Emma Cook, Furman University Biology student, measures the forest understory as part of the research on how understory grazing can improve agroforestry systems.

Wedoany.com Report-Feb 25, Across the South, urban growth and development have reduced available farmland. Researchers and farmers are now examining silvopasture, a method that combines livestock grazing with forested areas to boost economic outcomes and ecological health of these lands.

Dr. John Quinn, alongside pork farmers and researchers at Furman University, secured a Southern SARE Research and Education grant to restore second-growth forests in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. Their approach replaces invasive plants with fast-growing forage crops suited for grazing. The study revealed that sustainable grazing on restored forest land can cut production costs for farmers, enhance soil conditions, and shorten the time needed for pasture recovery.

This collaboration supports the environmental and economic stability of Southern agriculture by promoting research-driven silvopasture practices. These methods convert second-growth forests, which often have limited ecological worth, into productive grazing zones that also improve environmental conditions.

A review of SARE projects funded from 2016 to 2019 showed that addressing farmers’ practical needs within intricate ecosystems was vital to achieving successful outcomes.

“It’s a forest, it’s pasture, maybe there’s a five-acre row crop or vegetable,” says Quinn. “It’s a complex system. This grant really helped me understand that system, ask questions and understand the challenges farmers were facing.”

The initiative demonstrates how integrating livestock with forested areas can create a balanced approach to land use. By focusing on sustainable practices, the project helps farmers adapt to changing landscapes while maintaining productivity. The findings suggest that silvopasture could offer a viable solution for regions facing similar pressures from urbanization.

Through this effort, the team has provided evidence that carefully managed grazing systems benefit both the land and those who depend on it. The work continues to refine how Southern farmers can utilize forested areas effectively, ensuring long-term agricultural resilience.