Farmer’s Perceptions of Silvopastoral System Promotion in Quindío, Colombia

background

The adoption of silvopastoral systems (SPS) reduces pressure on forests and improves ecosystem services. Silvopastoral systems (SPS) are pasture systems in which multipurpose trees, diverse livestock feeds, and other techniques are used to improve productivity and ecosystem services in cattle production areas. In Latin America, conventional livestock production often results in rapid land degradation. SPS provides a longterm solution. This article describes results of a study evaluating farmers perceptions of SPS and, the motivations and disincentives for its adoption in Quindio Province of Colombia

research goals & methods

Twenty eight (28) farmers are interviewed in Quindio between June-August 2007. These farmers recieved Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) credits from major international donors to adopt SPS.  Their motivations , attitudes, concerns and perceptions are evaluated to determine social, economic, institutional and implemantion barriers to SPS. Results are presented qualitatively and quantitatively.  

conclusions & takeaways

Results show that farmers percieved SPS to reduce input and maintenance costs, increase amount and quality of fodder, and lead to overall increase in farm productivity. They also report improvements in water quality, soil quality, and biodiversity.  However, the authors find a number of social, economic, institutional and implementation barriers that need to be addressed in order to ensure adoption of SPS. The article concludes with a set of conditions that must be established for SPS to succeed.