Ep. 217 Agroforestry: Blending trees, crops, ecology, and economy | #GoodGrowing

Have you ever wondered if trees and crops can grow together and actually benefit each other? Or maybe you've heard the term "agroforestry" and aren't quite sure what it means. Check out this week's Good Growing Podcast as we dig into the world of agroforestry with MJ Oviatt from the Savanna Institute. From windbreaks and riparian buffers to growing nuts, berries, and more, learn how blending trees with agriculture can boost biodiversity, protect soil and water, and even support your bottom line!

Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/l0oVLH5i9Us

Skip to what you want to know:  

  00:35 - Welcome back, Ken. What's our agroforestry experience?

  02:45 - Welcome, MJ Oviatt

  06:34 - What is agroforestry? Does it work in Illinois? 

  10:29 - Is agroforestry focused on economics? Or ecology?

  14:06 - What benefits does agroforestry provide to a farm or property?

  17:42 - Are there barriers that keep property owners from incorporating agroforestry?

  22:52 - What kind of plants can be used for windbreaks? 

  27:32 - Is there a wrong way to create a windbreak? 

  33:12 - What are riparian buffers? What are the benefits of these? 

  42:47 - Does the Savanna Institute have examples of agroforestry in practice? Do you provide education for landowners? 

  49:31 – Savana Institute's work on hazelnuts

  54:18 - MJ, what species would you want in your own agroforestry project? 

  57:46 - Wrap-up, thank yous, what's up next week, and goodbye!

Savanna Institute: https://www.savannainstitute.org/

Perennial AF Podcast: https://www.savannainstitute.org/perennialaf/

MJ Oviatt: https://www.savannainstitute.org/staff-mj-oviatt/

Contact us! 

Chris Enroth: [email protected]

Ken Johnson: [email protected]

Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing

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Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.

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