Switzerland

AGROFORESTRY in SWITZERLAND

In Switzerland, there are many traditional forms of agroforestry, such as traditional orchards, forest pastures and chestnut selvas. In total, almost 8% of the agricultural land use is still used for agroforestry. These traditional systems are silvopastoral systems. About 15 years ago farmers started to combine high-stem fruit trees with arable crops as a measure against erosion. In the last years, silvoarable systems with fruit and wild fruit trees for fruit and wood production were further developed in the arable farming area of Switzerland.

AGROFORESTRY ASSOCIATIONS in SWITZERLAND

In 2011 the IG Agroforst was founded in the German-speaking Part of Switzerland and in 2017 the Plateforme Agroforesterie Romande was founded in French-speaking Part of Switzerland. Today the two platforms have about 130 members from practice, consultancy and research. Various activities take place such as field tours, courses on agroforestry, annual conferences and regular newsletters.

AGROFORESTRY POLICIES in SWITZERLAND 

The political framework conditions for the implementation of agroforestry are given with certain limitations. Agroforestry projects on practical farms can now be implemented within the framework of biodiversity promotion and landscape quality. Energy wood systems do not receive any contributions in Switzerland, as the demand for energy wood is covered by the forest. Valuable tree species such as oaks and lime trees don`t get any subsidies. 

In addition to direct federal payments, initiatives from Cantons, private enterprises and from foundations now promote the establishment of agroforestry systems as part of its voluntary climate protection measures. Usually, they pay part of the planting material and the advice to farmers. 

There is a lively debate about the future role of traditional and modern agroforestry systems in the future agricultural policy. The Ministeries (Federal Offices for Environment and for Agriculture) have initiated a dialogue with stakeholders to find an appropriate approach that fits into the current and future policy framework. Members of parliament are also involved.  

In addition, under the direction of AGRIDEA and Bio Suisse as well as 3 cantons, a new co-creation project “Agro4esterie”  is underway in western Switzerland (Projet ressource Agro4esterie – Agroforesterie). Up to 140 farmers can realize a personalised agroforestry project and get financial and expert support. This then goes along with scientific monitoring and evaluation activities coordinated by Agroscope. 

RELEVANT SWISS AGROFORESTRY WEBSITES  

TAKE A LOOK AT AGROFORESTRY in SWITZERLAND

 

Walnut Trees for wood and nut production in combination with arable subcultures in central Switzerland 

 

Grazing Mini-Ponys in a vineyard near Zurich 

 

High-stem apple trees for juice production on arable land in the central part of Switzerland