The "MoniTree" project introduces a participatory approach to agroforestry research, combining citizen science with action research to co-develop toolkits that help farmers monitor the impact of trees on soil and crops.
Agroforestry is increasingly recognized as a pathway to sustainable agriculture, enhancing soil fertility, biodiversity, water regulation and carbon storage. These benefits are particularly valuable in Mediterranean regions, where poor soils, high temperatures and drought risk threaten agricultural productivity. Trees can mitigate these challenges by creating beneficial microclimates, yet uncertainties remain regarding their exact effects on soil and crops, which often discourages adoption.
"MoniTree" addresses this gap by working with five farmers in dry regions of Portugal to design affordable sensor-based toolkits that track key indicators such as soil moisture, temperature and light. Farmers, supported by researchers from the Dryland Agroforestry Center (DAC) and FiBL, will contribute to the experimental design, ensuring that the toolkit reflects practical needs and site-specific conditions.
Results will be shared in workshops with farmers and scientists, strengthening knowledge exchange and bridging science with practice. The project aims to expand the understanding of tree–crop–soil interactions, empower farmers to make evidence-based decisions, and increase the outreach of FiBL in the Mediterranean. By situating farmers as co-researchers, "MoniTree" generates actionable knowledge, fosters innovation, and supports climate-resilient agroforestry strategies.
Project manager
