Scion researchers, alongside partners, are leading a groundbreaking three-year research initiative, Taking risk out of next-generation silvopastoral systems to showcase agroforestry's environmental, economic, social, and cultural benefits.

The programme began in August 2024 and focuses on silvopastoral systems—where livestock graze within tree-planted landscapes.

Agroforestry, the strategic integration of agriculture and forestry, is emerging as a critical approach to addressing environmental and economic pressures.

Silvopastoral systems, in particular, combine tree planting with livestock grazing to enhance productivity while bolstering resilience against climate change.

Despite its potential, little research has been conducted in New Zealand on silvopastoral systems in the past three decades, leaving a significant knowledge gap.

This project aimed to bridge that gap and provide practical solutions for farmers.

The research team is holding co-design workshops with landowners and partners to identify trial sites.

These sites will either incorporate new tree plantings into established farms or modify existing tree stands.

Trials will span sheep, beef, and dairy farms, with animal and plant monitoring central to the programme.

Collaborative engagement with landowners has been a priority since the project’s inception and remains integral to its execution, said programme lead Peter Clinton.

“Co-design ensures research outcomes align with the aspirations of landowners and that objectives are met,” Clinton said.

He highlighted that trees on farms can improve animal welfare by providing natural shelter, reducing erosion, increasing biodiversity, and sequestering carbon.

Clinton envisioned the trials continuing beyond the programme’s initial three years to yield long-term benefits.

Simon Van Haandel, forestry business manager at Pāmu, one of the research partners, believed deciduous silvopastoral systems could become a viable option for vulnerable land types across New Zealand.

“Climate modelling predicts more extreme weather, reducing productivity and increasing risks to livestock and land,” Van Haandel said.

“Trees mitigate erosion, regulate water flows, and provide shade and shelter, enhancing farm resilience.”

While historical trials under radiata pine proved economically challenging, the value of silvopastoral systems—such as improved animal welfare and farm sustainability—is becoming more apparent.

“Through this project, we aim to define conditions where silvopastoral systems succeed, giving farmers more tools to adapt,” Van Haandel added.

Dane Tamepo, business manager at Orete No.2 and Other Blocks Incorporated, emphasized the programme’s alignment with Māori values.

“This research supports long-term land-use sustainability while addressing priorities like climate, animal welfare, and water quality.

Sharing findings with our whānau, hapū, and iwi is vital,” Tamepo said.

The project also incorporated a One Welfare perspective, linking animal welfare with human well-being and environmental health.

AgResearch senior scientist Karin Schutz underscored the benefits for animals and farmers alike.

“Animals in silvopastoral systems thrive in comfortable microclimates, improving welfare and productivity, which benefits farmers financially,” Schutz said.

The programme’s goals range from developing infrastructure and farming practices to quantifying benefits and boosting confidence in silvopastoral systems’ intergenerational sustainability.

Ultimately, it aimed to provide New Zealand’s farming community with tools to adapt to climate change and global pressures.