FOREST FARMING - MULTIPLE LAND-USE PRODUCTION SYSTEM IN NEW-ZEALAND

Forest farming as practised in New Zealand involves growing widely spaced pruned radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) on pasture to merge livestock farming and exotic forestry into a two-tier production system. Research has shown that to increase tree survival and growth pasture should be sprayed in strips or spots with herbicide prior to planting. Livestock were excluded for 6 months after planting to avoid browsing damage, and then sheep were grazed amongst the trees for limited periods. Trees which were browsed by sheep in the first year recovered quickly provided the sheep were excluded for the remainder of the growing season. Planting large seedlings did not prevent browsing by sheep in the first spring and summer after planting. In the first 3 years after planting grazing returns were obtained of 20, 40 and 80%, respectively, of those achieved from open pasture. Cattle have been successfully grazed amongst radiata pine which was more than 3 years old. Trials have been started for measuring the effects of sawlog crops of radiata pine throughout a rotation on pasture production and livestock performance. Although in its infancy in New Zealand, the concept has been shown to be technically feasible, and on suitable hill-country farms it promises higher financial returns than from pastoral farming alone. Initial interest in the concept came from forest companies, but recently agriculturists have also shown interest in this means of diversifying hill-country farm production. This blending of farming anf forestry offers a more stable rural economy, more aesthetic plantations, and co-operation rather than conflict over best land-use. © 1979.