Role of small-scale trees plantation and farmers' attitude and skill toward propagation of indigenous and exotic trees: The case of Sidama, Ethiopia

The tree land cover in Ethiopia is declining due to deforestation, agricultural land expansion, overgrazing, firewood use and construction. Farm tree plantation has a potential to improve tree cover and the country's vision towards reducing greenhouse gases (GHG) emission by 2030. This study was conducted in Sidama of Ethiopia to assess the role of small-scale tree plantations, and the attitudes and skills of farmers in propagating and conserving indigenous trees as compared to exotic ones, and to identify major impediments for exotic and indigenous tree plantation. By using stratified random sampling, 149 household heads were selected and interviewed, and the tree plantation practices of 46 randomly selected farmers were observed. Advice and support given to farmers concerning tree plantation and nursery care were collected from 16 Woreda Rural Development Experts. During the study a total of 46 tree species were identified, and 92% of the trees on the farmland were exotic. The percentage composition of the five most dominant tree species were Eucalyptus spp. (79.6%), Cupressus spp (8.5%), Cordia africana (4.8%), Grevillea robusta (3.3%), and Millettia ferruginea (1.8%). The trees provide several direct and indirect socio-economic and ecological importance (construction, fuel, income, medicinal value, fencing, asset for present and next generation, fodder for livestock, garden shade, aesthetic, recreation, spiritual value, improve soil fertility and environmental impact remediation). The majority of farmers prefer exotic trees due to their fast growth, ease of nursery preparation and fast establishment, and higher income generation in shorter period. Though farmers like to plant indigenous trees for their ecological services such as improving soil fertility, producing durable household utensils, shading and other ecological values; land shortage and lack of knowledge on plant biology, nursery preparation and propagation method constrained its plantation. Therefore, introduction of appropriate technologies to the existing farming system is required for sustainable indigenous tree plantation in the study area.

NEW INSIGHTS CONCERNING IDENTIFICATION, MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION OF INDIGENOUS TREES AND SHRUBS IN THE NETHERLANDS

In densely populated European countries like the Netherlands, old landscape elements such as ancient woodlands and ancient hedges are today rare. Owing to the introduction of exotic species and indigenous trees and shrubs imported from other climate zones, recognition of truly wild, i.e. autochthonous, individuals and populations is now problematical, posing challenges for forest management agencies, particularly at Natura 2000 sites. The author has developed a method for recognising genetically pure wild woody species, based on characteristics of the plant itself and those of the growing site. With this method, explained here, around 70% of the Netherlands has been surveyed, along with much of Flanders and part of the lower Rhine region of Germany. The results are illustrated with reference to two Dutch ancient woodlands, where new insights were obtained in terms of native status of the woody species and the ‘authenticity’ of the tree and shrub layer.

Agroforestry, Indigenous Tree Cover and Biodiversity Conservation: A Case Study of Mount Elgon in Uganda

Addressing interconnected social and environmental issues, including poverty, food security, climate change, and biodiversity loss, requires integrated solutions. Agroforestry is a sustainable land use approach with the potential to address multiple issues. This study examined the tree cultivation behavior of smallholder farmers in the Mt. Elgon region of Uganda. We examined the proportion of indigenous tree species added to or removed from agricultural land and the reasons for farmers’ decisions in this regard. We found that farmers overwhelmingly planted exotic species, limiting the possible benefits for the conservation of biodiversity from a suggested re-greening of the region. Indigenous trees were cultivated in low numbers and dominated by a handful of species. Opportunities to help farmers increase the number and variety of indigenous trees on their land were found among smaller-scale coffee farmers and in the protection of natural forests from which indigenous trees propagate into the wider landscape.

Seedling performance of different provenances of selected indigenous tree species in Debub Ari District, Southern Ethiopia

Better understanding of variations in seed traits and seedling vigor in various populations of a given species is vital for appropriate nursery and tree planting technology. The main objective of this study was to identify better provenance for indigenous trees by testing seed germination and seedling traits. Seeds of six indigenous trees (Vachellia abyssinica, Vachellia seyal, Faidherbia albida, Balanites aegyptiaca and Terminalia laxiflora Engl.) were collected from different geographic areas. One hundred (100) polyethylene pots (20 cm height and 12 cm diameter) were filled with 2:1:1 ratio of local, forest soil and sand composition for seedlings. A Complete Randomized Design (CRD), 5 x 4 polyethylene pots in four replications of 20 polyethylene pots for each provenance was designed in the nursery and the provenances for selected species. Different early growth performance parameters were measured for each tested provenance. All collected data were analyzed by using ANOVA while the least significance difference was computed for mean separation. The seedling performance of Vachellia abyssinica and Vachellia seyal were significantly varied among the provenances. Vachellia abyssinica from Butajira provenance had the highest mean values across all the studied parameters. Except height, Kako provenance had the highest mean values across all the early performance parameters of Vachellia seyal. Seedling performances of Faidherbia albida in the nursery was significantly varied among the provenances except for root collar diameter. Provenance from Wondo Genet had the highest mean values of germination percent and comparable leaf numbers with provenance from Hawassa. It can be concluded that the observed patterns of variation will have the implication for genetic resources conservations and tree improvement. Accordingly, Butajira and Kako provenances could be taken as a good source of seed collection for Vachellia abyssinica and Vachellia seyal, respectively. Wondo Genet and Hawassa provenances could also ensure the provision of planting materials of Faidherbia albida for farmers. Further progeny tests in the field should be undertaken for a longer period to obtain definitive recommendations for early selection

