Lessons from two farms in different stages of silvopasture development
Silvopasture — the integration of trees, livestock and perennial forages — has the potential to expand grazing systems, offering a balance of productivity, resilience and ecological health. Managing silvopasture, however, is a long-term endeavor, and seeing the differences between farms at different stages of development can be both inspiring and instructive.
On my farm, along with others that are just beginning to implement silvopasture systems, the early years present challenges. Young trees require protection from livestock pressure, yet they are vital to the system’s future success. Conversely, at New Forest Farm (Mark Shepard’s farm) — a site nearly three decades ahead in its silvopasture journey — the system has reached a stage where thinning the canopy is necessary to maintain the right balance of sunlight and shade. Observing both ends of the spectrum keeps me motivated and patient as I allow my own trees to grow and shape the landscape.
Finding the Balance Between Trees and Grazing
Courtesy of Taylor Henry
A key lesson from New Forest Farm is that grass thrives under light shade. Too much canopy closure, however, can hinder forage growth. There are areas now where we are actively thinning tree stands to ensure pastures remain productive while still offering livestock the essential benefits of shade. A nice bonus from the enterprise is the added firewood and mushroom logs.
On newly established silvopasture sites, the challenge is different. Young trees are fragile and susceptible to damage from livestock. In our system, we run paddock lines along tree plantings to keep sensitive saplings safe from cattle. Austin Unruh from Trees for Graziers has developed protective strategies such as tree tubes reinforced with barbed wire. Another potential method could involve wrapping electric fencing around tree tubes as a deterrent. Our approach has been to forego tree tubes initially and to plant a higher density of trees, allowing natural selection to determine the strongest trees. This spring will be a critical test to see which trees have survived. From there, we will strategically place tubes on those that show the most promise.
The decision to use tree tubes is complex. While they provide crucial protection, they also double costs when applied to every tree. I follow Shepard’s STUN (Strategic Total Utter Neglect) method, which encourages only the strongest trees to survive without extensive human intervention.
The Benefits of Silvopasture for Grazing Systems
Courtesy of Taylor Henry
Regardless of the management approach, one thing is certain: integrating trees into pastures offers numerous benefits for livestock, forage and the land itself.
1. Improved animal welfare and performance. Shade reduces heat stress in livestock, leading to better weight gain and overall well-being. In the winter, trees serve as windbreaks, offering protection from harsh weather conditions. We place evergreens and hazelnuts along east-west lines, providing a break from northerly winds.
2. Enhanced forage production and soil health. Moderate shade fosters a stable microclimate, extending the growing season for cool-season grasses and preventing drought stress. Tree roots improve soil structure, reduce erosion and enhance water infiltration, leading to more productive pastures over time.
In our system, we incorporate a variety of perennial grasses and legumes to maximize forage availability throughout the year. We rely on perennial ryegrass, timothy, orchard grass, fescue and white clover to create a diverse, resilient pasture. The ability to stockpile orchard grass and fescue for later grazing allows us to extend our season, while perennial ryegrass provides lush early- and late-season growth. Additionally, we mix warm-season grasses into native blends; this has been a crucial strategy for maintaining forage availability during droughts.
3. Alternative feed sources. Certain trees, such as honey locust and mulberry, provide additional forage, reducing dependence on grain-based feeds. This not only cuts costs but also diversifies the farm’s feed resources.
4. Financial and environmental sustainability. Silvopasture diversifies income streams by combining livestock production with timber, fruit or nut harvests. Additionally, it enhances carbon sequestration, water quality and biodiversity, making it an environmentally responsible grazing approach.
A Long-Term Investment
Silvopasture is a long-term investment that requires strategic planning and patience. Managing farms at different stages of development reinforces the importance of balancing tree density, protecting young plantings and adapting management techniques over time. Observing New Forest Farm provides a glimpse into the future — one where carefully managed tree cover enhances grazing efficiency and farm resilience. Meanwhile, working with newer silvopasture systems reminds me of the challenges of early establishment and the importance of long-term vision.
For those starting out, success lies in selecting hardy tree species, planning for livestock integration and understanding that silvopasture is a dynamic process — one that evolves with time, just as the trees themselves do. The rewards, however, are undeniable: healthier animals, improved pastures and a more resilient farm ecosystem.
Taylor Henry is the owner and CEO of Acres U.S.A.
