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INTERNATIONAL WORKSHOP ON AGROFORESTRY
"Ecological Benefits of Agroforestry"
15th to 17th June 2011 Cottbus, Germany
The International Workshop on Agroforestry will be held on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of
Brandenburg University of Technology in Cottbus, Germany.
Agroforestry began to attain prominence in the late 1970s when the international scientific community
recognized it as a practice in search of science. During the 1990s, the relevance of agroforestry for
solving problems related to increased soil erosion, surface and groundwater pollution, and decreased
biodiversity was recognized. Thus, agroforestry is now receiving increasing attention as a sustainable
land management option because of its ecological, economic, and social attributes.
At Brandenburg University of Technology, more than 15 years of research has been done in
agroforestry which has been carried out on different experimental sites including more then 100 ha of
alley cropping, additional areas with short rotation coppice, and other tree-based field experiments
located close to Cottbus in Germany. The presence of woody species in the alley cropping production
system has been shown to contribute significantly to carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, improved
water availability for crops, stimulation of higher soil faunal activities, soil erosion control, soil fertility
improvement, and sustained levels of crop production. Thus, alley cropping offers a promising land
use alternative for the temperate zone and corresponds with the increasing demand for renewable
energy resources and for a specific adaptation to the predicted changes of climatic conditions within
Central Europe.
Objectives and Topics
The intent of the workshop is to provide an international forum for researchers and young researchers
to share knowledge, experiences, and ideas on sustainable land management practices centered on
the integration of trees into the landscape. To date, the implementation of agroforestry systems
remains poor throughout most of Europe. In light of this, the workshop brings together some of the
most important current research in European agroforestry and evaluates the current scope and future
potential of agroforestry across the EU.
2
TABLE OF CONTENT
AGROFORESTRY IN CENTRAL EUROPE – CASE STUDIES
_________________________________________________________
C. Böhm, A. Quinkenstein, D. Freese, R. F. Hüttl
Research in agroforestry at the Brandenburg University of Technology in Cottbus …. 7
M. Bärwolff and Dr. A. Vetter
Sustainable production of wood biomass for energy in alley cropping systems in
central Germany …………………………………………………………………………………… 8
G. von Wühlisch, K. Pfennig, H. Grünewald, J.-M. Greef, K.-U. Schwarz
Alley-Cropping Trials in Lower Saxony, Early Results …………………………………..… 9
F. Sereke, A.R. Graves, D. Dux, M. Dobricki, J.H.N Palma, F. Herzog
Restoring Swiss Agroforestry: It’s not all about money…………………………………... 10
AGROFORESTRY – CARBON STOCK AND NUTRIENT CYCLE
B. Takoutsing, K. E. Asaah, R. Yuh, L. Kouodiekong, Z. Tchoundjeu
Impact of organic soil amendments on the physical characteristics and yield
components of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in the Highlands of Cameroon …….. 11
D.O. Oke and A.O.Olatiilu
Carbon storage in agroecosystems: a case study of the cocoa based agroforestry in
Ogbese Forest Reserve, Ekiti state, Nigeria ………………………………………………… 12
A. Quinkenstein, C. Böhm, D. Freese, R. F. Hüttl
Agroforestry systems for the production of woody biomass in marginal regions in
Northeast Germany ……………………………………………………………………………… 13
G. von Wühlisch
Poplars in Agroforestry, Suitability due to Its Low Fertilizer Requirements …………. 14
N. Lamersdorf, L. Hartmann, P. Schmidt-Walter
Aspects of nitrogen availability in agro- and short rotation forestry ……………………15
3
TREE (AND CROP) SPECIES SUITABLE FOR AGROFORESTRY
T. Guse, G. von Wühlisch
Variation in Drought Tolerance and Growth Performance of Robinia pseudoacacia L.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………....16
M. Veste, D. Mantovani, S. Lebzien, D. Freese
Yield-transpiration relations of bioenergy crops:
How can we optimize water use in agroforestry systems under climate variability? .. 17
A. R. Atangana, J. Beaulieu, A. Gagné, E. van der Vlis, D. van Houten, H. Hendrickx, D. P. Khasa,
and S. Chang
Improving agroforestry tree species for fruit/seed production: does a small-size first
generation breeding population preserve natural genetic diversity? A lesson from
Allanblackia floribunda (Clusiaceae) …………………………………………………………. 18
P. Schmidt-Walter
Short rotation coppices (SRC) with Poplar and Willow as a component of modern
agroforestry - measuring and modelling groundwater recharge ………………………... 19
F.A. Melato, R.I. McCrindle, T. Regnier and N.S. Mokgalaka-Matlala
Impact of metals on the growth and metabolite production of Vetiver grass ………… 20
D. Landgraf and C. Steinke
The influence of irrigation on the establishment and annual growth of different poplar
clones under the specific site conditions of Brandenburg, Germany ………………….. 21
L. Rusinamhodzi , M. Corbeels , M. van Wijk , J. Nyamangara, and K. E. Giller
Long-term maize-pigeonpea intercropping increases productivity and rainfall
infiltration in a degraded sandy soil in central Mozambique …………………………… 22
AGROFORESTRY AND BIODIVERSITY
M. Lorente, G. Moreno, E. Juárez, L. López, G. Bornay
Biodiversity in different secondary habitats of Mediterranean dehesas ………………. 23
D. Sertse; T. Disasa; K. Bekele; M. Alebachew
Flowering of major farm forest component bamboo in Dawro Zone of Southern
Ethiopia and its consequences on livelihood and environment ………………………… 24
4
AGROFORESTRY AND PHYTOREMEDIATION
S.P. Lepule, S. Combrinck, N.S. Mokgalaka, T. Regnier and I. Weiersbye
Role of Lippia scaberrima Sond. in the phytoremediation of gold mine tailings …….. 25
T. Dimitrova, F. Repmann, D. Freese
Potential of Selected Agricultural Crops to Take up Iron Cyanides from Contaminated
Soils ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26
S.Combrinck, C. Kouekam, T. Regnier, N.S. Mokgalaka and I. Weiersbye
Utilisation of Combretum erythrophyllum as a source of antimicrobial compounds in
phytoremediation ……………………………………………………………………………….... 27
M.F. Mashigo, S. Combrinck, N.S. Mokgalaka and T. Regnier
Chemical variation and phytoremediation potential of Helichrysum splendidum……. 28
AGROFORESTRY AND ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
P. Tsonkova, D. Freese, C. Böhm, A. Quinkenstein, E. Schaller
Benefits provided by silvoarable agroforestry systems in the temperate region: a
review ………………………………………………………………………………………….… 29
T. Sprenger
Short Rotation Forests in conflict: a qualitative approach towards the assessments
and decision making process ………………………………………………………………….. 30
D. Callo-Concha and M. Denich
Assessing social-ecological sustainability of agroforestry systems: functional
biodiversity in Tomé-Acú, northern Brazil …………………………………………………... 31
5
POSTER PRESENTATION
N. Reppin
Agroforestry and nature conservation ……………………………………………………….. 31
G. Uckert, J. Zscheischler
Potentials of Energy Wood for Biodiversity– a most simple approach ………………... 32
M. Grunert, A. Dietzsch
Cultivating fast-growing tree species on contaminated land in Central
Saxony/Germany …………………………………………………………………………………. 33
M. Grunert, K. Ruscher
Cultivation of fast-growing tree species as short rotation coppice strips in
Saxony/Germany …………………………………………………………………………………. 34
M. Hirsch
The Internet Platform energieholz-portal.de – Project AgroForNet …………………….. 35
Y. Chebli, A. Keli
Assessment the impact of using the alley cropping in the east of Morocco …………. 36
S. Keutmann and P. Grundmann
Agro-wood Production in Brandenburg, Germany – An Institutional Analysis……….. 37
C. Morhart, S. Springmann, H. Spiecker, P. E. Rehpenning
Modern Agroforestry systems combining valuable timber production and short
rotation coppice – land use systems with high long- lasting carbon storage capacity
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 38
6
AGROFORESTRY IN CENTRAL EUROPE – CASE STUDIES
__________________________________________________________________________
Research in agroforestry at the Brandenburg University of Technology in Cottbus
C. Böhm1, A. Quinkenstein1, D. Freese1, R. F. Hüttl1,2
1
Brandenburg University of Technology, Chair of Soil Protection and Recultivation, Germany
2
Helmholtz Centre Potsdam - GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Germany
Agroforestry has some traditions as optional land use system in Central Europe too. But during the last
eighty years, agroforestal management systems disappeared more and more due to the ongoing
industrialisation of agriculture and the resulting land consolidation.
