Farmers’ preferences key to successful tree-planting

A study exploring smallholder farmers’ choices in afforestation programs in southern India shows the importance of the farmers’ opinions. Dr. Danny Tobin of Duke University emphasized, at a seminar at EfD Uganda, Makerere University, that aligning tree-planting programs with farmers’ preferences enhances the adoption and effectiveness.

The study revealed that smallholder farmers strongly prefer planting trees along farm boundaries rather than within crop fields, citing minimal disruption to food production and farm management. Using a discrete choice experiment surveying 400 farmers near protected areas in Karnataka, the research examined preferences across timber, fruit, mixed-species, and medicinal trees planted in boundary lines, intercropped with crops, or in clustered plots.

Most farmers were willing to adopt boundary planting without financial incentives, while intercropping or clustered plantings often required compensation. Factors influencing adoption included farm size, income, education, irrigation access, and exposure to wildlife conflict. Farmers near protected areas avoided planting fruit trees that attract wildlife, favoring timber species instead.

Policy implications for afforestation programs
The research recommends flexible, farmer-centered approaches over rigid one-size-fits-all programs. Offering multiple planting options allows farmers to select arrangements that suit their land, resources and risk tolerance while contributing to environmental and livelihood goals.

“Successful tree-planting programs must balance environmental objectives with farmers’ economic realities,” Tobin said, highlighting the broader public benefits of private land-use decisions, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.

Center highlights international collaboration
EfD Mak Center Director Edward Bbaale emphasized the value of research aligned with farmers’ needs. He noted longstanding collaborations between the centrer and Duke University, including joint studies on forest plantations’ livelihood impacts.

“The seminar builds on this partnership and addresses a globally relevant question on how tree-planting programs can meet both environmental goals and farmers’ livelihoods,” Edward Bbaale said.

Call for research-private sector dialogues
Deputy Director Dr. Alice Turinawe highlighted the need for stronger engagement between researchers, the private sector, and other stakeholders to translate research into practical solutions. She stressed that environmental interventions must consider both private and public benefits to ensure adoption and sustainability.

Seminar provides practical insights
Participants noted the seminar offered valuable lessons for policy and practice. EfD Mak Centrer Manager Gyaviira Ssewankambo emphasized the relevance of the study for Uganda, particularly in areas where wildlife threatens crop production.

Students and researchers, including Nyeko Francis and Mansur Sewali, highlighted practical takeaways such as integrating tree planting into routine farming, promoting boundary and intercropped planting, and recognizing the societal benefits of afforestation.

Research fellow Aisha Nayeti underscored the importance of incentives, ongoing training, and community sensitization for ensuring tree survival and maximizing environmental benefits.

The seminar showcased how rigorous research can inform sustainable, farmer-centered tree-planting strategies that support both livelihoods and environmental conservation.

By:
Jane Anyango,

Communication Officer