*Feasibility Study of understory crops begins this summer*
There’s nothing new about cultivating forest plants for food, medicine,
household objects and decoration. What is only a few generations old is
our society's rapid industrialization and light-speed technology that
has distanced so many of us from the land and its lore. Forest products
other than logs seem like a new idea for many. Beginning this summer,
Emily Boss of the Massachusetts Woodlands Institute
<http://www.masswoodlandsinstitute.org> will be conducting a feasibility
study of understory crops. Emily’s study will rediscover some old
traditions and identify new understory crop possibilities that will
enable forest landowners in western Massachusetts to diversify their
economic activities. The types of Understory Crops with potential can be
divided into three categories:
*1. Food Products* (maple syrup and candy, nuts, fruits, mushrooms and
game animals);
*2. Medicinal or Nutraceutical Plants* (Witch Hazel, Ginseng, Black
Cohosh, Goldenseal, Slippery Elm, Black Cherry bark); and
*3. Decorative & Handicraft Products* (wreaths, greens, cones, floral
greens, landscaping plants).
This feasibility study will identify value-added markets for locally
produced understory forest products that will enable members of the
Massachusetts Woodlands Cooperative (MWC)
<http://www.masswoodlands.coop> and members of CISA (Community Involved
in Sustaining Agriculture) <http://www.buylocalfood.com> to expand their
sales and marketing of these products in the future. Marketing and
evaluation expertise within the University of Massachusetts and
elsewhere will provide an overall perspective on the distribution
channels and potential markets for understory crops that can be grown in
western Massachusetts.
If you would like to learn more about - and perhaps participate in - the
Understory Crop feasibility study, please contact Emily Boss at (413)
397-8800 or email emily@masswoodlands.coop
<mailto:emily@masswoodlands.coop> and let her know about your interest.
This project is sponsored by USDA Rural Development.
[permaculture] study of understory crops,
Jill, 05/12/2006