Farms Branching Out: Agroforestry Exchange

Michigan State University Extension hosted a Peer-to-Peer Agroforestry Exchange at the MSU Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center in Chatham, MI on February 9th.

A group of people walking on a muddy road towards a snow-covered field.

Michigan State University Extension hosted a Peer-to-Peer Agroforestry Exchange at the MSU Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center in Chatham, MI on February 9th. Led by Anna Ellis, Forestry and Natural Resources Extension Educator, and Emily Huff, Associate Professor at MSU, the event was attended by a mix of farmers, foresters, and agricultural professionals. This free event instructed participants on Agroforestry techniques, encouraged discussion, and shared resources for management plan development and cost-share opportunities. Additionally, Alger County Conservation District Forester, Sara Kelso, presented on the free tree and forest-related services that are available to landowners. 

 

Those in attendance took part in a lively discussion about different approaches for land management and possible solutions for the many barriers that farmers and landowners face. Feedback from participants about the most interesting Agroforestry topics will be used to structure future agroforestry events in the area. 

 

Olivia Kingery, farmer and owner of Pileated Farms in Chatham, MI had the following to say after attending the event: “Agroforestry is the future not just of agriculture, but of living in coexistence with our surrounding environment. It’s important for all generations to slow down to learn more about the practices we need to implement to save the earth.” 

 

This Exchange was the first for the Michigan team of researchers and Extension professionals who have recently been funded by the USDA and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to help support the implementation of agroforestry practices by small and medium-sized farms. With partners in both Ohio and Wisconsin, the team expects to have more events just like this one across the region. If you are interested in participating in future events, or to host an Agroforestry Exchange on your farm, contact Project Manager, Amanda Curton, at curtonam@msu.edu.



Did you find this article useful?

You Might Also Be Interested In

Tag List
Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).