Analog Forestry

Analog Forestry is a system which seeks to establish analog ecosystems with architectural structures and ecological functions similar to the original climax or sub climax vegetation. It also seeks to strengthen rural communities, socially as much as economically, through the use of species that provide commercial products.

Analog Forestry is a complex and holistic form of agroforestry that seeks to maintain a functioning tree-dominated ecosystem while providing marketable products that can sustain rural communities, both socially and economically.

A certification system (Forest Garden Products) has been developed to market products derived from analog forestry, which is now recognized by the EU.

Analog Forestry is based on the the following basic principles:

1. Observe and record
2. Understand and Evaluate
3. Know your land
4. Identify levels of yield
5. Map out flow and reservoir systems (existing and potential)
6. Reduce ratio of external energy in production
7. Be guided by landscape and neighbours needs.
8. Follow ecological succession
9. Utilize ecological processes
10. Value Biodiversity
11. Respect Maturity
12. Respond Creatively