The current rising demand of woody biomass for bioenergy in Germany will lead to an increased
cultivation of trees on farmland. As a result there are numerous research projects that deal with these
current issues.e.g. agroforestry systems with short rotation components.
The Chair of Soil Protection and Recultivation belonging to the Brandenburg University of Technology
is intensively engaged in the research field of agroforestry since many years. The background of this
research was and is to understand how fast growing tree species planted in short rotation coppices
and alley cropping systems affect abiotic and biotic functions of the environment. Positive effects have
been shown for the overall soil quality, the microclimate and the biodiversity.
The interaction between trees on crops and their impact on soil characteristics is the main focus of
research including studies of humus accumulation in soil, carbon sequestration and nutrient cycle.
Moreover, numerous studies are dealing with the carbon allocation in woody biomass, and hence, are
addressed to questions concerning site specific yields of woody biomass on agricultural land.
In this context, post-mining areas play a very important role. Connected with that, the development
and assessment of suitable reclamation measurements by using fast growing tree species is part of
several investigations. The majority of studies are integral parts of national or international
collaborative research projects founded by ministries, public institutions as well as industrial partners.
The presentation will give an overview about the research in agroforestry at the Chair of Soil
Protection and Recultivation, whereby some selected projects will be outlined in more detail.
7
Sustainable production of wood biomass for energy in alley cropping systems in
central Germany
M. Bärwolff and Dr. A. Vetter
Thuringian State Institute of Agriculture, Germany
The German joint research project „AgroForstEnergie – Economic and ecological evaluation of
agroforestry systems in farming practice“, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture
and Consumer Protection, was initialised to investigate alley-cropping systems which combine the
production of woody biomass for thermal utilisation (short rotation coppice, SRC) with conventional
field crops. The Thuringian State Institute of Agriculture is the coordinating one of four researching
partners. Superordinate targets aim on conserving productivity of the whole agricultural area,
production of highly demanded woody bioenergy sources on agricultural area, increase yield stability
of crops between SRC strips by windbreak effects and increase biodiversity in the agrarian landscape.
A 50 hectare field in a structurally poor and intensively agriculturally used area of Thuringia was
chosen to establish a large-scale silvoarable alley cropping system with short rotation coppice strips.
High yield poplar clones Max were planted as cuttings in two different planting schemes
(10.000 trees/ha and 3.300 trees/ha). Harvest takes place on a four year cycle by fully automatic
mowing cutters and on an eight year cycle by forest harvesting technologies respectively. SRC strips
are arranged South-North against the prevailing wind direction. Three different distances (48, 96, 144
meters) between SRC strips are tested. Additionally, willow clones Tora and several native forest
species (Populus tremula, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Carpinus betulus, Robinia
pseudoacacia and a collection of flowering shrubs) were interspersed between the Max clones to
increase ecological significance. Between the SRC strips a conventional crop rotation consisting of
winter wheat, spring barley and winter rape is cultivated. The objective is to deduce possibilities of
improvement and make relevant information available for practice and consultancy. Besides
documentation of costs and earnings, further research fields include microclimate, flora, fauna and soil
properties.
Keywords: short rotation coppice, poplar, windbreak, silvoarable, alley cropping
8
Alley-Cropping Trials in Lower Saxony, Early Results
G. von Wühlisch1, K. Pfennig1, H. Grünewald1, J.-M. Greef2, K.-U. Schwarz2
1
Johann Heinrich von Thünen-Institute, Institute for Forest Genetics, Germany
2
Julius Kühn-Institut, Institut für Pflanzenbau und Bodenkunde, Germany
Two alley-cropping trials were laid out in Lower-Saxony, Germany, one each on arable and permanent
grassland with the aim to analyse both, economic and ecologic impacts of such systems. By producing
wood chips from the tree rows the farmer can add a valuable renewable energy source to his range of
produce and at the same time improve the site quality by reducing wind speeds and transpiration
processes, controlling erosion, increasing nutrient cycling in the soil, adding to species diversity and
more. The wood strips are 12 m wide, oriented in north-south direction and consist mainly of balsam
poplar (Populus spp.) on the arable land and willow (Salix spp.) on the grassland with some additional
hybrid-aspen and shrubs for ecological improvement. The trees are planted in six rows at a spacing of
2.0 m by 0.5 m. The fields between the tree strips are 48 m wide in both trials; however on the arable
land an additional variant of 96 m width is included to better study the reach of tree row influence. On
the arable land crops of winter-rape, winter-wheat, broad bean, maize, and winter-barley are rotated.
Results presented cover the first 3-year period. The development of the tree strips was favourable on
the arable land trial, whereas the development on the grassland was poor mainly due to drought, but
also deer and hare grazing and damages due to mice. After the first three years the balsam poplar
reached heights from 5 to 6 m on the arable land and yielded wood chips averaging 2-5 dry t ha-1 per
year, which is acceptable for the first rotation. The yields of the agricultural crops ranged between 7
and 10 t ha-1 in the case of winter-wheat with a decrease of productivity near the wood strips and an
increase towards the middle between the strips, both for the narrow and wide fields. The wind speeds
were reduced significantly even at distances of 46 m by the tree strips in summer aspect with leaves.
Both trials will be continued and valuable data is expected once the trees have established
themselves and their effects can be evaluated in the long run.
9
Restoring Swiss Agroforestry: It’s not all about money
F. Sereke1, A.R. Graves2, D. Dux1, M. Dobricki1, J.H.N Palma3, F. Herzog1
1
Agroscope Research Station ART, Zürich, Switzerland
2
Natural Resources Management Institute, Cranfield University, UK
3
Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade Técnica de Lisboa, Portugal
Agricultural policy in Europe is changing, from decades of supporting monocultures toward fostering
neglected multifunctional approaches. However, farmers often resist to change again, as many have
already abandoned their traditionally multifunctional farming systems. In Switzerland, despite the
availability of environmental grants, trees in the agricultural landscapes are still declining. Therefore,
we aim at identifying the economic and social drivers of farmers’ behaviour to maintain or adopt
agroforestry practices.
The bio-physical (Yield-SAFE) and bio-economic (Farm-SAFE) model assessments indicate that,
compared to monoculture references, the agroforestry practices we studied: i) are predominantly more
productive (12 out of 14) and ii) can be more profitable (68% of 56 price and grant scenarios). Still,
environmental grants play a considerable role for the profitability of agroforestry practices.
A survey, based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour, with 50 randomly selected farmers is providing
evidence that: i) farmers view agroforestry as less productive than monoculture; ii) in terms of
motivations for adoption, farmers attribute the highest scores to the habitat ecosystem services (for
wildlife and livestock) and low scores to environmental grants; iii) reputational risks and perceived
behavioural control are critical explanatory variables in farmers’ non-adoption. This results indicate
that monetary incentives are not sufficient to change farmers’ behaviour.
We argue that multifunctional farming systems are more likely to be adopted through systematic
integration of stakeholder’ expectations and ecosystem services to realize potential synergies.
Keywords: multifunctional agriculture, ecosystem services, bio-economics, farmer behaviour,
participatory research, synergy
10
AGROFORESTRY – CARBON STOCK AND NUTRIENT CYCLE
Impact of organic soil amendments on the physical characteristics and yield
components of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in the Highlands of Cameroon
A. B. Takoutsing1, K. E. Asaah1, R. Yuh2, L. Kouodiekong1, Z. Tchoundjeu1
1
World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), African Humid Tropics Region, Cameroon
2
Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD), Cameroon
A field experiment was conducted in Kumbo in the Western Highlands of Cameroon to study the effect
of calliandra calothyrsus, compost manure along with a reference mineral fertilizer treatment on
physical characteristics, yield components and late blight severity of potato (Solanum tuberosum).
Two factors treatment combinations made up of fertilization schemes and sanitary measures were laid
out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Data collected on plant
height, stem diameter, plant vigor, total yield, marketable yield and late blight severity were subjected
to a multivariate ANOVA and means separated with the Dunnett t-test assuming the C. calothyrsus as
the focal amendment.
