Can local agroforestry systems survive for rural development and sustainable ecosystems in dryland areas? A case study in Timorese Mamar systems

Abstract

Mamar is a traditional agroforestry system established many years ago on Timor Island. It can maintain water reservoirs, natural habitat, and ecology conservation to support the livelihoods of local people. Although, Mamar is a symbol of heritage, "people will not leave it, but also do not want to see it"an unmanaged system. This study aims to understand the challenges and potential developments of the Mamar. A study on ecosystem services and the potential sustainability of Mamar was conducted in Ponain village using four sampling locations. Data was collected from observation, focus group discussion, laboratory analysis, and secondary data. The results showed that the change of land use from agroforestry to monoculture had reduced the quality of topsoil, water, and the biodiversity of local plants. Mamar could provide good services for the ecosystem, but we are unsure if it can be sustained because the youth tend to leave the Mamar. However, it seems likely this heritage can survive with strong partnership from Pentahelix collaboration (government, education, business, community, and media), applying multifunctional ecosystem (Agro ecotourism and community-based tourism), and eventually creating a business model. This collaboration will help to improve ecosystem and economic services, as well as rural development.