Identification of tree species present in silvopastoral dairy production systems of the Villa Los Almácigos municipality, Dominican Republic

Abstract

The study of livestock systems in the Dominican Republic is a necessity to guide livestock farming towards sustainable alternatives such as silvopastoral systems. In this research, it was proposed to identify useful tree species in silvopastoral systems of milk production in the Villa Los Almácigos municipality, Santiago Rodríguez, Dominican Republic, through direct inspection and application of semi-structured interviews to selected livestock producers in the municipality. Dasometric variables: diameter (D_1,30) and total height were measured to characterize the tree species and descriptive statistics were applied to the data. It was evident that the most predominant silvopastoral system was scattered trees, then living fences and riparian forests. A total of 23 species were recorded, some of the main ones identified as multipurpose, including: Gliricide sepium Jacq., Mangifera indica L., Callophyllum calaba L., and Persea Americana Mill. Pinus species patula Schiede former Schltdl. and Cham., recorded the highest D_1,30 with 74.17 cm and commercial height with 0.84 m, key characteristics in a timber species. It is recommended to ranchers in the region to expand and manage the silvipasture Systems in grazing with tree species suitable for each farm and to train ranchers in their locative management. The study contributes to the promotion of dispersed trees of evergreen species on farms, because they provide shade and forage throughout the year, contributing to animal well-being.