Cost-benefit analysis of a Gmelina hedgerow improved fallow system in northern Mindanao, the Philippines
Issue Date
1997
Abstract
Traditional shifting cultivation systems in the uplands require a fallow period to rejuvenate soil productivity. Managing fallow areas by planting perennial trees like Gmelina arborea is a possible alternative that can shorten the fallow period due to faster improvement of the soil productivity. This study was conducted to compare the economic and ecological benefits of managing fallow lands by planting Gmelina trees as hedgerows. A combination of research methodologies, including farmer and sawmill operator interviews, secondary data collection and simulation of predicted maize yields using the SCUAF (Soil Changes Under Agroforestry) model, was undertaken. An assessment was made of the productivity of upland farms in Claveria, Philippines, which plant maize for 3 years and fallow the land for two years, compared with upland farms where Gmelina trees were planted as hedgerows during the fallow period. In the latter system, maize was planted along the alley areas between hedgerows in the first two years when the Gmelina trees were still small, and from the third year until harvest (seventh year) the alley areas were under natural vegetation fallow. The natural vegetation is a source of animal feed. Results revealed that the higher economic benefits gained from the Gmelina improved fallow system include revenues from maize yield, fuelwood from Gmelina prunings, Gmelina timber yield and animal related benefits such as draught power and liveweight gain. After two tree cycles, the cumulative net present value of the Gmelina hedgerow system is found to be double that of the maize open field farming system. Farmers also report environmental benefits including cooler air in the farm, more fertile soil due to leaf litter, erosion control, and provision of farm windbreaks.
Source or Periodical Title
Voices from the Forest: Integrating Indigenous Knowledge into Sustainable Upland Farming
Page
444-458
Document Type
Book Chapter
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Magcale-Macandog, D., Rocamora, P. 1997. A cost-benefit analysis of a gmelina hedgerow improved fallow system in Claveria, Northern Mindanao, Philippines . Imperata Project Paper No.1997/4. Canberra, Australia, Centre for Resource and Environmental Studies, Australian National University.
Digital Copy
none