Analogue Forestry
1. Question?
Why don't Mallee people grow the native Mallee pine which was so valuable to the early settlers? It is white ant resistant, strong, attractive, easy to work with and has endless uses including fence posts, floor and wall boards, cabins, tables, chairs, cupboards and expensive furnishings. It is a highly prized timber and almost impossible to get.
Answer:
Because it is slow growing and farmers cannot wait 20 years for income.
2. Question?
Is there any way we can provide ongoing income for a farmer that wants to grow pine trees and make them useful in the short term?
Answer:
Analogue forestry can make this possible.
3. Question?
What is Analogue Forestry?
Answer:
Analogue Forestry is a farming/forestry system that mimics nature and the natural setting but uses plants from around the world. Analogue forestry aims to maintain the natural balance while providing economic returns to the farmer.
Just as in nature a forest comprises large and small trees, shrubs and ground covers, and original Mallee comprises different ecological systems such as Saltbush, Mallee, Grassland, Woodland and Savanna so will the analogue forest.
Analogue farming is about whole farm planning. It can be applied to a small or large farms, or to a total district or region.
4. Question?
How would it work with Mallee Pine?
Answer:
Every analogue forest will be different according to the needs of the individual, the farm family or the community involved. The following may give you some idea.
The first step is a farm plan. This must not only include the plants, but also the animals and insects likely to be involved as they are all part of the ecology.
Our farmer has sand ridges which once were covered with pine. Replanting with pine may stop erosion and provide windbreaks, but their slow growth means a wait of about 20 years before any results are seen. Analogue forestry can bridge this gap by providing income within two years after planting and ensuring the production can be sustained. A large number of plants can be successfully incorporated that also provide the right mix and balance in the environment. It may be that an analogue for pine is selected. That is another species from elsewhere that has similar needs but perhaps better market opportunity.
Grasslands were a feature of the Mallee so there is still a place for cereals and other annuals adjoining our analogue forest.
We also need some trees and shrubs which are deep rooted and emulate Mallee, yet will provide income in the medium term. Planting's of quandong are a possibility here. Jojoba and Blue Mallee are others. In fact there are large lists of plants from trees to ground covers with potential as part of your individual analogue forest. Herbs are among the possibilities for short term income.
Remember our new water supply will make it possible to get our trees started in the first year.
It is always good to start an Analogue forest by linking it to some natural forest. In some cases the former open channel will be associated with native timber and make a good starting point.
Uncleared roadside vegetation can also provide a starting point.
5. Product:
Analogue forestry adapts the principles of a forest garden to harvest the diverse range of commodities that are produced without disrupting the forest eco system. It uses unique design and harvesting practices that are very different from industrial forestry (clear cutting, agro forestry etc) and promotes a diverse range of products according to the desires of the farmer.
A design that was created for one Mallee farmer is used as an example. He was interested in cut flower production to provide income before the high value timber species came into production. Tables 1 & 2 list just some of the plants used, but are sufficient to illustrate.
Early income may be from herbs, like Echinacea and Wormwood and or cut flowers and foliage. Mid term income may be provided by planting of such things as Geraldton Wax, Protea, Erimophila, Wattles and Eucalypts. Bush tucker fruits such as Quandong and high value timbers such as pine and mulga may not produce income for several years.
TABLE 1 Example of indigenous species and analogue species
Correct product marketing strategy is crucial for the success of the Analogue Forest. Large volumes will not be achieved by many of the products listed in a single Analogue Forest, and cooperative or joint venture marketing with other Analogue Forestry plots, may be necessary.
Specific targeting of markets may be required for some commodities. One such market is organic herbs, native fruits, and vegetables. A concerted effort is necessary to deliver the best quality product with sufficient volume to satisfy the customers whether wholesaler or manufacturer. To achieve the high standard required, world best practice must be maintained to ensure maximum product marketability.
Record keeping of information will be required for source of seed and seedling stock used, growth and harvesting data, types of processing and the storage conditions and duration. Attainment of Organic Grower certification by an approved certifying body such as NASAA or BFA will allow best prices to be achieved for pharmaceutical and culinary herbs, fruits, nuts and vegetables grown.
