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TOPACTIVITIESIPSI Collaborative ActivitiesBack to Nature Agroforestry Lab
Back to Nature Agroforestry Lab
Lead organization: Back to Nature
Other participating organizations: Kathmandu Forestry College (KAFCOL); Forest Research and Training Center (FRTC); Government of Nepal
Agroforestry in Nepal: “Back to Nature” Initiative
Nepal’s “Back to Nature” initiative has been instrumental in promoting agroforestry practices that harmonize agricultural activities with environmental sustainability. This project focuses on integrating trees, crops, and livestock synergistically to enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and increase agricultural productivity. Activities center around various site locations, including rural farmlands and degraded landscapes that are being restored through agroforestry techniques.
Activities and Site Locations
The initiative encompasses a range of activities such as planting multipurpose trees, developing agroforestry plots, training farmers in sustainable land management practices, and conducting research on native tree species. Key site locations include the mid-hills of Nepal, where pilot projects have shown promising results regarding soil conservation and increased crop yields.
Expected Outcomes
The expected outcomes of the “Back to Nature” initiative include improved soil fertility, enhanced water retention, increased biodiversity, and higher agricultural productivity. By integrating trees into agricultural landscapes, the project aims to create more resilient farming systems that can withstand climate shocks and provide diversified income sources for farmers.
Actors and Task Sharing
The initiative involves a collaborative effort among various actors, including local farmers, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and research institutions. Farmers are responsible for implementing agroforestry practices on their lands, while NGOs provide training and technical support. Government agencies facilitate policy support and funding, and research institutions conduct studies to identify the most effective agroforestry techniques.
Relation to IPSI Strategy and Plan of Action
The “Back to Nature” initiative aligns with the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (IPSI) Strategy and Plan of Action by promoting sustainable land management practices that enhance ecosystem services and biodiversity. It contributes to IPSI’s goals of integrating conservation and sustainable use of natural resources while improving the livelihoods of local communities.
Resource and Funding
The project is funded through private sector partners. Resources are allocated towards training programs, seedlings and saplings, research activities, and infrastructure development to support agroforestry practices.
Monitoring and Reporting
Monitoring and reporting are critical components of the initiative to ensure accountability and measure progress. Regular field assessments are conducted to evaluate the health of agroforestry systems and their impact on soil and crop productivity. Reports are generated to document findings, share best practices, and guide future activities. Continuous feedback loops enable adaptive management, ensuring the initiative remains effective and responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.