The role and potential of tree growing on farms in the Barolong district – Botswana

Abstract

In the Barolong District the depletion of the woodland resource, upon which households are dependent for fuelwood, poles, fencing material, livestock forage and protection of cropland soil, is a cause for concern. The expansion of cropland along with an increasing population are the main causes of these resource management problems. In an attempt to seek solutions to these problems the role and potential of tree growing on farms in the District was investigated. The initial investigation of farm management, the importance of trees and their utilisation was carried out through a semi-structured questionnaire developed following the Diagnosis and Design methodology developed by ICRAF. This was modified to suit the Barolong District situation. Additional information was gathered through a Rapid Rural Appraisal workshop which consolidated data collected with the semi-structured questionnaire. The results show that farmers recognise the limitations of the agrosilvopastoral system they have traditionally practised. They see tree planting on farms as the solution both for conservation of cropland soil and for fodder. Other shown interests in tree planting were for higher value commodities such as poles and fruit. In spite of reported shortages, no interest is shown in tree planting for fuelwood. Of significant importance is that local people not only have a wide knowledge of trees but also have evolved a traditional management practice with which the Barolong identify and upon which sustainable agriculture could be built. In the light of these findings the discussion casts doubts on the need to introduce a new policy aiming at sustainable agriculture or whether sustainable agriculture could be founded on the existing traditional practices. The conclusion and recommendations are drawn on the basis of farmer interest and what is possible on-farm. The need for commitment from all parties is stressed for successful implementation of the recommended practices.