Agroforestry for Soil Health

Abstract

This chapter highlights the benefits of agroforestry (AF) practices on soil health (SH) parameters including soil carbon (SC), physical properties, biological properties, chemical properties, degradation of harmful chemicals, soil biodiversity, and ecosystem services. Declining soil C and biodiversity leads to soil degradation, and this can lead to food insecurity and declining ecosystem sustainability. A wide array of conservation practices within AF can be integrated into agricultural management practices to conserve and enhance the quality of soil, water, and the environment and help sustain food and fiber production. Strategic placement of AF on agroecosystem landscapes can contribute to additional environmental, land production, and landowner economic benefits due to improved SH. Landowners and farmers who adopt AF practices will provide multiple services and benefits to our society at local, regional, continental, and ecoregional global scales.