Methodological aspects of on-farm agroforestry experimentation.

Abstract

In Brazil’s Central and West Amazon, agroforestry research started in the seventies with the test of agroforestry systems in experimental stations. Farmers did not adopt these systems. As alternative, the Agroforestry Unit of the National Institute of Research for the Amazon (INPA) started a program of on-farm agroforestry trials, attributing a decisive role to the farmer. Together with the farm’s family a tree planting proposal was developed. Farmers furnished land and labor and were to manage the trees their way. Research offered planting stock, accompaniment and advice. Resulting agroforestry plantings differed substantially. The obtained experience is reviewed to come to suggestions for this type of research. Attention is given to the selection of farms for participation; field staff preparation; trial design, installation and maintenance.