If you're looking for inspiration, here are some project ideas that fit within a shorter timeline — many of which will benefit from access to already-established trees:
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Assessing the impact of tree shelterbelts in alley cropping on crop yields and health, plant stress and soil moisture, vs areas without shelterbelts. Or how crop health and growth differ at different distances from tree rows.
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Assessing the impact of livestock browsing of tree species on livestock health, e.g. nutritional deficiencies, internal parasites, toxicity, other health indicators.
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Assessing the impact of tree shelterbelts on grass growth, condition and resilience to drought and frost compared with open pasture.
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Investigating whether the nutrients from tree leaves provide a sustainable source of nitrogen-rich fertiliser for crops. Assessing their impact on crop yield and soil biology, and the practicalities of this system.
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Comparing the resilience of silvoarable or silvohorticulture systems to climate extremes when compared with non-agroforestry arable and horticultural production.
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Assessing cover crop performance between tree rows – trial different cover crop mixes, monitor biomass, rooting and ease of establishment under partial shade.
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The effect of tree rows and other planting systems on livestock welfare, e.g. use of shade, behaviour, weight gain, body condition.
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Investigating which species in flowering strips establish best under tree shelterbelts, and their impact on biodiversity – e.g. pest predators, pollinators, invertebrates and other wildlife.
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Comparing pollinator activity in/around new hedgerows, versus mature hedgerows or those under different management.
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Monitoring browsing patterns of different fodder trees if planted in blocks. Assessing regrowth rates and animal preferences.
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Assessing the resilience of agroforestry systems to climate change and climate extremes.
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Comparing animal welfare, health and performance across established silvopasture sites, including how this varies across different planting patterns and farms.
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Comparing the survival and growth rates of young trees with different mulches, tree guards and soil preparation techniques.
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Testing the impact of homemade biochar on livestock methane emissions and milk yield.
