Farmers and forest owners in this area have a better understanding of the economic opportunities associated with forest management, which has encouraged them to retain rather and cut their forest, obtain supplemental income to pay taxes on forested land, and many other positive outcomes.
impact statement issue
Cornell has had a vacuum in the field of agroforestry for many years. Although a course in agroforestry was offered, it provided no practical experience. At the same time, forest and other rural landowners were asking for advice about forest farming options for their properties.
impact statement response
Many people have been trained through our agroforestry and forest farming program, which is unique within at least U.S. universities. At the MacDaniels Nut Grove on the Cornell campus we have taught the course Practicum in Forest Farming, giving students much sought after practical experience in mushrooms, medicinal herbs, other food crops, and shade-loving ornamentals. At the Arnot Forest we have had an annual two-day workshop event called Camp Mushroom where more than 100 people have been trained. This includes forest owners, farmers, hobbyists, and a few students.
impact statement summary
Both students and non-students from the region have received training in forest farming that has significant income potential and contributes to sustainable forest management.