Results obtained revealed a very highly significant (p<0.020) effect of
fertilization schemes on growth characteristics and yield components of potato. The highest values of
plant height (29.73 cm) were recorded with Calliandra calothyrsus (29.73cm) and mineral fertilizer
(29.05cm) respectively while the highest values for stem diameter were recorded with mineral fertilizer
(0.84mm) and Calliandra calothyrsus (0.79mm) respectively. Plants under mineral fertilization and
calliandra calothyrsus were more vigorous than those under the other treatments (V > 7.5). Calliandra
calothyrsus amendment with or without fungicide application increased tuber yields over the control by
55 % and 30% respectively. Mineral fertilizers recorded the highest percentage of foliage infection by
late blight and when compared with calliandra calothyrsus increased foliage infection by 10%. The
correlation matrix showed that tuber yield had significant and positive correlation with stem diameter (r
= 0.74***), plant height (r = 0.61***), plant vigor (r = 0.61***) and commercial yield (r = 0.99***). Late
blight severity had negative correlation with total yield (r = - 37***) and commercial yield (r = - 34***),
but had positive correlation with non commercial yield (r = 34***). These results indicated that total
yield of potato depends on stem diameter, plant height and plant vigor and was strongly correlated
with commercial yield. From this study, Calliandra calothyrsus is effective in improving growth
characteristics and yield components of potato. It can therefore be recommended to potato farmers to
apply C. calothyrsus at a rate necessary to supply 180 kg N.ha-1 and control the late blight disease
with an appropriate fungicide in order to improve their production.
Keywords: solanum tuberosum, calliandra calothyrsus, late blight severity, organic manure, physical
characteristics, yield components.
11
Carbon storage in agroecosystems: a case study of the cocoa based agroforestry in
Ogbese Forest Reserve, Ekiti state, Nigeria
D.O. Oke and A.O.Olatiilu
Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
Large areas of the indigenous tropical forests in the southwestern part of Nigeria are being converted
into agricultural lands and these have been reported to have serious implications for biodiversity and
the environment. Cocoa based agroforestry is one of the common agricultural practices in this region
and comparative information on the carbon storage capacity of the cocoa agroforests is generally
lacking. In this study we evaluated the storage and partitioning of above-ground biomass and carbon
in the untouched and portions of Ogbese Forest Reserve that have been converted to cocoa
agroforests. Two types of cocoa agroforests (sparse and dense) were identified on the basis of
number of shade tree species per unit area. Above-ground biomass accumulation and carbon stock
varied significantly with land use type, with relatively undisturbed rainforest having the highest values
and sparse cocoa agroforests having the least. A reduction in above-ground carbon stock of 89.82%
and 71.20% was observed 10 years after conversion of tropical rainforest to sparse and dense cocoa
agroforests respectively.
12
Agroforestry systems for the production of woody biomass in marginal regions in
Northeast Germany
A. Quinkenstein1, C. Böhm1, D. Freese1, R. F. Hüttl1,2
1
2
Helmholtz Centre Potsdam - GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Germany
In 2009, the share of renewable energies in final energy consumption in Germany reached a
summarized value of 10.3 %. According to the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature
Conservation and Nuclear Safety, biomass was the major contributor with 7.2% (hydropower 0.8%,
wind energy 1.6%, others 0.7). The area of agricultural land that is needed to produce the amount of
biomass for energetical utilization was about 1.8 mil. ha in 2010 (about 15.4 % of the total agricultural
area in Germany). However, to meet the EU targets of 18 % from renewables in 2020, Germany needs
to further increase the area under cultivation for regrowing resources within the near future.
A significant potential for the production of bioenergy carriers can be found in the mining region of
Lower Lusatia. Over the last hundred years about 82,000 ha of land have been turned into dumps by
the ongoing lignite mining activities. The sandy substrates of the reclamation areas are typically
nutrient-poor with a low water-holding capacity. Combined with limited precipitation during the growing
season a regular crop production is economically rather questionable.
A promising land-use option are short rotation coppices (SRC) or alley cropping systems (ACS) for the
production of woody biomass for bioenergy generation to increase the economical benefit from these
sites. Long term experiments with Robinia pseudoacacia L. and other tree species have led to the
conclusion that R. pseudoacacia L. is the most productive species under these unfavorable site
conditions. Based on these results an economical comparison of a SRC, an ACS and an area with
conventional agriculture (CA) was conducted. The results show that SRC was the economically most
productive system followed by ACS and then CA. These outcomes indicate that an economically
reasonable production of woody biomass on the reclamation sites is feasible and therefore of special
relevance for the local concerned farmers who are willing to change their future management of land.
Keywords: black locust, land reclamation, open cast lignite mining, bioenergy, annuity
13
Poplars in Agroforestry, Suitability due to Its Low Fertilizer Requirements
G. von Wühlisch
Johann Heinrich von Thuenen-Institute, Institute for Forest Genetics, Germany
On an area of 10 million ha poplars are grown world-wide in plantations; a large proportion operated
as agroforestry systems. Poplars obviously have characters making them favourable for agroforestry.
Among these favourable characters the key character seems to have been discovered only now. The
fast growth and high biomass production of poplar lets expect a high demand for fertilizer, especially
nitrogen. However, correlations under controlled conditions between the amount of biomass produced
and the amounts of nutrient applied no close relations could be established. Sufficient nitrogen levels
were determined in leaf and stem tissues irrespective of fertilisations and even on poor sites. In the
same sense, fertilizing recommendations are not consistent, ranging from 10 to over 100 kg N per ha.
Scientific studies were not able to explain these discrepancies and did not come to plausible
conclusions. Recent reports about the properties of plant growth promoting bacteria in poplars give a
conclusive explanation for these findings. Among the large number of taxa of endophytic bacteria
found in the living tissues of poplars, diazotrophic bacteria were identified, which are able to convert
inert N2 into plant accessible reactive nitrogen compounds like ammonia (NH3). This enables poplars
and willows to actively fix airborne nitrogen like legumes do. Poplar explants thrived well on N-free
medium under lab conditions and different tests proved the ability to incorporate atmospheric N.
Research is required to bring light into the mechanism of N-fixation in Salicaceae and find ways to
better utilize this valuable character. In face of a surplus of noxious nitrogen compounds in the
atmosphere, soils, waters, and oceans as well as saving energy and expenses for needless fertilizer
this may have far-reaching implications for the sustainable use of poplars in agroforestry systems.
Keywords: populus, fertilization, nitrogen-fixation, endophytic bacteria, diazotrophic bacteria
14
Aspects of nitrogen availability in agro- and short rotation forestry
N. Lamersdorf, L. Hartmann, P. Schmidt-Walter
Büsgen-Institute, Dep. of Soil Science of Temperate and Boreal Ecosystems, University of Göttingen,
Germany
With respect to biomass production, plant available nitrogen (N) is one of the most important factors
deciding on the success of agroforestry (AF) systems. Especially when short rotation forestry (SRF) is
introduced – for instance as an alley cropping system – biomass export might reduce nitrogen
availability significantly and N fertilization has to be taken into account. However, enhanced nitrogen
export might be also wanted under specific site conditions (e.g. reducing soil and soil-water
eutrophication through high inputs from intensive agriculture in drinking water catchments). Here
specific management practices in AF and SRF might be a promising approach to accomplish a
balance between biomass production and bio-remediation, especially with respect to nitrogen.
Date will be presented from running research projects, e.g. from a study in a water catchment
supplying the city of Hannover / Germany with drinking water, where specific soil treatments, tree
species selections and harvesting practices in AF / SRC systems significantly influence the nitrate
output and N availability. Furthermore data of the internal N fluxes (e.g., recirculation of N during
autumn leaf fall, the role of Nmin as a starting measure to evaluate the N availability) will be given and
discussed in this context.
Keywords: short rotation forestry, poplar, willow, nitrogen, nitrate leaching
15
TREE (AND CROP) SPECIES SUITABLE FOR AGROFORESTRY
Variation in Drought Tolerance and Growth Performance of Robinia pseudoacacia L.
T. Guse, G. von Wühlisch
Johann Heinrich von Thünen-Institute, Institute for Forest Genetics, Germany
Higher temperatures and less precipitation predicted for North-East Germany create conditions which
suit only few possible tree species. In agro forestry systems, exposure of trees to sun and wind is even
harsher when they are lined out in rows, causing a higher loss of water and drought stress. Black
locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) shows promising potential to withstand these adverse conditions to
shelter the crop plants, while improving soil quality and yielding sufficient biomass when harvested.
Analysis of chlorophyll fluorescence (quantum yield) for drought tolerance and growth performance
(height, diameter, biomass) in seedlings under different conditions (greenhouse, field) show a high
level of variation, both among the progeny of over 40 stands sampled in six European countries and
among individuals within progenies. There are clear differences of performance relative to the growth
conditions between the progenies. Variances among the progenies of stands was found to be low as
compared to the variance within the progenies for both, drought tolerance and growth performance.
For this reason, improvement work shall focus on selecting suitable individuals within progenies, rather
than on selecting suitable progeny. The selection index shall give high weight to drought tolerance. In
order to find a sufficient number of drought tolerant genotypes the screening intensity needs to be
high. Therefore the screening methodology employed is required to provide reliable results while
selecting among large numbers of young seedlings. The actual drought tolerance and growth
performance of these candidates can be verified only after several years of field testing.
