A team of Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin researchers and Extension professionals has recently been awarded funding from USDA and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to help support use of agroforestry practices and markets by small and medium sized farms in the region.
“This project involves a team of passionate and dedicated researchers and Extension professionals who have worked with farmers and woodland owners in the Upper Midwest for decades. This is a unique opportunity to support synergy between forestry and agriculture professionals and landowners to expand use of agroforestry practices through the region,” said Dr. Emily Huff, the project lead and Associate Professor in the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University.
Much is known about the characteristics, attitudes, and behaviors of U.S. family forest owners and agricultural landowners independently. However, little is known about those who own both woodland and farmland, and what, if any, agroforestry and woodland management practices are used by these Farmer Woodland Owners (FWOs).
The project will provide opportunities for FWOs in each state to gather in farmer learning circles and connect with agriculture and natural resource professionals to identify innovative uses of trees and forests within agricultural systems that can improve farm viability and increase environmental and social benefits.
An initial pilot project conducted in Michigan in 2022 demonstrated the need for better connections between professionals who advise farmers and forest landowners (respectively) and to improve access to agroforestry resources among farmers.
Source: osu.edu
Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartle
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops