Entry: Leigh Winowiecki, University of Idaho
Diverse cacao agroforestry systems have a place on the cacao landscape. Nutrient cycling, biodiversity and ecosystem services are enhanced when shade trees are incorporated within the cacao matrix. The Second International Symposium on Multistrata Agroforestry Systems with Perennial Crops: Making ecosystem services count for farmers, consumers and the environment, in Turrialba, Costa Rica, brought together experts from around the world to discuss important social, environmental, and economic issues surrounding agroforestry systems. Research was presented on the biophysical and economic aspects of including shade trees on the farm. In addition, presenters emphasized the need to incorporate biodiversity and production data within the same agroforestry project. Researchers also agreed on the need to work more closely with farmers to develop successful agroforestry techniques and to improve adoption success. Working with farmers increases the relevance of the research by addressing the needs of the community. Including farmers in the research was discussed especially on the following topics: certification costs, access to markets, improved production, land tenure and the design of agroforestry systems. Overall, the symposium was a success as researchers collaborated to identify directions for future international agroforestry research.
Photo: Leigh discussing soil color with a local Cabécar farmer as part of a local soil knowledge study.