An alternative way of evaluating performance is through field surveys
which take place in farmers' fields and are based on measurements, counts
or observations. Examples are surveys of tree survival or post-planting
follow-up surveys to assess planting configurations or tree]crop growth.
Like farmer surveys, these may use either formal or informal sampling
methods. Field evaluations may also be conducted through monitoring of
on-farm or demonstration plots, either through intensive monitoring of a
small number of plots or less intensive monitoring of a larger sample. Plot
monitoring allows assessment of the general level of technology performance
in a specific plot, but generally does not allow for comparisons
relative to other agroforestry or non-agroforestry alternatives.