The Aegean to Appalachian Knowledge Exchange (A2A)

The Aegean-to-Appalachian (A2A) is a collaborative project between Livelihoods Knowledge Exchange Network (LiKEN) and DRACoI. It is the first of a series of cross-regional knowledge exchange projects across mountain communities initiated by LiKEN, aiming to catalyze mutual learning and collaborative action on agroforestry practices, which for centuries have strengthened biodiversity, secured local livelihoods, and ensured democratic participation. 

The A2A will bring together community scientists, artisans and local artists, local officials, researchers and experts from the Aegean and the Appalachia, to explore and share knowledge on traditional and innovative agroforestry practices, including stewardship practices of their life-commons –forests, watersheds, and land- upon which ecosystems’ health, local livelihoods and community wellbeing depend. Our shared aim is to co-design evidence-based, adaptive models for regional development based on agroforestry as a proven pathway to an ecologically sound and socially just “green” future for mountain communities. 

In communities worldwide, agroforestry represents a return to economic systems in which forestry and agriculture are integrated. LiKEN’s engagement of the forest farming movement in Central Appalachia has led to partnerships with mountain communities practicing agroforestry in other hemispheres, partnerships that reveal deep similarities among regions that are resource frontiers in a globalizing energy industry. 

Mary Hufford, LiKEN Associatiate Director, Forest Livelihoods Program Director

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