By Blake Jackson
Researchers at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) have launched a multi-year study examining how silvopasture can improve farm productivity, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience across the Northeast.
The practice combines trees, forage, and livestock, with this project focusing on introducing trees into existing pasture systems.
Led by Cole Gross, Assistant Professor in ESF's Department of Sustainable Resources Management, the initiative involves researchers, students, farmers, and conservation organizations working across six cattle farms in New York.
The team will evaluate tree survival and growth, livestock health, soil conditions, water quality, biodiversity, carbon storage, and establishment costs.
The project recently established its first demonstration planting at Twin Oaks Dairy Farm in Cortland County. Participants planted trees during a collaborative field event, marking the beginning of 18 planned demonstration systems.
More than 2,000 trees are expected to cover approximately 36 acres of pastureland during the initial phase. Five additional farms also received plantings during the fall.
"It was exciting to dig into the soil and help plant the first trees. We're testing three planting designs on working farms to make establishing silvopasture systems more practical, beneficial, and scalable. We're tracking a range of outcomes, including tree survival and growth, changes in soil health over time, and impacts on livestock health, water quality, biodiversity, carbon storage, and planting costs," said Gross, the project's principal investigator.
"One of the biggest barriers for farmers is the upfront investment, along with uncertainty about how to establish and maintain productive systems. Our goal is to provide the information, and real-world experience farmers need to determine whether silvopasture is a good fit for their operation. By working alongside dedicated farmers on their own land and partnering with extension specialists and conservation organizations, we're building practical knowledge that can support wider adoption across the region,” Gross added.
Silvopasture may provide livestock shade, improve soil health and water retention, support wildlife, capture carbon, and create additional farm income. However, researchers say more evidence is needed to understand its performance under Northeastern conditions and determine how producers can implement it effectively.
The project will produce an open-access technical guide covering site selection, management considerations, and implementation strategies. Researchers will also share findings through demonstration sites, field days, workshops, and educational outreach.
“This project demonstrates how SUNY ESF research translates directly into solutions that benefit communities, industries, and the environment," said Joanie Mahoney, President of ESF.
“We are grateful to the many partners who have joined us in this effort to advance knowledge that can strengthen agricultural resilience, support rural economies, and promote sustainable stewardship of working lands,” Mahoney added.
Partners include Cornell Cooperative Extension, the New York Soil Health Program, American Farmland Trust, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Upper Susquehanna Coalition. The initiative also provides hands-on research experience for ESF students.
The findings are expected to help farmers, land managers, and policymakers assess silvopasture's potential to strengthen agricultural sustainability and climate resilience throughout the Northeast.
Photo Credit: suny-college-of-environmental-science-and-forestry
Categories: New York, Education