Integration of agroforestry systems within irrigated dairy farms in Waimakariri, Canterbury

The opportunity of integrating agroforestry within irrigated dairy farms in Waimakariri, Canterbury, was investigated via farmer surveys, a literature review and two desktop case studies including economic assessments.

Agroforestry has the potential to alter the understory microclimate, providing a buffering effect for extreme weather conditions.

Some tree species can alter soil chemistry such as poplars increasing pH by up to 1.2. Species such a mulberry are used around the world to as animal fodder due to forage attributes such as high crude protein (18.9% DM) and high digestibility (>85.2%).