Despite the above-mentioned problems, there is still clear hope for significant
improvement of agroforestry systems in the Chilean espinales. We
base our optimism firstly on the observation that a few model espinal-based
systems do exist, which allow low but stable productivity in non-irrigated
('marginal') sectors of both the semihumid and semiarid regions. Secondly,
we believe that with sufficient research and development, espinal-based
systems can be achieved comparable to the Quercus-based dehesa system in
southern Spain and southern Portugal [Joffre et al. 1988] or various legumetree
based systems in semiarid subtropical regions: Acacia aneura in
Australia-[Pressland 1975]; Faidherbia albida in various parts of Africa
[Kirmse and Norton 1984; Poschen 1986; Centre Technique Forestier Tropical
1988]; Prosopis cineraria in NW India [Mann and Saxena 1980, Mann
and Shankarnarayan 1980]; and Prosopis glandulosa in NW Mexico [Cornejo
et al. 1982]. Clearly, to achieve this goal, much basic and applied
research is needed. The basic lines of this research program have already
been determined and initiated. They include: