What is farm forestry?

Farm forestry is the growing and use of trees on farms for commercial purposes. Forests grown on farms in combination with crops or used for grazing, is referred to as ‘agroforestry’.

Farm forestry can supply timber to the forest industry from private land. Approximately 70% of Australia’s forests (mostly unproductive woodlands) are under private management, including 26% under private freehold title or managed by indigenous communities, with the remaining 44% under leasehold (BRS, 2008).

Farm forests can provide multiple benefits to farmers making them an attractive long term proposition. Trees can provide shade and shelter for stock, wind-breaks for crops, prevent erosion of soil, help lower the water table to remediate saline soils, can improve water quality, and create habitats for native animals and plants (AFG, 2010). Trees on farms are also attractive and can improve the aesthetic appeal of a property.