Case Study: Agroforestry in Mali
Geography: AQA GCSE, topic 6.2.8
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.
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.
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.
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.
Test yourself on Case Study: Agroforestry in Mali
What are the 3 components of the sustainable agroforestry system used in Koutiala, Mali?
In Mali, farmers plant trees and nitrogen-fixing plants alongside crops. Which of the following terms describes this technique?
What are the benefits of trees when planted close to crops and nitrogen-fixing plants?