MSU Presents: Agroforestry Systems for Conservation & Profit: Online Asynchronous Non-credit Course

Description

Offered by Michigan State University’s Institute of Agricultural Technology
COURSE DESCRIPTION Agroforestry integrates working tree crops and grazing animals to improve conservation outcomes and farm economics. This course equips students to plan and support implementation of the five USDA/NRCS agroforestry practices (Windbreaks (CPS 380), Riparian Forest Buffers (CPS 391), Alley Cropping (CPS 311), Forest Farming (CPS 379), and Silvopasture (CPS 381)), with an emphasis on Michigan and Great Lakes examples (e.g. maple syrup production, woodland non‐timber products). The course emphasizes technical design, silviculture, farm compliance, markets, and community networks, with Michigan funding/program links where available (e.g., CREP/EQIP/CSP).
OUTLINE OF MAJOR TOPICS Global history of Agroforestry practices Introduction to conservation & regenerative agriculture The 5 USDA/NRCS agroforestry practices Windbreaks Riparian Buffers Alley Cropping Forest Farming Silvopasture Agroforestry systems planning, design & technical Service Agroforestry tree crop markets & farm economics
Upon course completion, participants will be able to assist landowners with specialized resources for agroforestry farms, tree crop marketing networks and national agroforestry communities of practice.
Participants can also earn 45 CFE credits through the Society of American Foresters!
DATES: January 12 – April 26, 2026
PRICE: $450
LEARN MORE & REGISTER: https://www.canr.msu.edu/iat/iat-non-credit-courses
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Emily Silver – esilver@msu.edu