Using a multi-stakeholder approach to increase value for traditional agroforestry systems: the case of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) in Kilifi, Kenya

The baobab tree (Adansonia digitata L.) is an integral component of many dryland farming systems in sub-Sahara Africa. Such traditional agroforestry systems can foster a variety of benefits; besides positive livelihood implications baobab can particularly address food security objectives due to its highly nutritious fruits. However, many bottlenecks persist inhibiting the broader potential of indigenous trees in farming systems and their increased utilisation and commercialisation. We suggest that traditional farming systems with baobab trees can be advanced by stimulating the emergence of local markets for baobab products while promoting businesses and innovations aimed at meeting the arising market demand. Increasing the perceived value of local agroforestry products in combination with facilitating additional commercialisation pathways will in turn lead to food security and livelihood benefits. Using a multi-stakeholder approach such considerations were put into practice in Kilifi, Kenya, by initiating a community-based enterprise development producing high-quality baobab powder and oil. Initial results demonstrate behavioural changes, an improved practical knowhow with regard to baobab management and utilisation, and an increased consumption of baobab, which may already contribute to food security objectives. Baobab is increasingly seen as a valuable resource as opposed to ‘food for the poor’ and a tree possessed by evil spirits. This may lay the groundwork for further value addition activities and enterprise development in the communities. With baobab being a common, yet so far underutilised feature of local farming systems in Kilifi, activities based on its increasing commercialisation can be complementary and easily integrable to prevailing livelihood strategies.

Preparation of Children on Environmental Conservation in the Rural Area – Turbo Kenya

Most Kenyans are so much concerned in the way forests are destroyed by the get rich quickly Kenyans. The wanton destruction of forests and indigenous trees has left many people wondering as to what is happening with the people especially their leaders. This wanton destruction has had big effects on the country’s environment such as drastic climatic change, which has affected farming greatly. Farming is the main occupation in Kenya that earns the country foreign currency. While this cruel destruction is going no drastic measures have been taken to instil a sense of value and education to the growing and developing children as part of discipline to preserve forests. Therefore, this paper discusses ways and means of preparing children as early as possible. This preparation is meant to help children grow with a high sense of respect towards the environment especially the preservation of forests for the benefit of mankind.

Use of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Crop and Livestock Production and Implication to Social Ecology: A Case Study of Chimanimani District of Zimbabwe

This study explored the indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in the Chimanimani District of Zimbabwe and how they are used in crop management and grain storage. Also examined were the effects of IKS use on community food security and integrity of the environment. A qualitative interpretative research design was employed through the use of detailed in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with traditional leaders and community elders. The choice for these groups of people was informed by the general belief that they are often regarded in the community as a reservoir of indigenous knowledge systems. Phenomenological underpinnings anchored the study because it was vital to bring to the fore the various related IKS phenomena and links to food security and environmental management in the community. A socio-ecological lens was used to establish links and interrelations of factors that contribute to food security and environmental management. Major findings include that ashes and leaves from some indigenous trees are used to enrich soil quality, preserve food, and treat livestock. In addition, ashes and leaves are applied as organic pesticides for a variety of crops grown in the district. The study established that these local knowledge systems and practices contribute to low farming costs, high crop yields and good environmental management. The indigenous trees used for this purpose are held in high regard and conserved through the practice and enforcement of socio-spiritual prohibitions like taboos. The study concluded that the body of local knowledge firmly rooted in the Chimanimani people’s culture and traditions is relevant to and consistent with the national and global agenda towards strengthening and sustaining community food security and environmental management. Furthermore, the local knowledge systems found in this study have policy implications for environmental management and climate change strategies as well as knowledge management from a socio-ecological perspective.Keywords: indigenous knowledge management systems, environmental management, food security

The composition and state of native and introduced woody species in the zone of railway transport influence in the Kola Polar region

The paper analyzes the state and the diversity of native and introduced woody plants used in landscaping railway stations in 5 cities of the Kola Polar region. The species composition is represented by 22 species, 16 genera, and 9 families. Sorbus gorodkovii (39%) is the most common among trees, Rosa rugosa (44%) is the most common among shrubs. The authors have observed two rare introduced woody species (Larix sibirica Ledeb., Syringa josikaea Jacq. fil.) included in Red Data Books of various ranks. 6 categories of plant state have been identified. Betula pubescens has the largest share of healthy plants among indigenous trees species, Malus baccata and Larix sibirica among introduced species, Rosa pimpinellifolia, Caragana arborescens, Crataegus sanguinea among shrubs in the station territories. Sorbus gorodkovii and Padus avium are in a critical state. The agrochemical soil study showed a low availability of nitrogen compounds and a high content of phosphorus and potassium exchange forms. It has been revealed that the main weakening causes are old age of plants, violation of maintenance technology, and failure to comply with environmental conditions.