Perennial Fodder Crops as a Tool for Soil Carbon Management in Agroecosystems

Abstract

Carbon sequestration, typically referred to as carbon storage is defined as the “long-term storage of carbon in plants, soils, geologic formations and the ocean, which occurs both naturally and as a result of anthropogenic activities”. With respect to agricultural sector, carbon sequestration is viewed as the capability of agriculture lands to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Out of the different ways in play, cultivation of fodder crops turns out to be promising due to its high biomass production, root proliferation, mostly perennial nature, suitability for wastelands and most importantly as the feed for livestock. Restoration of degraded lands, adoption of pasture-based agroforestry systems, inclusion of grasses, sowing of improved forage species, grazing management, nutrient and water management are strategies that aid in improving carbon sequestration in fodder production systems. Perennial fodder grasses and fodder legumes such as alfalfa are excellent for carbon storage as they do not require replanting after each harvest which avoids soil disturbances that usually associate with annual crops. Carbon neutral methods of cultivation is greatly hoped to convert agriculture from a source of carbon to a permanent sink of carbon at a faster pace.