Homestead agroforestry research and extension

The Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) will have primary responsibility for project implementation. The project will strengthen MAF"s capacity in agroforestry research and extension by creating four new institutions. First, an Agroforestry Research Cell (ARC) will be established at the Forest Research Institute (FRI). This new unit will compile information on all agroforestry-related research done at FRI and other institutions, and act, in conjunction with BARC, as both a clearinghouse for all agroforestry-related research done in Bangladesh and a depository for agroforestry research done elsewhere. Moreover, ARC will collaborate with BARC and the Planning Commission to lead other MAF research organizations in setting and publicizing a new agenda for agroforestry research in Bangladesh. Second, approximately 16 Homestead Agroforestry Teams (HAT"s) will be formed to conduct homestead trials at Farming Systems Sites (FSS"s) throughout the country; FRI will provide scientific TA to the HAT"s as needed. Third, an Agroforestry Extension Cell will be created within the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) to coordinate agroforestry-related training and extension activities. Fourth, a contract research fund will be established at BARC to encourage new lines of agroforestry-related research. The project will also expand MAF training of persons involved in agroforestry in Bangladesh. Activities will include: (1) international and in-country workshops, conferences, and study tours for mid-level FRI scientists, other MAF officials, and university researchers; (2) a 6-month agroforestry course for FSS, DAE, and Forest Department officials; (3) M.S. and Ph.D. training in agroforestry-related subjects for 10-12 MAF officals, and research associateships for 8-10 officials at the International Centre for Agroforestry Research in Nairobi; (4) technology workshops for both government and nongovernmental personnel (e.g., DAE employees, extension officers, PVO staff, and rural residents); and (5) curriculum development for a homestead agroforestry training module at various technical and academic institutions.