Indigenous knowledge relating to fodder trees and silvo-pastoral management systems of small-scale farmers in Jamaica

A study of indigenous knowledge relating to fodder trees and silvo-pastoral management systems of small-scale farmers in Jamaica was conducted. The objectives of the study were to (1) explore small farmers' indigenous knowledge relating to fodder trees and silvo-pastoral management systems in a tropical dry climate; (2) conduct a preliminary investigation of the social/cultural environment of the proposed target area; (3) examine pastoral land-use systems and technologies in current use. One fodder tree species (Brosimum alicastrum, Breadnut), valued as an important charcoal source, is on the verge of local extinction. Reasons behind the conflict over this species and possible solutions are discussed. Recommendations for introducing improved silvo-pastoral management systems are presented. These include increasing the production of indigenous fodder tree species, introducing improved tree fodder species, and planting improved pasture grasses at the same time as cash trees.