Ch. 5: Silvopastoral systems based on natural grassland and ponderosa pine in NW Patagonia (Argentina).

CABALLÉ, G.; FERNÁNDEZ, M. E.; GYENGE, J. E.; LANTSCHNER, M.V.; RUSCH, V.; LETOURNEAU, F.; BORRELI, L.

Silvopastoral systems in Southern South America

Springer International Publishing

Año: 2016; p. 89 - 115

This chapter summarizes the results of research conducted over the past 15 years andprovides management guidelines for the development of silvopastoral systems basedon ponderosa pine plantations established on natural grasslands in NW Patagonia,Argentina. The goals of the studies were to generate knowledge for improvingenvironmental and production efficiency in that region. Ecological interactions amongthe different life forms which make up a silvopastoral system (grasses, trees andanimals) were studied to determine what management system would optimizeenvironmental resource sharing. In addition, aspects affecting environmentalsustainability of the systems were analyzed, such as resource use (mainly water use) bysilvopastoral components and biodiversity patterns. Based on those results, it wasconcluded that applying silvicultural practices leading to a tree canopy cover levelequal to or below 50%, is compatible with proper production of natural grasslandspecies, particularly the palatable Festuca pallescens. Animal rearing should includerotation between different areas in this type of system, where partial shade may limitgrass re‐growth compared to open grasslands. However, microclimatic benefits of thetrees on the animals may be particularly significant, and deserve specific futureresearch. Currently available information indicates that the studied silvopastoralsystems may constitute, under the fragile environmental conditions of semiaridPatagonia, a sustainable activity in productive and environmental terms.