Agri-Silviculture in Tropical America

Abstract

"Agri-silviculture is a production scheme that supplies wood, foodstuffs and/or animal products from a single management unit where good agricultural practices are complemented by the judicious use of trees. Such a unit could be a farm, a small community or a portion of a watershed. Despite its numerous benefits, agri-silviculture should not be seen as a substitute for intensive agriculture or forestry on any given terrain. Trees compete for light and water, and unless properly managed, can reduce marketable produce. Agri-silviculture is best viewed as one means to keep certain slopes in permanent production or to rehabilitate lands degraded by poor agriculture practices."