Fertilizer applied for forage is also used by trees. In addition, livestock manure recycles nutrients to trees and forage. Livestock Some forage species tend to be lower in fiber and more digestible when grown in a tree-protected environment. Trees that provide shade or wind protection can have a climate-stabilizing effect to reduce heat stress and windchill of livestock. Protection from trees can cut the direct cold effect by 50 percent or more and reduce wind velocity by as much as 70 percent.
Livestock require less feed energy, so their performance is improved and mortality is reduced.
Environmental and Aesthetic Silvopastures can increase wildlife diversity and improve water quality. The forage protects the soil from water and wind erosion, while adding organic matter to improve soil properties. In contrast to concentrated livestock operations, silvopastoral systems are less likely to raise environmental concerns related to water quality, odors, dust, noise, disease problems and animal treatment. The effect of cattle foot traffic on soil compaction in a silvo-pastoral system. Clason, T.R. 1995.