In our last discussion with Judith Liposa, the project manager at Hope Ministries International (HOMI). She was explaining about a reforestation project HOMI has in Malawi and the environmental impact it will have. In our first post, we went over five reasons why trees are important and the role they play in the ecosystem, and then in the second post we discussed the overall impact forests have on the environment at large. But what about the farmers? What kind of an impact will this kind of project have on them and their livelihood? I want to know more about how the project helps agriculture in the area.
“As I said before”, Judith begins, “it all starts with the soil. If we do not have healthy soil farming will not be prosperous. Poor quality soil will lead to low yield and unstable agriculture. Environmental changes, such as weather patterns and especially all types of extreme weather, are felt more painfully by farmers where the soil is poor. And since forests, and trees in general help to keep the soil healthy and well nurtured, forests and trees in general are of great benefit to farmers. Additionally, in a well-managed agroforestry soil formation is strong since the forest is continuously renewing itself, it generates much organic material to build new soil”.
“There are so many ways, farmers can benefit from agroforestry. If we look at but a few. Let’s start with the planting of a row or two of trees or shrubs on the edges of your fields. These are called Windbreaks and create a shelter from wind for the soil, crops, animals, and humans alike. Second, Riparian Forest Buffers, on the side of streams, rivers, and lakes, protect the water body by acting as a filter for farm runoff and preventing erosion. These buffer areas also support wildlife, produce crops, improve the quality of the water, and mitigate floods. Then we have Ally Cropping and Forest Farming, where, in the prior case, the farmer grows crops between trees in what is called Alleyways. The trees create protective barriers for the crops, and improve both water and soil quality as well as nutrient utilization. In the latter case, the crops are grown under the forest canopy, and the canopy is adjusted to let in the sunlight needed for the crops, but not too much. Finally, Silvopasture combines livestock and forest. The forest will give shade and protection to the livestock while foraging.”
“In addition to the direct environmental impact reforestation efforts have on the soil, the water, and overall health of the environment, benefiting agriculture adjunct to these areas, the reforestation has other direct benefits to the farming community and the community at large. A healthy forest in a well-managed agroforestry system offers income diversification by providing timber, fruits, nuts, fodder for animals, medical plants, and other non-timber products. It also enhances opportunities for agritourism and ecotourism.”
So, what about the practice of, when preparing land for agricultural use, clearing all trees and bushes? Judith’s answer is a quick unhesitant; “That’s a mistake!”
“You see, in addition to all the aforementioned benefits, the trees are a direct aid to the farmer and his project. While protecting the soil by keeping it moist and fighting against erosion, trees mitigate floods as well as draught, and trees provide a habitat for beneficial insects, pollinators, and birds, thus enhancing natural pest control and promoting biodiversity within farming landscapes. This reduces farmers’ reliance on chemical pesticides and fosters ecological balance. One of this project’s aims is to promote the integration of trees within agricultural landscapes, recognizing the vital role of trees in the world’s ecosystem”.
In our next posts, we will be talking to Judith about the main challenges she is facing with the ENFRIM project, and what she is doing to overcome these challenges.
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