The training sessions were conducted across two locations: The first and third days were hosted at the MSU-Maguindanao Training Center, while the field activity on the second day was held in Brgy. Nalkan, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

On the first day, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of agroforestry, including support technologies for establishing agroforestry systems and principles of soil and water conservation. On the second day, participants visited the project site, where they were warmly welcomed by Brgy. Captain Hon. Maomar Manalao. They were then brought to the highest elevation of the project site to evaluate key factors such as slope (using an A-Frame and Bronton Compass) and conduct vegetation assessments.

On the third day, participants performed a detailed soil analysis to assess soil properties essential for agroforestry development. They also sketched maps overlaying key land assessment categories, including slope, land use, and soil fertility, to determine the land’s suitability for agroforestry. The session focused on Agroforestry Management, where trainers provided insights on sustainable land-use practices, integrating native trees and fruit trees, and ensuring long-term productivity through proper soil and water conservation strategies. Participants collaborated in developing site-specific agroforestry plans, considering factors such as land capability, species selection, and environmental sustainability.

This training program aims to equip agroforestry practitioners with the knowledge and skills to use ALCAMS for effective land assessment and agroforestry development. By strengthening their technical capacity, the program supports the successful implementation of agroforestry systems, contributing to the long-term sustainability and resilience of upland communities.

Participants included MSU-Maguindanao CFES faculty, selected students, faculty from the College of Agriculture and College of Engineering and Computing Studies, as well as forestry faculty from MSU-Buug, MSU-Marawi, and MSU-LNAC and a representative from MENRE.

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The ALCAMS, developed by the University of the Philippines Los Baños-Institute of Agroforestry (UPLB-IAF), is an effective land assessment and planning tool. This user-friendly tool is designed to evaluate a land’s capacity to support agroforestry by assessing three key factors: slope (which indicates the potential for erosion), vegetation (which reflects the current level of production), and soil fertility (which measures the land’s production potential and sustainability). By applying ALCAMS, practitioners gain valuable information on a land’s capability for agroforestry development and receive guidance on suitable agroforestry systems, along with effective soil and water conservation measures to enhance productivity and sustainability.

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