Keywords: black locust, Robinia pseudoacacia, tree improvement, chlorophyll fluorescence, short
rotation coppice, drought tolerance
16
Yield-transpiration relations of bioenergy crops:
How can we optimize water use in agroforestry systems under climate variability?
M. Veste1, D. Mantovani2, S. Lebzien3, D. Freese2
1
CEBra e.V. - Centre for Energy Technology Brandenburg, Germany
2
3
Conpower Rohstoffe GmbH, Oldenburg, Germany
Climate variability and drought periods will increase in the next decades as a result of climate change.
In southern Brandenburg the cultivation of short-rotation plantation and and new bioenergy crop for
biomass production will be an alternative land-use for marginal lands. The area is characterized by
recultivated former open-cast mining with low nutrient content and limited ground water resources. As
the availability of water influences also the biomass production significantly, a central role is played by
the optimisation of these processes through the species selection. As an early successional and
nitrogen-fixing tree species black locust (Robina pseudoacacia) has been already successfully used
for land reclamation and biomass production in southern Brandenburg. The Giant Knotweed, Fallopia
sachalinensis.) is a new bioenergy crop and is characterized by a high annual biomass production and
can be harvested 2-3 times during the growing season.
Under water limitation the understanding of the governing processes of an efficient water use in
agroforestry systems is important to develop a growth models for predictions of biomass production
under various water regimes. For the determination of yield-transpiration relations at whole plant level
we developed a new wick lysimeter system, which allows us to study plant growth under controlled
water regimes (well-watered, moderate, drought). The lysimeters are filled with sandy loam. Water is
supplied by an automatic drip irrigation system and water amounts are controlled by the actual
evapotranspiration and water demand of the plants. Transpiration is calculated on the basis of water
input, storage and drainage in daily intervals.
Photosynthesis is the essential process for biomass productivity. CO2 uptake and water loss is
controlled by the stomata on the leaf level. Environmental stress effects this physiological process.
Therefore, the ecophysiological response of the plants to different soil water availability will be
investigated by using a portable gas exchange system with a minicuvette system.
The soil-plant-atmosphere processes as well as the ecophysiological plant performance obtained from
the experimental water balance and the gas-exchange measurements will be integrated into a
physical-based ecological model (CoupModel). After the model calibration and validation, yield crop
modelling under different environmental scenarios will be performed.
17
Improving agroforestry tree species for fruit/seed production: does a small-size first
generation breeding population preserve natural genetic diversity? A lesson from
Allanblackia floribunda (Clusiaceae)
A. R. Atangana1, J. Beaulieu2, A. Gagné3, E. van der Vlis4, D. van Houten4, H. Hendrickx4, D. P.
Khasa5, and S. Chang1
1
Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
2
Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Wood Fibre Centre, Québec, Canada
3
4
5
Centre d’étude de la forêt, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
Unilever Research and Development Vlaardingen, The Netherlands
Centre d’étude de la forêt, Chaire de recherche du Canada en génomique forestière et
environnementale et Institut de biologie intégrative et des systèmes, Université Laval, Québec,
Canada
Agroforestry practices promote cultivation of locally important trees and shrubs to provide farm
products. One such species is Allanblackia floribunda or tallow tree, an evergreen and dioecious tree
species distributed naturally in rainforests in western central Africa. Seeds of the tallow tree are rich in
hard fat consisting mostly of stearic and oleic acids that have been shown to reduce plasma
cholesterol levels and thus the risks of heart attack. It would be advantageous to cultivate A. floribunda
in order to increase seed production. We determined whether the species could be genetically
improved for fruit/seed production by sampling 17 to 40 fruits from each of 70 trees that were
distributed among four sites in wild stands in Cameroon. Fruit and seed characteristics had highly
significant between- and within-tree variations but no between-site phenotypic variation. Seed fat
stearic and oleic acid concentrations ranged from 44 to 66% and from 25 to 48%, respectively.
Moderate repeatabilities were identified in fruit characteristics and mean seed mass. We then selected
twenty “plus trees” for breeding and investigated the impact of this small-size phenotypic selection on
preservation of genetic diversity of the source population using eight informative microsatellite loci.
Our data indicate that breeding A. floribunda from 20 trees would not reduce nuclear genetic diversity;
however, there was a slight increase in inbreeding in the breeding population. Based on results from
this study, we recommend that (i) the size of the breeding population should be greater than 20 trees
and the breeding population should be sampled from a more widely distributed base population, (ii)
the mating system in the species should be documented, and (iii) a subgroup breeding strategy should
be applied to control inbreeding levels throughout a tree improvement involving the tallow tree.
Keywords: agroforestry products, inbreeding, seed fat content, tree breeding, microsatellite loci,
genetic and phenotypic variation
18
Short rotation coppices (SRC) with Poplar and Willow as a component of modern
agroforestry - measuring and modelling groundwater recharge
P. Schmidt-Walter
Büsgen-Institute, Dep. of Soil Science of Temperate and Boreal Ecosystems, Göttingen, Germany
Cultivation of Short Rotation Coppice (SRC) as a component of modern agroforestry (e.g. alley
cropping systems) with fast growing tree species like Poplar and Willow on arable soils is considered
as an effective and environmentally sound way to produce biomass for the generation of heat and/or
electrical power. In addition appreciated side-effects like increased carbon sequestration and reduced
nitrate-leaching to aquifers resulting from less intensive management practices (e.g. reduced fertilizer
input, no annual soil tillage) are reported for SRC and agroforestry systems (AF). However, trees
compared to annual crops consume generally more water through enhanced rates of
evapotranspiration and thus the groundwater recharge or even the ground water table might be
significantly reduced under tree based agricultural systems. As a substantial increase of AF - and in
particular SRC-cultivations – is projected throughout Europe, water issues are coming into focus and
the impact on local groundwater recharge rates needs to be evaluated.
In the given paper data and modelling approaches are presented concerning water issues of SRC in a
drinking water catchment called “Fuhrberger Feld” near Hannover. Here several SRC plots of different
age and species are situated, in which measurements of hydrological variables are conducted. The
collected data are used to parameterise and validate a SVAT-model in order to reveal the effects of
stand and soil properties on the groundwater recharge. From the current work, selected aspects will
be presented.
Keywords: short rotation coppice, water budgets, SVAT-model, poplar, willow
19
Impact of metals on the growth and metabolite production of Vetiver grass
F.A. Melato, R.I. McCrindle, T. Regnier and N.S. Mokgalaka-Matlala
Tshwane University of Technology, Department of Chemistry, Pretoria, South Africa
Vetiver grass (Vetiveria zizanioides L.), due to its unique morphological and physiological
characteristics, has been widely used in erosion and sediment control as well as in agroforestry
technology. Pot trials were conducted to investigate the effect of As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn on the
growth, biosynthesis of chlorophyll and production of phenolic compounds in Vetiver grass. Vetiver
tillers were exposed to different concentrations (10, 50, 100, and 500 mg/L) of each metal. ICP-MS
and ICP-OES were used to determine the distribution of metals in the plant. All the plants, with the
exception of those exposed to Fe, started to show significant signs of stress at high metal
concentrations. The growth of plants treated with As was severely stunted which worsened with
increasing As concentration. The most severe case was observed at 500 mg/L where the plant did not
survive. A similar trend was observed with chlorophyll. Chlorophyll was determined using both a
handheld-chlorophyll meter and an extraction method. The plants growing in Fe exhibited the highest
total chlorophyll content while those in As produced the lowest. Stress induced through the presence
of high levels of toxic metals is known to stimulate the production of secondary metabolites as a
mechanism for plant detoxification. Total phenolics content in Vetiver plants increased with increasing
concentration of metals in the soil. The ability of Vetiver grass to survive in high metal concentration
levels is an indication that it can tolerate and adapt to harsh growing conditions presented by mine
tailings and thus has a great potential to be applied in phytoremediation strategies.
Keywords: vetiver, phytoremediation, secondary metabolites
20
The influence of irrigation on the establishment and annual growth of different poplar
clones under the specific site conditions of Brandenburg, Germany
D. Landgraf and C. Steinke
P&P Forest Tree Nursery, Eitelborn, Germany
Besides harvesting, the highest cost for sustainable management of fast growing tree species is
establishment (e.g. cost of cuttings and plants). Many areas that are selected for fast growing tree
species are characterized by sandy soils and, particularly in the first months after establishment, low
precipitation. The first months after establishment determine success or failure, especially for fastgrowing tress species planted as cuttings, such as poplar and willow. The re-establishment of a
plantation is very expensive and can be decisive for a positive or negative economic result.
