There are many different types of agroforestry system. One that I have come across recently is the use of roundels.
Roundels consist of a clump of 3 layers:
- Inner layer- made up of feature trees. These would ordinarily be Oaks, Beech, Lime, Cherry or Walnut trees. Species are not limited to the list but is generally made up of larger trees.
- Central layer- this layer aims to act as a protection layer to the feature trees. This layer not only protects the inner trees but also provides wildlife habitat. This would ordinarily be made up of Alder, Thorns, Holly, Apple or Pear trees. Once again, the list given is not limiting, other trees may be used if you desire.
- Outer layer- provides a browsable layer for livestock. Browsable plants can be very helpful to livestock systems. For example, they can provide livestock with natural medications which could allow your animals to self-medicate, which may in turn help to reduce your vet bills. This layer would be made up of Willow, Poplar, Mulberry, Elder or Alder trees.
This system provides livestock with shelter, an alternative food source and possible access to self-medicate, depending on what trees are used in the browsable layer. As well as this, there are a number of environmental benefits including flood risk mitigation, reduced risk of soil erosion and increasing biodiversity.
Once established, you will be able to claim an agroforestry payment under the expanded 2024 SFI offer under the AGF1. This would pay £248/ha.
For more information on how your farming system could integrate AgroForestry, contact Morgan at morgangray@fcgagric.com or your local FCG Office.
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