A Survey of Small-Scale Farmers Using Trees in Pastures in Herrera Province, Panama
background
The Herrera Province on the Azuero Peninsula of Panamá has experienced significant deforestation for the purpose of cattle ranching.
research goal & methods
The goal of the study was to determine more information about the use of trees in smallholder cow pastures. Herreran pasture owners were interviewed about the different uses for trees in their pastures as well as the variety of tree species.
conclusions & takeaways
The study finds nine different uses for pasture trees, listed from most common use to least common use: living fence, firewood, fruit, animal shade, wood, water shade, posts, fodder, medicinal. The study also found a preference for native species. Additionally, 100% of the participants used natural regeneration to manage trees on pastures, while 49% used manual planting.
Reference:
. A Survey of Small-Scale Farmers Using Trees in Pastures in Herrera Province, Panama. Journal of Sustainable Forestry. 2005;20:37–65. doi:10.1300/j091v20n03_03.
Affiliation:
- Plant Science University of Alberta, Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Sciences, USA
- Native Species Reforestation Project (PRORENA) in Panama, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
- 410 Agriculture/Forestry Centre, Edmenton, Alberta