Silvopastoral systems in Patagonia, Argentina

Abstract

This chapter establishes that silvopastoral systems may be an economical, ecological and social productive alternative in Patagonia. The forestry potential for introduced fast growing species in this area and the actual policies that encourage this activity open the possibility for silvopastoral use of many types of planted forests, adding potential surface of these systems to that of some native forests. The challenge of sustainable silvopastoral system development in Patagonia provides the opportunity of an ecologically based approach to land management that can contribute to production diversification and long-term economic sustainability and profitability for farmers and society. It is also important to distinguish between the landowners in the south and the family-based production units in the north of Patagonia where projects for integrated development should prevail.