Farmer's perception about agroforestry systems for legal reserves in the region of Sao Mateus, Espirito Santo, Brazil

Abstract

The aim of this study is to characterize the perceptions and interests of farmers related to the adoption of agroforestry systems (AFS) for restoration of Fibria Celulose S.A.'s Legal Reserves (LRs), with the production of food and nontimber forest products. Twenty farmers were interviewed in the community of Sao Geraldo (Sao Mateus, Espirito Santo, Brazil), who participated in the social projects led by the company in the community. With this, it was possible to trace the profile of farmers and farms, their knowledge of environmental suitability, and interest in the adoption of AFS. Most farmers did not have information about AFS and the possibility of its use in LR. After being educated on the opportunities established in the Brazilian Forestry Law, 12 of the interviewed farmers expressed interest in adopting AFS to restore LR, considering the potential benefits to the diversification of income, water, soil, and biodiversity conservation. Finally, it was also possible to identify species of interest by farmers for AFS composition in LRs.