Poster55: Reducing erosion and improving crop water productivity: Quesungual slash and mulch agroforestry system (QSMAS)

This document discusses a study on the Quesungual Slash and Mulch Agroforestry System (QSMAS) used by smallholder farmers in Honduras. The study aims to evaluate how the system impacts soil physical properties, erosion risk, water balance, and crop water productivity over different periods of time compared to traditional slash and burn agriculture. Specifically, the study looks at plots under QSMAS for less than 2 years, 5-7 years, and more than 10 years to understand how the system improves soil water retention, storage, and redistribution over time. The results could help promote this alternative to slash and burn agriculture that provides food security while managing soil, water, and nutrients in a sustainable way.