Agroforestry refers to a series of production systems encompassing the intentional, integrated and interactive management of trees (shrubs), crops and/or livestock.  The systems blend agriculture, silviculture and conservation practices on the same land unit. As an agroforestry practice, silvopasture is a production approach designed and managed for the integration of livestock, forages and trees.  Planned-for outputs might range from contributing to forage supply needs for the beef sector while maintaining timber production on the same landbase;  providing upland grazing resources for wildlife; improving riparian protection;  contributing to carbon sequestration and climate change adaptation strategies; or, contributing to wildfire risk mitigation. 

Little research directly addresses silvopasture systems in BC, and most information is adapted from forest grazing and silviculture trials. As a tool complementary or supplementary to existing management practices, silvopasture development is focusing on initiating operational, collaborative applied-research projects and demonstrations, with the combined goal of addressing information gaps and informing pathways which foster adoption. Projects, results to date and tools in development will be discussed.

The Natural Resources and Environmental Studies Institute (NRESi) at UNBC hosts a weekly lecture series at the Prince George campus. Anyone from the university or wider community with interest in the topic area is welcome to attend. Go to http://www.unbc.ca/nres-institute/colloquium-webcasts to view the presentation remotely

Past NRESi colloquium presentations and special lectures can be viewed on our video archive, available here.