Within the ISOWOOD Breeding Project, the influence of irrigation (e.g. droplet irrigation) on the growth
of different poplar clones in the first years after planting was investigated. Poplar clones from Italy (AF
2, AF 6, AF 8 and Monviso), Hungary (Kopecky, Koltay and Pannonia) and commonly used clones
(Androscoggin, Muhle Larsen and MAX 3) were established in a randomized field trial in 2009
southwest of the town of Calau in the southern part of Brandenburg, Germany. The soil is a typical
Cambisol characterized by a high amount of sand. The mean annual precipitation is approximately
550 mm, with nearly 300 mm during the vegetation period.
The comparison between the irrigated and the non-irrigated areas revealed no obvious difference in
the rate of successfully sprouting plants. However, the irrigated plants of all clones showed
significantly higher height growth in the year of establishment of up to double the height. This result
was underlined in the second year by an exponential increase. Within two years the Androscoggin
clone grew to more than 3 m height as opposed to 1.4 m without irrigation.
To calculate the economic benefit of such an irrigation system, the total growth capacity of all
investigated poplar clones was calculated using the most precise valuation model after Hartmann
(2010). A yield over two years of nearly 4.5 t absolute dry mass per ha was calculated for
Androscoggin with irrigation (0.2 without), followed by AF 8 with 4.2 t absolute dry mass per hectare
(1.9 without irrigation) and AF 2 with 3.6 t absolute dry mass per hectare (1.6 without irrigation). The
value of increased wood yield due to irrigation will be compared to the costs of droplet irrigation.
Keywords: poplar, poplar clones, irrigation, droplet irrigation, grow capacity
21
Long-term maize-pigeonpea intercropping increases productivity and rainfall
infiltration in a degraded sandy soil in central Mozambique
L. Rusinamhodzi 1, 3,, M. Corbeels 2, M. van Wijk 3, J. Nyamangara4, and K. E. Giller 3
1
CIAT-TSBF Harare, Harare, Zimbabwe
2
CIRAD-Annual Cropping Systems C/O Embrapa-Cerrados, Brasília/Fortaleza, Planaltina, Brasil
3
Plant Production Systems Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
4
ICRISAT-Bulawayo, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Intercropping provides a pathway for the efficient utilization of growth resources that often leads to
yield advantages and increased stability compared to sole cropping. In central Mozambique,
extensification characterized by slash and burn with non use of fertilizer on degraded sandy soils is the
dominant crop production strategy. In these systems, opportunities to improve crop productivity to
generate higher organic matter are limited. A greater proportion of farmers are practicing maize (Zea
mays L.) –pigeonpea (Cajanus Cajan) intercropping and an intercrop chronosequence can easily be
identified. We evaluated two intercropping strategies practiced by farmers in central Mozambique, over
two seasons, i.e. alternate row intercrops and within-row intercrops for both maize/pigeonpea and
maize/cowpea. The other objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of duration of maize–
pigeonpea intercropping on rainfall infiltration. Simulated rainfall with intensity of 70 mm hr-1 was
applied for two hours to selected plots of maize and pigeonpea intercropping chronosequence. The
durations of intercropping compared were zero, one, three and five years, zero years duration
corresponded to continuous monocropping of maize. The advantage of maize/pigeonpea intercrops is
that in successive years a ratoon crop of pigeonpea can be grown reducing investment costs of seed
and providing erosion control early in the season when much of the field surface will be uncovered.
The within-row intercrops were more productive with land equivalent ratios (LER) of between 1.2 and
1.6, compared with alternate row intercrops with LER values ranging between 1.05 and 1.40 for the
two seasons. Although less productive, the alternate row intercrops had a greater potential of
providing surface cover between the rows of the main crop. Results of infiltration measurements
showed a four-fold increase in steady state infiltration in intercrop duration of five years compared to
continuous maize monocropping. The final infiltration rates were 6, 8, 15, and 22 mm hr-1 for zero,
one, three and five-year duration respectively. Run-off losses were 94, 88, 68 and 42% for zero, one,
three and five-year duration respectively. It is concluded from this study that steady state infiltration
rate improves substantially with duration of maize-pigeonpea intercropping. Intercropping improves
moisture conservation in agricultural systems especially where mulching with crop residues is not
feasible due to competition for livestock feed.
Keywords: maize-pigeonpea intercropping, productivity, rainfall infiltration, central Mozambique
22
AGROFORESTRY AND BIODIVERSITY
Biodiversity in different secondary habitats of Mediterranean dehesas
M. Lorente, G. Moreno, E. Juárez, L. López, G. Bornay
Universidad de Extremadura
Low-input farming systems are expected to be more environmentally sound than conventional
agricultural systems, since the latter are generally intensive systems that use pesticides and inorganic
nutrient fertilisers to produce crops and animals. Agroforestry systems such as low-input silvopastoral
systems, frequently contribute to biological diversity, especially with regard to plant species richness
and bird abundance. Moreover, these extensive systems usually include non-productive or marginal
habitats (hereafter referred as to secondary habitats), which may support invertebrate species such as
earthworms, butterflies, spiders and beetles.
Dehesa, a low-input silvopastoral system, is amongst the most prominent High Nature Value (HNV)
farming systems in Europe and maintains high biological diversity including several endangered
animal species. Dehesa grasslands are protected by the EU Habitats Directive. Additionally, a
significant proportion of species commonly found in dehesas has been included in the Natura 2000
European web for nature conservation.
We assessed the contribution of secondary habitats and lineal elements to overall species richness of
plants, wild bees, spiders and earthworms in 10 dehesa farms located in northern Extremadura
(Spain). We mapped habitats included in each farm according to a standardised protocol proposed by
the European BioBio Project (Dennis et al 2010). We monitored 114 areal habitats and 31 lineal
elements, and we sampled 439 different flowering plants, 72 bees species, 172 spider species and 19
earthworms species. Most of the habitats had some unique plant species that were not found in other
habitats within the same farm. Main habitats, in term of surface, harbour only around just a third of
plant species. Secondary habitats and lineal elements appeared essential for bees species richness.
Spiders were more abundant (67%) in secondary habitats than in large habitats. Our data demonstrate
the role of secondary habitats of Mediterranean dehesas for diversity of invertebrates and plants.
23
Flowering of major farm forest component bamboo in Dawro Zone of Southern
Ethiopia and its consequences on livelihood and environment
D. Sertse1; T. Disasa1; K. Bekele1; M. Alebachew1
1
Holetta Agricultural Research Center
Flowering and hence seed setting is the most infrequent phenomenon in most bamboo species. The
phenomenon occurs in an interval of 10 to 120 years depending on the species. Seed setting in most
bamboo is followed by total death of all the plants, which might be devastative for the whole
ecosystem and troubling lives dependent on bamboos. Ethiopia is represented by two naturally
growing bamboo species; the highlander Arundinaria alpina and the lowlander Oxytenanthera
abyssinica. With these two species, Ethiopia contributes the larger fraction in Africa accounting for
about 67% of bamboo coverage of the continent. Recently, the rare event bamboo flowering has
occurred in both species of Ethiopia hence many populations are vanishing. Despite the fact that
flowering thereby seed setting is a blessing phenomenon for a more genetically diverse next cohort,
mass death of bamboo usually threaten the entire ecosystem and livelihoods of such areas. The
current flowering of highland bamboo in southern Ethiopia, Dawro zone where bamboo is major
component of farm forest particular seems to have more severe consequences threatening the
livelihood and the environment. Bamboo is the second important commodity next to the main staple
food enset (Enset vetricosum) in the area. Death due to flowering already has devoured over 60% of
the bamboo plantations in districts such as Tocha and Merkan. As a result the communities are
suffering from the adverse consequences this biological enigma. In these areas there has been no
record of bamboo flowering for at least the last 100 years. This paper presents details of actual and
potential consequences of mass death of bamboo due to flowering in Dawro zone of southern
Ethiopia.
Keywords: Bamboo flowering, mass death, consequences, environment, livelihood.
