Publisher's Synopsis
In its early days, agroforestry may have been viewed as the domain of the 'landcare enthusiast'. Today, integrating trees and shrubs into productive farming systems is seen as a core principle of sustainable agriculture. ""Agroforestry for Natural Resource Management"" provides the foundation for an understanding of agroforestry practice in both high and low rainfall zones across Australia. Three major areas are discussed: environmental functions of trees in the landscape (ecosystem mimicry, hydrology, protection of crops, animals and soil, biodiversity, aesthetics); productive functions of trees (timber, firewood, pulp, fodder, integrated multi-products); and the implementation of agroforestry (design, evaluation, establishment, adoption, policy support). The book also includes a DVD that features videos on forest measurement and harvesting, a Farm Forestry Toolbox and many regionally specific agroforestry resources. Written by leading researchers and practitioners from around Australia, ""Agroforestry for Natural Resource Management"" will be an essential resource for students in agroforestry courses, as well as a valuable introduction to the field for professionals in related areas. This book features wide coverage of the topic, from a 'principles' perspective. It is written by leading researchers and practitioners from around Australia, with expertise in agronomy, forestry, natural resource management, community and molecular ecologies, agricultural economics, soil science, hydrology, landscape architecture and rural sociology. It features comprehensive and integrated treatment of the environmental roles and productive potential of agroforestry across southern Australia, and comprehensive and readily useable agroforestry and farm forestry resource base on DVD.
