(Maremmana breed grazing in firebreaks in winter)
Jacopo Goracci Agroforestry stories
Jacopo is one of those people who are hard to forget. His stories reveal truly rich experiences on the ground, but also a truly well-thought-out, unique vision of how all life on Earth could better coexist and thrive together.
Agroforestry for him is more than just farming. It is rather grounded in respect for the land we are stewarding while receiving delicious food in return. It is about partnership and equitable exchange.
Jacopo manages the Tenuta di Paganico, a 1500-hectare organic farm nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. There, he harmonises livestock, forestry, and crop production, raising heritage breeds of cattle, pigs, horses, and chickens through organic methods. He embraces agroforestry practices like silvopastoralism and rotational grazing.
Apart from being very busy on the farm, Jacopo manages to find time to be actively involved in European networks such as EURAF and Agroecology Europe. He also participates in European policymaking as EURAF’s delegate in the Civil Dialogue Group meetings on ‘animal production’.
Discover the world of agroforestry through the eyes of Jacopo. This blog explores his journey of integrating trees, livestock, and crops to create a sustainable and biodiverse haven. Join us as we delve into the challenges and triumphs of his unique approach.
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Why agroforestry?
Agroforestry entered my life naturally, growing alongside my journey managing a mixed organic farm in Italy. Working at Tenuta di Paganico, I saw firsthand how integrating trees, livestock, and crops created a balanced ecosystem, supporting biodiversity, animal welfare, and soil health. To me, agroforestry is more than a farming method: it’s a way to respect the land, enhance resilience, and foster sustainable food production. The main benefits? Healthier ecosystems, improved animal and human welfare, and a meaningful connection between nature and agriculture.
More about your farm and work
The story of Tenuta di Paganico is one of deep roots and a passion for sustainable, holistic agriculture. Founded in 1924, Tenuta di Paganico has been active for nearly a century. Its creation was driven by a forward-thinking vision, aiming to prove that forestry, agriculture, livestock, and human activities could coexist harmoniously. Each activity supports the others, creating a system of mutual benefit where the integration of these elements yields synergistic advantages. This approach was revolutionary at the time and continues to inspire sustainable land management today.
My story began in 2005, when I stepped into managing this 1500-hectare organic farm with the vision of harmonizing livestock, forestry, and crop production, raising heritage breeds of cattle, pigs, horses, and chickens through organic methods, embracing practices like silvopastoralism and rotational grazing. Now, Tenuta di Paganico serves as a model of sustainable farming and biodiversity, a place where both people and nature can flourish together.
(Water pond for wood pasture of Maremmana cattle breed)
How would you define the type of agroforestry you are practicing?
We apply agroforestry in every aspect of our farm. Our silvopastoral model allows Maremmana cattle to rotate seasonally through wooded areas and pastures until they reach slaughtering age, avoiding the need for a barn: a unique, pioneering management practice. Even our breeding stock follows this system, though it’s more common locally. Additionally, we maintain windbreak hedges around fields and are now planning to redesign our 3 hectares of vineyard in an agroforestry style, moving away from the monoculture typical of vineyards worldwide. Stay tuned for this exciting new challenge!
What are the most significant challenges you encounter?
The main challenges can be summarized as follows:
a) Labor shortages: There’s a lack of available labor, especially for extensive, wood-based livestock systems like ours. This work requires specific training and is more suited to an independent, project-based approach than traditional employment.
b) Mechanisation issues: Agroforestry systems, from managing silvoarable areas (pruning, thinning) to scattered trees (work times) and forest livestock (feed supplementation, fencing), face mechanisation challenges.
c) Market recognition: Products from agroforestry methods are often indistinguishable from those produced conventionally, leading to unrecognised added costs.
d) Economic valuation of ecosystem services: Agroforestry generates significant ecosystem services that remain undervalued economically.
(Bocage in silvoarable cropland at Tenuta di Paganico)
What benefits of agroforestry practices do you feel the most?
The animals raised outdoors in silvopastoral systems become living symbols of the landscape, embodying a balance between agriculture and nature. They provide essential ecosystem services: grazing animals help control vegetation naturally, enhancing soil fertility with their presence. Their seasonal rotation through different areas fosters biodiversity, creating habitats for smaller species and supporting a healthy ecosystem. This visible harmony benefits the entire community, connecting people to the land and demonstrating a sustainable approach to farming that respects both the animals and the environment. The combined use of heritage breeds attracts tourists and curious visitors, drawn by their distinctive appearance and the unique breeding system.
The same principle applies to agricultural management: agroforestry in silvoarable systems enhances the landscape, making it both beautiful and productive. It creates a habitat rich in wildlife and pollinators, fostering biodiversity and generating sustainable yields.
Focusing on animal welfare
Our farm has invested in ethical consistency throughout the supply chain, including humane slaughter practices. With EU LEADER funding, we developed a prototype trailer for on-farm pig slaughter, transporting animals post-mortem to the abattoir. This innovation spares outdoor-raised pigs from the stress of transport and handling in unfamiliar facilities. Supported by the University of Pisa, we proved improved welfare standards without compromising meat quality or safety. Today, Tenuta di Paganico is among the few farms with year-round on-farm slaughter permits, a milestone we’re truly proud of.
(Silvopastoral beef fattening system)
What would be your advice for new agroforesters?
For new agroforesters, my advice is:
a) Embrace diversity: Study how to integrate various crops, trees, and livestock. Each element enhances the resilience of the ecosystem, improving productivity and sustainability.
b) Learn from the land: Observe and understand the specific needs and characteristics of your land. Every piece of land has unique resources and limitations—adapt your practices to what works best for your environment.
c) Start small and scale up: Begin with manageable projects to gain experience, then expand as you refine your skills and knowledge.
d) Build a community: Connect with others in agroforestry for shared insights, support, and inspiration. Break down that “ivory tower” that too often confines farmers and advisors, tied to their limited knowledge and routine operations.
Learn more about Jacopo’s work and Tenuta di Paganico farm!
Also, find in projects: Agromix, PS Go Newton.
