Adoption and development of integrated crop–livestock–forestry systems in Mato Grosso, Brazil

• We mapped and described integrated crop–livestock–forestry systems in Mato Grosso.
• Farmers may adopt three IS configurations depending on their production strategies.
• Farm size, cultural preferences and know-how are major determinants of IS adoption.
• Credit offered by the government has had limited influence on IS adoption.
• Specialized crop/cattle producers have different perceptions/attitudes towards IS.

By combining crop, livestock and/or forestry activities in the same area, integrated systems (IS) can increase organic matter content in the soil – which favors biomass production and allows for higher livestock stocking rates in pasturelands. The implementation of IS is therefore seen as a promising strategy for sustainable agricultural intensification in Brazil, particularly in Mato Grosso state (MT). However, despite the benefits associated with IS and incentives offered by the federal government to stimulate their dissemination, little is known about these systems or the challenges to implement them, and only a limited number of farmers have adopted IS so far. This paper presents a comprehensive assessment of all IS identified in Mato Grosso by 2012/13, which were mapped and described in terms of their main technical and non-technical features. These findings were combined with farm survey data set to provide a detailed account of the various technologies currently being disseminated, their individual diffusion levels and potential adoption constraints. Results generated through qualitative and quantitative research methods give an overview of IS’ state of the art, reveal farmer perception of such technology and offer insights into the prospects for low-carbon agriculture in the region. The study’s major findings are that IS are present in more than 40 of the 141 municipalities of MT, and the vast majority (89%) involve only crop and livestock. Farmers have adopted three different crop–livestock configurations, depending on their production strategy. Cultural aspects play a major role in farmer decisions to adopt IS, credit provision has not been relevant for IS adoption, and a broader dissemination of IS may occur as land transitions continue.