Walnut agroforestry (1996)

Abstract

Agroforestry, or growing trees and other crops together on the same land, has been practiced for years in other countries to achieve more sustainable and productive use of limited land resources. In the U.S., forestry and agriculture historically have been considered mutually exclusive land use alternatives. But with clear management objectives, careful planning and skillful intensive management, combining crops and trees can provide advantages that outweigh any perceived disadvantages. Agroforestry is a potential alternative to conventional mechanical methods for soil erosion control. It also allows for gradual removal of highly erodible cropland from row-crop production.