Silvopasture

Silvopastures are characterized by the deliberate integration of trees, livestock, and forages on the same piece of land. Silvopastures can be established by planting trees into an open pasture, known as silvopasture by addition, or by thinning a forest, opening light to the understory and seeding forages, a process known as silvopasture by subtraction. Silvopastures can provide a variety of services that can benefit farmers’ income, livestock health, and the environment. By growing trees, forages and livestock together, farms can diversify their income to include both forest products (timber, fruits, nuts) and livestock products (meat, dairy). The trees can provide livestock with shade, shelter from precipitation and wind, and produce additional food sources such as leaves, fruits, and nuts. Compared to open pasture, silvopastures provide improved soil health, water quality, and habitat for biodiversity.