Agroforestry, as defined by the World Agroforestry Center, is:
"a collective name for land use systems and practices in which woody perennials are deliberately integrated with crops and/or animals on the same land management unit."
A less 'jargony', yet more vague definition offered by the Peace Corps is:
"[helping] communities with projects to conserve natural resources."
Basically, I will be working to incorporate environmental sustainability in development projects, especially through the use of trees and forest resources, by helping people get the most out of their natural environment while also conserving it for future generations. Right now, I don't know what this means I will be doing exactly, since it will all depend on the needs and resources of the site where I am placed. Some examples of past agroforestry projects include:
- production of sustainable fuels and more efficient cookstoves, such as briquettes
- constructing live fences, i.e. fencing made of bushes and trees
- starting and continuing compost projects
- creating tree nurseries and community gardens
- setting up a beekeeping program
- starting environmental clubs in schools
Peace Corps has made a nice video about agriculture projects all over the world (see below). As for me, you'll just have to keep reading and check back in a couple months!
