Structure and function of silvopastoral systems at Florina Prefecture

A survey of agroforestry systems was conducted during 2006-2007 at Florina Prefecture and found 20 silvopastoral systems that described with a special work sheet. According to overstory trees, five types of silvopastoral systems were selected (oak, poplar, wilow, almond and walnut systems). The total area covered with these systems were 2,100 ha. Oak systems covered about 90% of the total area and the most of this area was public owned. The area of other systems were private owned. The main characteristics of oak systems were the steep slopes (15-40%), the high tree density, the variety of woody species and the medium range condition. The other systems had low tree density and good range condition. Some of these systems were not grazed affected by various socioeconomic factors and by the change of animal feeding system from extensive to more intansive. The rest of silvopastoral systems are grazed for a period of six months in a year. These systems also, play a significant environmental role because they protect the soil from erosion, ensure an increased biodiversity, regulate the carbon sequestration, and control mountain hydrology. Conservation of silvopastoral systems is necessary for maintaining of good soil condition, increased biodiversity, improved rural landscape, and rural life in mountain areas.