Monitoring Framework for Agroforestry Systems in the Netherlands

Agroforestry systems in the Netherlands vary in design and function, including riparian rows, field margins, scattered trees, buffer strips, and food forests. This factsheet outlines a structured monitoring framework developed by the Agroforestry Network Nederland (ANN) to assess key themes such as carbon sequestration, soil quality, insect populations, water dynamics, labour, and microclimate effects. Based on a 2023 evaluation of food forest monitoring and collaboration with the Louis Bolk Institute, the framework addresses inconsistencies in current monitoring practices—such as variable soil sampling depths and trap methods—highlighting the need for standardised protocols, spatially adapted monitoring designs, and a centralised database. The initiative supports researchers, farmers, and policymakers by promoting data comparability, collaborative research, and policy-informed system design. Recommendations include aligning studies with ongoing projects, documenting site-specific factors like soil type and climate, and sharing findings via the ANN knowledge platform. The framework aims to enhance scalability, inform policy, and strengthen agroforestry’s role across agricultural systems.