Silvopastoral systems: an option for the sustainability of high mountain animal husbandry systems

Abstract

Objective: To identify the most used tree and shrub species in high mountain silvopastoral systems in the Nariño department as an option for social, environmental and economic reconversion.

Materials and Methods: Two hundred dairy farms were selected based on a non-probabilistic design of intentional sampling. A semi-structured survey was carried out to collect information about the most relevant tree and shrub forage species. A descriptive analysis of the data was carried out using the program SPSS V22.0.

Results: Acacia melanoxylon R.Br., Alnus acuminata Kunth, Braccharis latifolia (R.&P.) Pers. and Smallanthus pyramidalis (Triana) H.Rob. were the most representative species in the region. Various silvopastoral designs with functionality for the area were implemented: fodder banks, double-layer live fence, alley pasture, multi-layer live fence for the protection of water sources, contour strips and perimeter hedges. A total of 1 970 actors involved in the milk production chain were trained in the use of silvopastoral systems. A methodology for disseminating knowledge was implemented (field days, training sessions at universities and educational institutions, technical tours, etc.). Among those trained, 40 % were farmers, 50 % were technical assistants, 9 % were university students, 0,5 % were government officials and 0,5 % were extension workers.

Conclusion: The implementation of different silvopastoral designs contributed to technology transfer and knowledge exchange, which encourages the adoption of these systems in high mountain animal husbandry farms belonging to small and medium farmers in the Nariño department.