Characterization of coffee agroforestry systems in the buffer zone of the La Amistad biosphere reserve, Pejibaye de Jimenez, Costa Rica
Artículo académicoProfesión de escritor
A biophysical and socioeconomic characterization of the coffee agroforestry systems in Pejibaye de Jiménez, Costa Rica was based on interviews of farmers in 27 farms selected through random stratified sampling. The biophysical evaluation was made in temporary circular plots, with 10 m radius, were used. 14 agroforestry systems were identified, the most representative being coffee associated with: (1) all components (palms, N fixing, timber and Musa spp.); (2) all component except palms; (3) N fixingspecies, timber and Musa spp.; (4) N fixing species, Musa spp. and other components; and (5) N fixing species, timber, palms and Musa spp. 34 weed species, 5 diseases and 1 pest were identified. After the fall in coffee prices in 1997, most farmers reduced management intensity and consequently coffee productivity decreased from 3680 to 920 kg ha-1 year-1. Most farmers (55%) were considering a change from coffee farming to another productive activity if they could identify an economically viable alternative.
