Agroforestry systems
Project Aims
- Development and demonstration of agroforestry systems based on sheep production (silvopastoral) and arable crops (silvoarable) with the aim of increasing business competitiveness through integration of woodland enterprises into existing sheep or arable crop systems in Northern Ireland.
Objectives/targets
- Establishment of a number of agroforestry demonstration sites on sheep and arable farms which can be utilised for physical and financial evaluation and demonstration purposes.
Justification
- Most of the timber used in the United Kingdom (approximately 80%) is imported. There is an opportunity for import substitution through growing quality timber in Northern Ireland, which is climatically ideal for timber production.
- The continuing downward pressure on sheep and arable crop enterprise margins indicates the need for alternative crops to boost farm returns. The integration of forestry and sheep, or arable crop, farming systems through agroforestry provides an appropriate method of introducing high quality woodland production onto Northern Ireland farms.
Technology transferred/system being developed
- DARDNI Science Service has carried out extensive research into agroforestry systems, and forms part of the United Kingdom Agroforestry Forum which links research sites located throughout the United Kingdom. Information on the species choice, grazing methods, weed control and establishment of agroforestry systems is now well researched and available for further development on commercial farm businesses.
Methods used
- Establishment of a number of demonstration sites which incorporate best practice as identified by DANI research.
- Evaluation of physical and financial performance of agroforestry systems on commercial farms.
- Demonstration events to promote agroforestry systems.
Potential benefits
- Improved business competitiveness with sheep and arable enterprises through integration with forestry.
- An increase in product diversification on farms and the production of high quality timber suitable for sale in Northern Ireland, leading to import substitution.
- Wildlife and landscape benefits will accrue from the increase in afforested areas, particularly deciduous woodland.
