In 1986 the Pine Country RC&D Area was estimated to have over 127,000 acres of trees in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).  In 1996, the 10-15 year old contracts began to expire leaving 74,250 acres in active contracts.  One of the biggest impacts of the expiring CRP contracts is the reduction in farm income. 

 At the time CRP payments ended, the trees were not marketable.  Therefore, farm income was reduced significantly.  Conversion to Silvopasture can provide continuous, short-term income from cattle production while maintaining some trees to harvest at maturity. Silvopasture systems are increasing in importance in the southeaster U.S. as landowners seek to increase their environmental stewardship, farm sustainability, and income.

The Pine Country RC&D Council is working with three landowners within the area by providing technical and financial assistance to establish silvopasture systems.  The purpose of this project is to promote sustainability by educating agricultural producers on the benefits of Silvopasture Management Systems.

1. Diversified timberland income by added livestock, hay, grazing/hunting proceeds
2. Reduced need for chemical or mechanical vegetation control underneath the trees
3. Reduced fire hazard in the absence of brush and accumulated fuels
4. Reduced need for nitrogen fertilization in grass/legume silvopastures
5. Recycled nutrients from animal wastes benefit forage and tree growth
6. Eliminated need for separate tree fertilization, if forage is fertilized
7. Delayed forage maturity in the fall and earlier green-up in the spring
8. Increased livestock protection from summer heat and winter chill
9. Improved cover and forage for wildlife
10. Increased opportunities for recreation, - e.g., hunting, wildlife watching