Silvopasture

Silvopasture is the deliberate integration of trees and grazing livestock operations on the same land. These systems are intensively managed for both forest products and forage, providing both short- and long-term income sources.

Well-managed silvopastures employ agronomic principals, typically including introduced or native pasture grasses, fertilization and nitrogen-fixing legumes, and rotational grazing systems that employ short grazing periods that maximize vegetative plant growth and harvest. The annual grazing income helps cash flow the tree operation while the tree crop matures and creates easy access if and when the trees or tree products are harvested. While these systems can require a number of management activities, the benefits can make it worthwhile.

Silvopasture diagram showing management inputs on the left and results on the right. — From "Forest Grazing, Silvopasture, and Turning Livestock into the Woods, Agroforestry Note #46, Silvopasture #9".

Silvopasture systems are created by introducing forage into a woodland or tree plantation or by introducing trees into a pasture. Rotational grazing is a key management activity when using silvopasture in order to minimize damage to trees. Special considerations and planning must also be taken into account for long-term tree regeneration.

Chickens in the shade of a row of trees in a corn field. — Even chickens can enjoy the benefits of silvopasture systems.
(Photo courtesy of Main Street Project).

Cattle grazing among scattered young pine trees. — Silvopasture can help reduce heat-stress, which improves animal performance and well-being.
(USDA National Agroforestry Center Photo)

Potential livestock choices include: cattle, sheep, goats, horses, turkeys, chickens, ostriches, emu, rhea, or game animals such as bison, deer, elk, caribou, etc. Trees can supply valuable fodder or mast such as acorns and honey locust pods for livestock. One of the main advantages of silvopasture systems is reducing heat stress in livestock, which improves animal performance and well-being. It is important to note that not every pasture in a livestock enterprise needs to be a silvopasture to take advantage of the benefits of this integrated system.

Silvopastures can increase wildlife diversity (e.g., quail, turkey) and improve water quality. The forage protects the soil from water and wind erosion, while adding organic matter to improve soil properties. Silvopastures provide an attractive landscape with an aesthetically pleasing “park-like” setting.

Silvopasture

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