Silvopasture in Minnesota Fact Sheet
Silvopasture is the deliberate integration of trees and grazing livestock operations on the same land. The trees, forage, and grazing livestock are managed intensively and must complement with one another to increase overall production. The sales of livestock provide annual income to the producer while fostering long-term economic benefits from trees such as sawtimber.
In silvopasture, management of trees through thinning and pruning helps provide high-value timber and ensures that sufficient light is available for forage. Grazing animals control competition for moisture, nutrients, and sunlight, enhancing tree growth. Trees provide shade for livestock and create a microclimate that improves forage quality. Livestock promote nutrient cycling, and nitrogen fixing forage crops benefit trees.