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.



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