Farm forestry has the potential to give a commercial return to landholders for the wood and other products from trees on farms. Trees don't just yield timber for pulp, paper, construction or furniture. Some species can grow bush foods, oils for pharmaceutical or industrial purposes, tannins, new energy sources, wildflowers for the domestic and international market, and firewood. And that's only some of the potential products.
Farm forestry has other benefits, too.
Many land holders are concerned about declining farm productivity, and they are starting to look at the needs of their properties as an integrated whole. By planting trees on their properties, landholders can reduce problems of soil and water degradation, provide shelter from wind and sun for stock and crops, bring back native animals, birds, insects and soil organisms to improve productivity and lower pest burdens. This program is called Farm Forestry Support . The project has been funded by the Commonwealth Government's Natural Heritage Trust under the Farm Forestry Program component. They will identify the risks of each option, and their advantages and disadvantages.