Silvopasture

• The silvopastoral system must be well planned in order to lead to the realization of positive benefits. The specific site-context needs to be taken into account, including elements such as: slope of the land, soil characteristics, climatic conditions, and appropriate plant species.
• Species suitability: it is important to use native tree species as they will be more adapted to the local environmental conditions. Furthermore, adequate care must be taken to identify suitable grass and legume species, as not all grasses and legumes tolerate shade and competition well.
• Grazing must be well managed as if it is not controlled, livestock could graze on planted or naturally regenerating trees (younger than 2-3 years).
• Return on investment: it takes about two years to realize the benefits of silvopastoral systems, depending on the region and species combinations being implemented, as well as the scale over which these interventions are practiced.

Material required

The type of material required depends on the situation.

If trees need to be planted:

• Good quality seedlings
• Fences to protect the seedlings from grazers
• Shovel and material to dig (tractor or small dozer if mechanised version)

If trees are already present:

• Rope or something to indicate which trees have been selected for the silvopasture (to prevent them from being accidentally cut)
• Fences and other materials to protect small trees from grazers
• Materials to clean the unwanted vegetation (ex: thorny shrubs, and plants poisonous to cattle).
  

Steps of implementation

1. Deciding on location and method: Silvopasture can be established in an already forested area or over an area where trees and foliage may be lacking but which is suitable for tree growth, as long as there is a soil depth of at least 1.5 metres. Most farmers, however, prefer to use native trees which can be established using natural regeneration (please refer to the ANR intervention) instead of planting trees themselves because of the associated higher tree survival rates and lower costs.

2. Deciding on tree configuration: The usual configuration of trees within a Silvopastoral system consists of trees which are scattered across the pasture area or rows of trees that fit amongst rows of grasses - this is similar to alley cropping, but with grazing livestock instead of crops.

3.Deciding on forest density: The density of the forest area should be between 100 and 600 trees per hectare, depending on the environmental conditions. Trees should not be planted too densely, as they must allow sunlight to reach the grass and stimulate its growth. A good practice is to imitate the configuration of trees in surrounding areas and to choose a wide variety of native tree species. High species diversity will allow for better resistance to pests, and a varied succession of crops which provide multiple services, such as trees for medicinal use, food (in the case of fruit trees), timber, and firewood.  

4. Maintenance and monitoring: During the first years, saplings should be protected from grazers and weeds by installing fences or only allowing livestock in areas where trees are tall enough to survive grazing. Weeding is also very important as weeds can suffocate the trees and compete for nutrients. If necessary, tree growth can be stimulated by watering and adding extra manure.

Different types of livestock can be introduced in a silvopastoral system, from poultry to cattle, but to ensure the success of this technique overgrazing should be avoided. This can be prevented with controlled grazing such as rotational grazing and by always making sure the trees and the grass can resprout. To facilitate the confinement of livestock to a specific area, exclosures can be installed, or live fences (simple or multi-strata) can be created using trees and bushes.

This intervention contributes to:

Estimation of costs & benefits of intervention
In this example, the silvopasture has been created from the conversion of an existing pastureland. The area consists of 4000 acres, with 200-400 trees per acre.

Note: this example is given in acres and not hectares

* Costs of cattle and fencing material excluded

(Source)

1. Silvopasture improves ranches and the environment in Panama

Description
In Panama, traditional cattle ranching dates back to the 1500s but has led to significant deforestation and soil depletion, worsened by climate change. Recently, the agroforestry technique of silvopasture, which integrates trees and shrubs into pastures, has been gaining traction. This method is more profitable and environmentally beneficial, enhancing biodiversity and sequestering carbon. Odielca Solís, a rancher who adopted silvopasture after training with Yale University-affiliated programs, illustrates its benefits. Despite cultural resistance and the additional effort required, Solís's commitment to silvopasture has improved her farm's productivity and environmental impact, promoting resilience and adaptation among local ranchers. Her success, supported by organizations like the Association of Livestock and Agro-Silvopastoral Producers of Pedasí (APASPE) and international funding, highlights the potential for silvopasture to transform traditional ranching in Panama.

2. Silvopasture in Viola Wisconsin Farm, the US

Description
On a farm in Viola, Wisconsin, silvopasture practices are transforming the traditional farming landscape. By integrating trees and shrubs into pastures, this method not only supports livestock but also enhances environmental health. Farmers in Viola have noticed significant benefits, including improved soil quality, increased biodiversity, and better water retention. The shaded areas provided by trees help protect animals from heat stress, leading to healthier and more productive livestock. Additionally, the trees contribute to carbon sequestration, helping to combat climate change. The combination of these ecological and economic advantages is making silvopasture an attractive option for sustainable farming in the region.

External Sources 

• Here you can find other examples of silvopasture interventions around the world and their differences according to location. Such examples are found in Argentina, Uruguay, USA, New Zealand, Paraguay, Brazil and  Chili.
• Here you can find another example involving both cows and trees from Colombia.
• An overview of silvopasture and the importance of it can be found here.

Guides 

• A very good guide on the establishment and management of silvopasture for pine trees can be found here.