With the start of the new CAP funding period, for the first time, agroforestry systems in Germany were defined in terms of funding legislation. A good but overdue step, and yet there are still many hurdles and challenges, especially regarding the administrative side. For instance, the eco-scheme on agroforestry has so far only been used 67 times, and that nationwide!
The IfLS works on the topic of agroforestry within the scope of various projects, whereby we also cooperate with the German Association for Agroforestry (DeFAF), among others. The association's fifth general meeting took place in Gießen on 24 June 2023. In addition to the work and positive developments of the association, discussions also addressed the role of agricultural policy. The informal exchange included e.g. the further development of the eco-scheme and the development of investment support for the establishment of agroforestry systems.
On Sunday, there was also the opportunity to visit the agroforestry systems on the Gladbacherhof. The successional agroforestry system with poplars, apples and valuable wood species was in the focus of discussions - from planning and planting to the necessary work procedures to the challenges and further experiences.
The IfLS also used the exchange to plan the 9th Forum Agroforestry Systems, which will take place on 27-28 September 2023 in Freiburg and for which the MIXED project offers funding for participation by interested farmers (more information here).
Contact at the IfLS: Holger Pabst (pabst[at]ifls.de), Simone Sterly (sterly[at]ifls.de)