24
AGROFORESTRY AND PHYTOREMEDIATION
Role of Lippia scaberrima Sond. in the phytoremediation of gold mine tailings
S.P. Lepule, S. Combrinck, N.S. Mokgalaka, T. Regnier and I. Weiersbye*
Department of Chemistry, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
*School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
South Africa
Lippia scaberrima Sond. is an aromatic shrub of semi-arid, summer-rainfall regions and occurs on
over-grazed grasslands and soils contaminated by gold and uranium mine tailings. The survival
strategy of plants growing on contaminated soils may lead to an increased production of secondary
metabolites. Where such plants have commercially-valuable attributes, their use to stabilize
contaminated soils and tailings also provides employment opportunities. The production of aromatic
plants is considered a particularly safe option for mine waste, since they are generally unpalatable to
grazers and the distillation methods used for essential oil isolation yield products free of metals and
radioactive material. The main objective of the study was to identify carvone-rich chemotypes
established on mine tailings, since carvone has antifungal properties. Plants were harvested in spring
and summer from natural populations, hydrodisilled, and the oils obtained were analysed by gas
chromatography and compared to those obtained from plants growing on mine tailings. GC analysis
revealed that there was no link between the levels of metal contamination in the soil and the essential
oil profiles. Within a single population, essential oils isolated from individual specimens displayed large
variations in the concentrations of terpenes present. The variations were attributed to the genetic
diversity. There was no evidence for significant bioaccumulation of toxic metals in the different plant
parts. The findings emphasize that L. scaberrima is not a hyperaccumulator, but has genetically
adapted to the harsh conditions of the mine tailings environment. The absence of metals in the
essential oils concurred with our expectation that metals would not be transferred into the oils during
isolation using steam distillation. This is a very promising finding which implies that the essential oils
of L. scaberrima can be used without posing a risk to human health.
Keywords: carvone, Lippia scaberrima, phytoremediation, tailings
25
Potential of Selected Agricultural Crops to Take up Iron Cyanides from Contaminated
Soils
T. Dimitrova, F. Repmann, D. Freese
Chair of Soil Protection and Recultivation, Brandenburg University of Technology, Cottbus, Germany
Cyanide species are environmental contaminants which can potentially be remediated via plants,
provided that the cyanides are in a plant-available form and do not cause severe toxic effects.
Phytoremediation can be performed using a mixed vegetation cover of perennial and annual plants.
Cyanide contaminated soils, however, pose toxic effects on the vegetation and annual plants are
especially sensitive to them. Therefore it is important that the crops planted show resistance and are
able to take up the contaminant. In total 21 species of legumes, grasses, sunflower and mustards
were seeded in four types of soil contaminated with cyanide in order to determine their resistance to
the soil toxicity. The soil originated at the site of a former manufactured gas plant in Cottbus,
Germany. The soil types contained different levels of water soluble iron cyanide species ([Fe4(CN)6]2-,
[Fe3(CN)6]3-) ranging from 0,5 mg kg-1 to 160 mg kg-1 fresh weight (FW). The concentrations of total
cyanide in the four substrates lied between 26 mg kg-1 and 1283 mg kg-1 (FW). Germination and
survival rate of the plants were determined after a four-week growth period in the soils. In order to
verify cyanide uptake and toxicity effects on the roots the 7 most resistant plant species (sunflower,
mustard, alfalfa, lupine, red clover, barley and millet) were further tested in a two-layer rhizotrone
experiment with agricultural substrate and the two most toxic soil types. After 28 days of observation,
the plants were harvested. The plant biomass was ground and extracted in sodium hydroxide. The
extracts were digested and distilled using micro distillation in order to identify the cyanide
concentration in the plant tissue. Cyanide was measured via a spectrophotometric flow injection
analysis (FIA) system. The cyanide concentration in the plants ranged from 1,4 mg kg
to 346 mg kg
-1
and 177 mg kg
-1
-1
FW in lupine
FW in mustard and sunflower, respectively. However, the cyanide
accumulated in sunflower was, with respect to the biomass higher than in mustard. Furthermore
sunflower showed the highest resistance to the toxicity of the contaminated soil. The results suggest
that all selected plants were able to take up water dissolved iron cyanide complexes and accumulate
them. Sunflower, however, proved to take up cyanide most efficiently. Therefore it is suitable as an
annual crop to enhance phytoremediation of iron cyanides on field scale.
Keywords: cyanide, iron cyanides, phytoremediation, sunflower
26
Utilisation of Combretum erythrophyllum as a source of antimicrobial compounds in
phytoremediation
S.Combrinck, C. Kouekam, T. Regnier, N.S. Mokgalaka and I. Weiersbye*
*School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
South Africa
Phytoremediation of contaminated mining sites generally involves the use of plants indigenous to the
region. Rural communities may benefit from such plants if they have commercially valuable attributes.
Several populations of Combretum erythrophyllum, a tree with medicinal properties, were planted on
gold mine seepage sites as part of an established phytoremediation programme. In this study, high
performance liquid chromatography using an acetonitrile/water mobile phase was applied to obtain
phenolic profiles of leaf material of trees growing on contaminated soils over the growing season.
These profiles were compared to those from natural environments. Chemometric models, using the
peak area data, were constructed to determine the relationship between trees from different sites.
Samples harvested in February generally contained higher levels of phenolic compounds than those
harvested in May. Scatter plots, obtained from chemometric models, indicated a separation of mine
and natural samples and clustering according to the month of harvest. Levels of the antimicrobial
compounds apigenin, kaempferol and genkwanin were also generally higher in the mine populations.
Biofilms of Listeria monocytogenes and Candida albicans were exposed to methanolic leaf extracts
and biofilm inhibition of both pathogens was observed. Inductively coupled plasma techniques
indicated that only low levels of metals were present in the leaves. Leaf extracts would therefore be
safe to use as a source of antimicrobials. The finding that extracts of the tree are able to inhibit
biofilms, which are less vulnerable to antimicrobials than their planktonic counterparts, is very
promising and suggests that these extracts may be suitable for application as disinfectants. This study
has provided a useful example of the application of chemometrics as a valuable tool for the study of
plant secondary metabolites in the mining environment.
27
Chemical variation and phytoremediation potential of Helichrysum splendidum
M.F. Mashigo, S. Combrinck, N.S. Mokgalaka and T. Regnier
Helichrysum splendidum, an indigenous South African shrub, has potential for phytoremediation since
some Helichrysum species are known to be metal tolerant. Pot trials were conducted to determine
tolerance towards Cu and Pb. The soils were artificially contaminated with Cu(II) and Pb(II) with
concentrations ranging from 10 -1000 ppm. ICP-MS and ICP-OES were used to determine the spatial
distribution of metals in the plant. Stress induced through the presence of high levels of toxic metals is
known to stimulate the production of secondary metabolites. In this study, the essential oil
compositions of natural populations were investigated for potential commercial application to provide
for local beneficiation. Plants were harvested from different localities to study the seasonal chemical
variability. Oils were isolated by hydrodistillation and analysed by gas chromatography. The major
constituents of the oil were 1, 8 cineole, β-phellandrene, germacrene D, δ-cadinene, α-cadinol,
spathulenol, T-cadinol, bicyclogermacrene D and β-sesquiphellandrene. However, the chemical
compositions of the oils varied, depending on the growing localities and growth stage. Differences in
the chemical compositions of the essential oils were evident when the results were compared to
previous reports. Our findings indicated that the essential oils of H. splendidum harvested from
different localities differ in their chemical compositions. Many Helichrysum species are traditionally
used for the treatment of conditions caused by bacteria and fungi. The antifungal activities of the
essential oil were tested against various fruit and grain crops including Penicillium from cactus pear,
Lasiodiplodia theobromae and Alternaria alternata from avocado, Fusarium oxysporum from maize
and Penicillium digitatum from citrus. The in-vitro assays were performed using different concentration
of the essential oil, and in some cases, a 100% inhibition of fungal growth was observed. The results
of this investigation may contribute to the development of new antifungal agents for fungal control.
Keywords: Helichrysum, essential oils, fungal pathogens, phytoremediation
28
AGROFORESTRY AND ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
Benefits provided by silvoarable agroforestry systems in the temperate region: a
review
P. Tsonkova1, D. Freese1, C. Böhm1, A. Quinkenstein1, E. Schaller2
1
Chair of Soil Protection and Recultivation, Brandenburg University of Technology, Cottbus, Germany
2
Chair of Environmental Meteorology, Brandenburg University of Technology, Cottbus, Germany
Alley cropping is a silvoarable agroforestry system in which trees are established in hedgerows on
arable land and crops are cultivated in the alleys between the hedgerows. In temperate regions such
systems could combine both agriculture and short rotation coppices for biomass production to form a
sustainable land use management and to maximize the provision of environmental and economic
benefits. Further knowledge of these benefits, also known as ecosystem services, might help to
increase the acceptance of such land use systems, currently not common in the modern agricultural
practice. In order to bridge this gap, our paper aims to present a comprehensive overview of benefits
provided by alley cropping in the temperate region. The literature reviewed indicates that alley
cropping has the potential to sequester carbon, enhance nutrient cycling, regulate water quality,
promote biodiversity, and increase productivity. Due to its structural flexibility and high potential to
improve both the utilization of resources and the microclimatic condition within the system, alley
cropping is considered a suitable land use system especially in sensitive regions susceptible to
drought stress. This review should be considered as a preliminary attempt to summarize the ecological
benefits based on published data from field experiments. In the long term, it will provide a basis for the
development of an assessment methodology assisting the implementation of alley cropping systems
by farmers.
