6.2.8

Case Study: Agroforestry in Mali

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Agroforestry in Koutiala, Mali

Mali is a low-income country. An agroforestry program in Koutiala is increasing the sustainability of Mali's food supplies. Part of Mali borders a desert biome and only gets 8 inches of rain each year.

Illustrative background for What is agroforestry?Illustrative background for What is agroforestry? ?? "content

What is agroforestry?

  • Agroforestry involves growing crops and trees together to reduce soil erosion and to increase food yields.
  • The low rainfall and torrential nature of rain in Mali when it does come mean that farmers are using agroforestry to improve yields and the sustainability of their food supplies.
  • Agroforestry has increased maize crop yield in the Koutiala region.
Illustrative background for Nitrogen-fixing plants in agroforestryIllustrative background for Nitrogen-fixing plants in agroforestry ?? "content

Nitrogen-fixing plants in agroforestry

  • In Mali, a nitrogen-fixing plant called 'stylosanthes', improves the nitrogen content of the soil.
  • Plants need nitrogen and nitrates to grow.
Illustrative background for Trees in agroforestryIllustrative background for Trees in agroforestry ?? "content

Trees in agroforestry

  • Gliricidia trees are planted around the crops to bind the soil, reduce soil erosion and give the crops shade from the sun.

Jump to other topics

1The Challenge of Natural Hazards

1.1Natural Hazards

1.2Tectonic Hazards

1.3Weather Hazards

1.4Climate Change

2The Living World

3Physical Landscapes in the UK

3.1The UK Physical Landscape

3.2Coastal Landscapes in the UK

3.3River Landscapes in the UK

3.4Glacial Landscapes in the UK

4Urban Issues & Challenges

5The Changing Economic World

6The Challenge of Resource Management

6.1Resource Management

6.2Food

6.3Water

6.4Energy

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