn about agroforestry, connect with other farmers who are using agroforestry practices, and access resources to help them implement agroforestry on their farms.
The project will also develop agroforestry demonstration farms in each state. These farms will showcase the benefits of agroforestry and provide a place for farmers to learn more about agroforestry practices.
The project is expected to have a significant impact on the region's farming and forestry industries. Farm viability will improve by increasing the diversity of products coming from farms. Increased carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and water quality will enhance environmental outcomes, and provide opportunities for small and medium sized farms to participate in new ecosystem service markets.
The project began summer 2023 and will continue until the end of 2028. Major milestones in the first year include recruitment of farmers to participate in Agroforestry Exchanges, and development of research protocols for demonstration farms.
This project is a great example of how researchers and Extension professionals are working together to help farmers adopt sustainable farming practices. Agroforestry is a promising way to improve the sustainability of farms and the environment, and this project will help to make agroforestry more accessible to farmers in the Midwest.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops