Improving Soil Health in Diversified Agroforestry and Silvopasture Systems of NE Washington: Progress Report

This FY23 BIOAg progress report documents early implementation of a project evaluating soil health in diversified agroforestry and silvopasture systems in northeast Washington. The study compares alley-planted agroforestry, composted biosolids applications, and managed grazing systems with business-as-usual forestry practices. In 2023, silvopasture units were established through thinning, fencing, reseeding, and natural regeneration. The agroforestry section was planted with multiple tree species across six management units, though high seedling mortality delayed soil amendment treatments until replanting in 2024. Cover crop mixes were also established on adjacent acreage. A PhD student was recruited to support soil health measurements, and outreach and tribal engagement activities were conducted in partnership with local conservation and Extension entities. Future work will apply soil amendments, introduce forage mixes, and initiate grazing treatments to evaluate soil biological responses and inform regionally relevant soil health practices.