Agroforestry is the practice of intentionally utilizing trees as part of a planned production system. In this guide, the focus will be on forest farmed crops and materials collected sustainably . . .

This section provides tips and guidance regarding the handling, storage, and marketing of forest cultivated mushrooms like oyster, maitake, shiitake, and lion’s mane.

Maple syrup and its spin-off products are the most widely recognized special forest products in North America. Unfortunately, high recognition has not translated into the desired level of widespread consumption. Although abundant and pervasive in the Northeast, Great Lakes region, and the eastern provinces of Canada, maple products are somewhat underutilized in the region and across the continent . . .

Whether for a plant-based diet, set out to attract wildlife, or as an important part of old-fashioned recipes, nuts and forest berries have immense potential for marketing and income . . .

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) is one of dozens of forest-derived herbs with purported medicinal qualities. Collecting forest plants for medicines and/or nutrition is one of the oldest uses of forests. Now, forest owners can grow their own medicinal plants, or on a larger scale, supply quantities to herbalists and other buyers. . .

One of the most exciting agroforestry opportunities is in providing plant material for small- and large-scale landscaping projects. Native plant material is now recognized as an important component of landscaping in New York. Native plants provide numerous benefits for property owners, including hardiness, disease resistance, beauty, seasonal flowering, high wildlife value, and adaptiveness to various soil conditions. . .

For years, proponents of agroforestry have speculated on the marketability of various specialty wood products for decoration, cooking, and other crafts. Research about markets suggests that with research and an understanding of buyers’ needs, specialty wood products have market potential. This section provides details about handling and marketing unusual forest products that are used in the home and around the yard. . .

Most people starting an agroforestry enterprise think about selling their products locally, usually on a retail or small wholesale basis. There are likely to be many potential outlets for these unique products in your community. Depending on your location, you might be able to meet your sales goals within 20 miles or so from where you live. . .

Special forest product growers often live in rural communities where distance to key markets plays an important factor in connecting with buyers. Outside your community, your reputation is less well-known, and you will be interacting with buyers that may have other options. Your ability to serve your customer, and to provide consistent quality, becomes even more important when marketing beyond your community. . .

Your special forest products are likely to be unique not only in your community, but also on a statewide, national, or international scale. It is unlikely that your operation will expand to corporate proportions, but there are a variety of ways to market your products across large distances easily. . .