Project Narrative

PARTICIPANTS Participating farmers are small, primarily dairy farms. The acreage size area varies, but in most cases the area to be planted is 1-3 acres (0.5-1.5 ha). Most are conventional farms, not organic. Integrating trees will help to manage sustainably the farm activities. BENEFITS Through riparian zone restoration, nutrient runoff can be reduced as trees intercept and take up excess nutrients as well as stabalize stream banks preventing soil and nutrient loss into waterways. We have been working with our local partners to plant buffers of at least 15 meters between agriculture fields and cattle grazing areas to combat nutrient runoff into the lake Champlain Watershed.The project therefore has 3 main goals: Restore Riparian Areas: Plant trees in riparian buffers & windbreaks to reduce flooding and water runoffProvide shade on the waterways, lowering the temperatures, benefiting the trout populationAdd trees who can naturally help to absorb and reduce nitrates and sulphates in the water Integration of tree in farms: Plant several species of trees adapted to the local agricultural systems to increase ecosystem services from trees to farmers: soil enrichment (reducing the needs for fertilizers), micro-climate to face droughts, shade for animals, protection to strong winds and storms…Diversify revenues and enhance local production: sugar maple, apples, nuts, berries… Education and Awareness: Build awareness on sustainable agricultural practices and water protectionTrain farmers on the techniques and benefits of integrating trees in and around farms