Keywords: alley cropping, short rotation coppices, biomass production, soil sustainability, water
regulation, biodiversity
29
Short Rotation Forests in conflict: a qualitative approach towards the assessments
and decision making process
T. Sprenger
University of Göttingen
The discussion of sustainable biomass and energy production raises the awareness about shifting
land uses. Traditional economic driven decision making processes get more and more questioned by
a changing framework of involved stakeholders, e.g. from the energy market, political governance or
local people with changing demands towards land use and -services. From this it follows that the
economic driven sustainability is nowadays not sufficient for forestry or agricultural production
schemas and management either. Exemplary, difficulties can be observed within biogas and its related
agricultural maize production. However, the new Erneuerbare-Energien-Gesetz (EEG, Renewable
Energy Law) fosters the use of woody residues from Agricultural areas and Agroforestry itself. The
critical forestry point of view underlines that existing wood resources and residues may not be
sufficient to sustainably fulfil the demand of the energy market. This means that Short Rotation
Forestry (SRF) may become a new and emerging land use in Germany within a relatively short time.
Consequently the land structure may face additional and new changes from maize production towards
SRF. This may challenge stakeholders with positive or negative attitudes towards these production
forms, where management should be better prepared for discussion and decision making than seen
within the actual biogas discussions.
This contribution evaluates different case studies of conflict situations regarding biomass production. It
aims towards a qualitative approach describing needs and possibilities of SRF within conflicting land
use fields emphasizing needs of newly entered stakeholders (e.g. from the energy market, committed
land users or land owners with transition concepts).
Keywords: qualitative analysis, transition, SRF, sustainable biomass production
30
Assessing social-ecological sustainability of agroforestry systems: functional
biodiversity in Tomé-Acú, northern Brazil
D. Callo-Concha1 and M. Denich1
1
Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, Germany
Agroforestry, by combining agricultural and forestry components with specific management strategies
at plot community and landscape scales, has been acknowledged as a potential contributor to the
sustainable development of small farmers in tropical regions.
The introduced concept of functional biodiversity, emphasizes the importance of biodiversity on the
(social-ecological) system multi-scale dynamics and the implications on its functioning, seeking at the
system the overall sustainability as main goal.
In this study, for the assessment of functional biodiversity a user-adaptable protocol has been
developed: based on multicriteria and multivariate analysis as well as stakeholders’ participation. The
protocol combines ecological, productive, and operational proxies, and seeks at the identification of
management decisions and interventions that optimize the functioning of the system.
The above described approach was tested in a case-study: the Tomé-Açú agroforestry systems in the
Brazilian Amazon. Three groups of farmers were considered, based on the time of settlement,
property size, technological know-how, organization and access to market.
The study revealed that the most influential factors on functional biodiversity are farmers’ technical
background, adaptability, environmentally-friendly decisions and the search of financial profitability.
However, these decisions might imply detrimental trade-off effects such as decreases in biodiversity
indices (abundance and evenness) and the generation of byproducts.
The proposed protocol might provide a supportive platform for the integrated assessment of farmers
performance, and eventually it could assist to optimize farmers’ decisions when complex issues are
spotted; nevertheless its further testing seems necessary.
Keywords: Agroforestry systems, social-ecological systems, multicriteria analysis, ecosystem
services, sustainability
31
POSTER PRESENTATION
Agroforestry and nature conservation
N. Reppin
Chair for Strategic Landscape Planning and Management, TU Munich, Germany
Agro-forestry combine small-scale agricultural use with forestry, resulting in positive impacts such as
reduced soil degradation and erosion, biodiversity conservation, enrichment of empty agricultural
landscapes with trees, biotope networking and climate change mitigation by carbon sequestration. The
R&D project “Agro-forestry and nature conservation” commissioned by the Federal Agency for Nature
Conservation explored this research area.
Based on an analysis of literature and current research projects covering the European Union factors
have been detected directly affecting the production-related applicability of agro-forestry systems, their
economic competitiveness and implications to biodiversity, climate change and landscape scenery.
As a second step effects of selected alley-cropping systems in representative model regions in
Germany (like crop and grassland producing regions with good, respectively bad production
conditions) had been evaluated with regard to their nature conservation and economic opportunities.
The modeling of the biodiversity was carried out by using selected target species of birds and plants
which occur with a relatively high consistency when establishing agro-forestry systems. Results
obtained from the modeling confirms that particular bird species preferring wood habits benefit from
the implementation of Agro-forestry while open land species can be rather expected during the initial
period or after rotation. Possible effects of agro-forestry systems on the landscape scenery have been
measured by using 3D terrain visualization. It has been found that particularly in poor and intensively
used agricultural landscapes a clear aesthetic improvement can be achieved.
Proposals related to the implementation and establishment of ecologic-oriented systems and their
strategic spatial distribution are ultimately derived from the results of the analysis and modeling. The
final output of the project is a guideline for practitioners providing information about agro-forestry
systems in Germany.
Keywords: Biodiversity, Landscape scenery, Nature Conservation, Modeling
32
Potentials of Energy Wood for Biodiversity– a most simple approach
G. Uckert, J. Zscheischler
Leibniz-Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research Müncheberg, Germany
During the last years the energy wood production as plots - short rotation coppices (SRC) - or in lines agroforestry systems (AFS) – on arable land are increasingly discussed in Germany. On the one hand
both cropping systems contain several advantages that can provide solutions for ecological and
economical requirements in different target regions. Ecological benefits from new production systems
with short rotation trees thereby mainly derive from positive side effects (e.g. extensive and perennial
production as well as interfaces between their woody and agricultural elements). On the other hand
due to the strong landscape forming capacity of AFS and SRC acceptance has been identified as a
main restrictive factor for diffusion.
The presentation will show a most simple approach for identifying target regions in a first step and
therewith connected potentials of AFS and SCR to supply energy wood in Germany. It was assumed
that SRC show likely higher positive effects in sparsely wooded and AFS in cleared landscapes. Via
community based datas about the contingent of forest or landscape elements (like hedges, riparian
buffer zones, fruit trees etc.) the done GIS-Analysis identified under reasonable assumptions a
previous target area of about 630.000 hectares (385.000 in AFS and 245.000 in SRC) for an
integrated production of energy wood in Germany.
The aim of the presentation is to provide a basis for discussion to the following questions: Can the
introduced analysis be seen as a reasonable first approach before adding further site conditions? How
AFS should be designed to cover both economical and ecological requirements? And are AFS an
appropriate cropping system to provide energy wood in relevant dimensions? And last, because
implementing AFS could accumulate biotopes in emptied areas but that on farmers risk: Which role
AFS could play among possible “greening” measures within the second column of the CAP?
Keywords: agroforestry, energy wood, biodiversity, potentials, target regions
33
Cultivating fast-growing tree species on contaminated land in Central
Saxony/Germany
M. Grunert, A. Dietzsch
Sächsisches Landesamt für Umwelt, Landwirtschaft und Geologie
Referat 71 Pflanzenbau, Nachwachsende Rohstoffe, Leipzig, Germany
In order to investigate whether agricultural land that is contaminated with heavy metals or arsenic can
be used for the cultivation of fast-growing tree species, the Saxon State Office for the Environment,
Agriculture and Geology carried out a trial with respect to biomass production, the uptake of heavy
metals and arsenic as well as the utilisation of the harvested wood for the production of energy and
BtL-fuels.
Three varieties of poplar and five varieties of willow were planted in a double-row system. Concerning
growth, the trees showed an ideal performance. There has been a yield increment from an average of
6.3 t dry mass ha-1 a-1 (1st harvest after three years) to an average of 16 t dry mass ha-1 a-1 (2nd
harvest after two years). Concerning heavy metals and arsenic the leaves hold considerably higher
concentrations than the woody biomass. Further, willow shows a higher affinity to take up heavy
metals with concentrations of cadmium and zinc being two to three times higher than in poplar.
However, the reclamation of contaminated sites by means of phytosanitary effects of fast-growing tree
species cannot be expected in the foreseeable future.
The ecological evaluation indicates a relatively high number of ground vegetation species on the plot.
