The importance of silvopastoral system in dairy cattle

Abstract

The establishment of silvopastoral systems can be a viable alternative to promote the sustainability of livestock grazing. This system contributes to soil conservation and improvement of its fertility, higher nutritional value of grass, thermal comfort for animals and higher recovery of C air. Furthermore, it provides extra income through marketing of forest products, is relevant for the producer family. For success of this system, the choice of appropriate species is paramount. The forage should be tolerant of shade and trees, arranged in wider spacings, have rapid growth and canopy to provide shade moderate, non-toxic to animals or allelopathic to pasture, with economic potential. Activities of research indicated a greater mineral composition and digestibility of forage and better performance in the silvopastoral system, compared to monoculture of the same species evaluated. Their potential for development is indisputable and recognition has increased in recent years, through research that is showing several benefits. Contributing to several ranchers adopt this system.