Peasants’ Motivations to Maintain Vegetation of Tropical Dry Forests in Traditional Agroforestry Systems from Cuicatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico

Traditional agroforestry systems (TAFS) in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley, Mexico, play a critical role in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience. Peasants maintain wild vegetation in these systems primarily for material benefits such as edible fruits, medicinal plants, fodder, and firewood, which account for 62% of their motivations. These TAFS also provide regulating services like shade, soil fertility, and humidity retention, as well as non-material contributions such as regional flavors and ritual uses. The study found that higher forest cover in these systems correlates with greater species diversity and a broader range of socio-ecological benefits, meeting fundamental human needs for subsistence, identity, and protection. While peasant agriculture supports biodiversity, its potential is hindered by inefficiencies and lack of profitability, necessitating revitalization to ensure environmental sustainability and people’s well-being.

Rendón-Sandoval, F. J., Casas, A., Sinco-Ramos, P. G., García-Frapolli, E., & Moreno-Calles, A. I. (2021). Peasants’ Motivations to Maintain Vegetation of Tropical Dry Forests in Traditional Agroforestry Systems from Cuicatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico. Frontiers in Environmental Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2021.682207