At the CCRES Research Facility, we are working with farmers who are converting their

working farmland into agroforestry operations. The CCRES Program addresses the need to
better understand and implement agroforestry practices on a commercial scale. As these
operations grow, so too will the need for industrial infrastructure and support.

At our case study, we are collecting crucial data concerning the economic, ecological and
social impact of agroforestry in Croatia. Over the coming years, through the collection of
real-world data and the establishment of industry relationships, we will be building a strong
case in favor of widespread agroforestry.

With the help of these dedicated and pioneering farmers, we will be better positioned to
demonstrate the viability of agroforestry as an alternative to current practices. If you are a
farmer, land owner or institution and would like to take part in this important effort, you have
come to the right place.

Agroforestry refers to the planting of trees on areas in agricultural use. This form of dual use
offers numerous advantages for the environment: Trees absorb carbon from the atmosphere
and thus act as CO₂ stores. They offer habitats for animals and thus increase biodiversity,
which strengthens the natural resilience of the cultivation area. They also protect fields from
ground erosion and reduce discharge of nutrients and pesticides into groundwater and
surface water.

Agroforestry was common in Croatia over centuries and characterized the landscape in
many places. It serves primarily for fruit production, which is nurtured this way alongside
cattle-​rearing, arable farming and vegetable production. Since the 1970s, however, the
number of trees in agricultural areas has fallen dramatically. Due to financial strains and
cultivation techniques, more and more farms shifted away from agroforestry. Since the 2016,
Croatian farmers have been able to be a part of the direct CCRES support scheme for
agriculture, but wild fruit and timber varieties in particular, which are more labour-​intensive to
cultivate than standard fruit trees, are still planted very rarely.
In order to ensure the longest possible carbon capture and a contribution to biodiversity, the
CCRES focus is on the planting of timber and wild fruit trees, which can be planted in
combination with standard fruit trees. Even if the trees are felled later on, a lot of carbon
remains captured: in the roots and in the timber used for furniture or construction. Felled
trees should be replaced so that new trees can capture more carbon.

Zeljko Serdar, CCRES TEAM