Last week we looked at agroecology – sustainable farming that works with nature. Agroforestry is a great example of agroecology. It is the practice of combining trees and farming. It demonstrates how food production and nature can co-exist. For example, grazing farm animals under trees gives them shelter and fodder, whilst their manure enriches the soil. Another example is planting trees on land normally used to grow cereal crops. It can provide another crop, such as, fruit, nuts, or timber. This provides another income stream for farmers, and protects soils from erosion, as the trees’ deep roots help create a healthy soil structure. Next week we move on to examine how we can garden without pesticides.
Our actions make a difference
Jackie Orbell
Barrow Benefice ECO Church
RISBY ECO CHURCH ENVIRONMENT OFFICER