In the course of time there has been a decrease in the number of field species and an increase in the
share of shade- and moisture-loving forest species. Overall, the plant diversity can be categorised
between that of cropland and that of a complex forest.
Concluding, it can be said that while the cultivated trees yield a good return there is still need for
research concerning the productivity, harvesting technique, drying process and utilisation.
Keywords: heavy metals, short rotation coppice, biodiversity, arsenic
34
Cultivation of fast-growing tree species as short rotation coppice strips in
Saxony/Germany
M. Grunert, K. Ruscher
Short rotation coppice (SRC) strips do not only add to the landscape scenery, they can also act as
windbreaks and protection against soil erosion. In a trial the Saxon State Office for the Environment,
Agriculture and Geology investigated how SRC strips can be implemented in practice. In order to
diversify the agricultural area varieties of poplar and willow were planted as strips in 2002 and 2007.
Additionally, Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa) was added as it provides a soil meliorating effect due to its
quickly degradable litter.
Within the 1st year the poplars reached an average increment of 1.8 m, an average height of 2.9 m in
the 2nd year and in the 3rd year poplar variety Max 3 even reached a maximum height of 5.1 m. The
increment of both height and diameter was highest in the 2nd and 3rd growth year. Max 3 reached a
dry mass of 10t ha-1 a-1, both willow variety Zieverich and a mix of poplar and willow reached a dry
mass of 8 t ha-1 a-1. However, as roe deer is abundant in the area there has been damage due to
browsing and fraying.
Overall, a positive impact on the micro climate was observed, especially a windbreaking effect and an
increase of the ground temperature. From an ecological viewpoint the biodiversity of the SRC strips
can be compared to that of fallow land or conservation hedgerows. They provide a habitat for several
plant species as well as endangered spiders and ground beetles.
Concluding, it can be said that SRC strips represent an alternative to conventional hedgerows and are
even economically usable as the first timber can be cut after three years in a partial harvest.
Keywords: biodiversity, short rotation coppice, alley cropping
35
The Internet Platform energieholz-portal.de – Project AgroForNet
M. Hirsch
The joint research project AgroForNet – “Sustainable development of rural areas through a linking-up
of the producers and users of dendromass for energy generation purposes” runs from 2010 to 2014
and is sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). It aims at
promoting the sustainable and efficient production and supply of dendromass from agriculture, forestry
and the open landscape. Consequently, by developing innovative business models the regional
economy is strengthened. In order to achieve a long-term success, improving the communication and
cooperation between all stakeholders is crucial.
For this reason, a comprehensive internet platform (www.energieholz-portal.de) complements the
project activities by collecting research findings and providing up-to-date knowledge. The website
addresses practitioners as well as scientists and citizens interested in the topic. It is subdivided into
several parts. One part deals with all sorts of aspects concerning the production, allocation and
utilisation of dendromass. In addition, there is a subdivision focusing on the single German states in
order to emphasise regional activities and networks. Using the example of Saxony, a local information
platform is being created by the Saxon State Office for the Environment, Agriculture and Geology.
Here, information and experiences with a strong link to the region are compiled. One subsection
provides a map with information about existing short rotation coppice plantations in Saxony.
Furthermore, knowledge on the economically and ecologically sound cultivation of fast-growing tree
species based on regional site conditions is provided. Other topics include the use of woody residues
from landscape and forest management and the local utilisation of wood for producing energy.
The website thus supports the transdisciplinary linking-up of researchers and practitioners and allows
them to benefit from each other’s knowledge and experience. This helps to ensure an environmentally
safe land use management and contributes to the regional development.
Keywords: short rotation coppice, rural development, networking, sustainable land use, wood
residues, internet platform
36
Assessment the impact of using the alley cropping in the east of Morocco
Y. Chebli1, A. Keli2
1
National Institute of Agricultural Research (INRA), Morocco
2
National Agricultural School, Morocco
The objective of this work is to assess the impact of using the alley cropping as an agroforestry’s
practice on productivity of fodder shrubs and barley crop.
The study was carried out in the east of Morocco (Tanchefi). The vegetation parameters (biomass and
cover) were measured during three periods (February, April and June), while the interviews with the
livestock holders were conducted during June.
In order to diversify the productivity in the region and to meet nutritional requirement of livestock during
feed gap periods, Atriplex nummularia were planted in association with barley in bour (arid area). Soil
preparation has been achieved to increase the capture of rainfall
The results show that biomass and cover of Atriplex nummularia were increased of 15% and 10%
respectively compared to the control due to the addition of large amounts of organic material in learn
mulch barley, which has positive effects on the physical and chemical properties of soil, on microbial
activity and also on the soil productivity and to the soil preparation which facilitated the collection of
rainwater and the improvement of soil water status.
Farmers expressed their satisfaction with the use of this technique which has allowed an increase of
40% of barley grain yields. This result may be explained by the presence of fodder shrubs which
created a microclimate convenient to the development of barley.
The alley cropping is an agroforestry practice that allows to take advantage from the use of agricultural
by-products (grain and straw), to create a favorable micro-climate for the crop and to insure the
availability of green forage during the feed shortage season.
Keywords: Alley cropping, agroforestry, Atriplex nummularia, barley, east of Morocco
37
Agro-wood Production in Brandenburg, Germany – An Institutional Analysis
S. Keutmann12 and P. Grundmann12
1
Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Division of Resource Economics, Berlin, Germany
2
Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engeneering Potsdam-Bornim, Potsdam, Germany
In Germany as well as in other European countries the production of agro-wood has increased
continuously since its beginning in the late 1970s. In the Federal State of Brandenburg an expansion
of the cultivation area for agro-wood (short rotation coppices and alley cropping) could be observed
especially in the last decade and further growth can be predicted. For the latter, there are several
reasons: The special suitability of Brandenburg for agro-wood because of its dryness and poor soils
unfavorable for traditional crops; the planned settling of two biomass power plants by energy
companies in the region which will significantly raise the demand of agro-wood and finally the
economic competitiveness compared to the prevalent rye production. But the adequate institutional
setting, formal and informal rules, and the corresponding governance structures are still insufficient to
regulate and control the diverse implications caused by the agro-wood production.
In Brandenburg an institutional change has already started: The amendment of the German Federal
Forest Law in 2010, the passing of the Energiestrategie 2020 des Landes Brandenburg in 2008 and
the Biomassestrategie des Landes Brandenburg (2010). Latter strategy papers promote renewable
energies and give concrete aims for their further development in Brandenburg leading to the
implementation of new land use patterns like agro-wood. But the current institutions are not aligned
with the future requirements imposed by the expected strong enhancement of agro-wood production in
that region.
We assume that institutional change is needed to ensure the sustainability of the agro-wood
production in Brandenburg. Therefore we aim to understand the current institutional setting, the
political discourse and the resulting institutional change: We will analyze the implications of agro-wood
production for the ecological and social systems and will study the perception of the political discourse
by the relevant actors and their reactions on the different fields (e.g. organization structure, farming,
management).
Keywords: Agro-wood production, institutional change, Brandenburg, implications, sustainability,
suitability
38
Modern Agroforestry systems combining valuable timber production and short
rotation
coppice – land use systems with high long- lasting carbon storage capacity
C. Morhart, S. Springmann, H. Spiecker, P. E. Rehpenning
Institute for Forest Growth, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
The area covered with agroforestry systems throughout Europe is still minimal compared to other
landuse systems. Considering the high potential of agroforestry systems this is quite surprising. In
additionto the advantages in respect to biodiversity, prevention of soil erosion, soil moisture retention
and aesthetic aspects the potential as a carbon sink is getting increasing attention. If carbon
sequestration could gain some marketable value, the introduction of woody perennials into agricultural
areas could contribute to enhance the benefits of landowners and in a wider scope the society at large
through mitigation of climate change. In this study the potential of a two component alley cropping
system to store carbon has been quantified. The two components are trees producing high valuable
timber and areas with short rotation coppice. The total potential of systems to store carbon can be
divided in the two main parts: in situ (biomass and soil) and ex situ (products). Carbon content of
different tree compartments was modeled integrating single tree based growth models and results of
species specific carbon analyses. The valuable trees with rotation periods of 60 years and long- life
products like veneer build the framework for the system, accompanied by the short rotation coppice
ending in products like woodchips with a shorter lifetime. Carbon storage scenarios showed a longterm average sequestration potential of 11.2 t C*ha-1 for valuable wood production (AFS including 36
future crop trees/ha on an average site).
Recommendations for optimizing the long-term carbon storage capacity of agroforestry systems
including valuable trees production are derived.
Keywords: carbon sequestration; carbon sink; carbon market; mitigation of climate change, valuable
timber production, short rotation coppice
39

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