Ecosystem Services from Silvopastures

[Brett Chedzoy]

One of the more interesting talks that I've heard over the years on grazing or silvopasturing was by Dr. Gene Garrett at the 2011 Northeast Silvopasture Conference titled: Silvopasture Ecosystem Services.  A copy of the presentation is archived at: https://cpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/blogs.cornell.edu/dist/d/5957/files/2... 

This article on the role that trees play in phosphorous solubilization (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2020.567918/full) reminded me of Dr. Garrett's talk, and also of the many symbiotic benefits of adding trees in to agricultural systems.

[Brett Chedzoy]

Ten "ecosystem services" that come to mind.  Please add to this list for things I've overlooked:

1. Rhizodegredation of some contaminants (see Dr. Garrett's talk above)
2. Nutrient solubilization (2nd referenced article)
3. Nutrient and contaminant biosequestration
4. Carbon sequestration
5. Hydraulic and nutrient lift from lower soil profiles
6. Wildlife habitat
7. Rainfall interception and increased infiltration
8. Soil health building: increased organic matter, microbial diversity, etc.
9. Nitrogen fixation by leguminous and some non-leguminous trees
10. Soil stabilization from tree roots and duff