Our ARR project Forestal Río Aquidabán in Paraguay (https://lnkd.in/egDY4Tc3) combines forestry with extensive cattle grazing in a silvopastoral agroforestry system. Besides the active reforestation by planting of trees, some areas are excluded from grazing, allowing assisted natural regeneration based on the remaining seed bank, supporting nature in doing the work itself.
This process is called Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR), which is a forest restoration method that helps existing natural seedlings and sprouts grow into a forest by protecting them from disturbances (like fire, grazing, or weeds) instead of planting new trees.
Depending on the condition of the ecosystem, sometimes such simple measures are enough to cause a restoration process.
It’s fascinating to watch: once the pressure on the land is reduced and pioneer species are introduced, seeds still present in the soil have the chance to sprout, and a new generation of forest can start to emerge.
Of course, ANR doesn’t work everywhere – if the natural seed bank is too depleted, planting remains essential. But wherever possible, letting nature take the lead is not only efficient, it’s deeply rewarding. 🌿
Seeing the forest return, life reclaiming its space – that’s the most joyful part of our work!
#AssistedNaturalRegeneration #CarbonRemoval #NatureBasedSolutions #LandRestoration #ClimateAction #NetZero