Continual learning for agroforestry system design: university, NGO and farmer partnership in Minas Gerais, Brazil

This article discusses a long-term participatory process used to develop agroforestry systems in the Zona da Mata, Minas Gerais, Brazil. This area has various characteristics considered appropriate for establishing such systems, which, if well managed, contribute to sustainable land use. In 1993, university researchers, NGO staff and small-scale farmers started to develop agroforestry systems using a participatory process, involving various steps and fine-tuning. In 1994/1995, 39 small experiments were started involving 33 farmers in 11 municipalities. The participatory approach was effective, as almost all the farmers involved continue with their experiments, while others have joined. However, although results in terms of soil conservation are promising, expectations regarding increase in production and reduction of input have not yet been met, causing tensions and forcing adjustments. The benefits and problems encountered during the first 5 years are discussed, in order to highlight the complexity of participatory development of agroforestry systems and the need for their continual development. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.