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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Forest farming. Towards a solution to problems of world hunger and conservation

Book ·
OSTI ID:6966973

This book, first published in 1976, has been expanded by 37 pages of appendixes and a new introduction. The authors make a case for the use of tree crops not only to supplement field agriculture but also to help preserve and restore lands endangered or already endangered or already degraded by less ecologically balanced methods of cultivation. Only some 10 percent of the world's surface is currently used for food production but crop-yielding trees could increase that figure to 75 percent. This would provide food as well as materials useful for clothing, fuel, and shelter. By integrating tree culture with other types of farming--rather than using it as a form of monoculture--a much sounder ecological balance and far greater productivity could be established. The authors approach the subject in a global context, presenting basic principles as well as specific practices such as cropping methods, selection of suitable trees, and ways of developing marginal lands and other neglected areas.

OSTI ID:
6966973
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English