An Afforestation Programme in the Legeambo Farmers' Producer Cooperative, Harerge Highlands, Ethiopia

Abstract

The Harerge Highlands have been heavily exploited and presently show only remnants of the previous dense forest. Afforestation programmes for provision of fuels and construction wood as an immediate solution to the energy crisis are therefore desperately needed. The Alemaya University of Agriculture, with partial funding from FAO/UNDP, has implemented a project with special emphasis on afforestation, soil conservation, and alternative energy sources. Tree species that can help in soil conservation practices on gullies, steep slopes, and on other poor quality sites were planted. Road side and border row planting are intended to serve as shelter belts for crops, cattle, and people. The follow-up study on survival of the planted seedlings was carried out by the forestry team and showed that about 58 percent of the planted trees survived. Species were Cupressus, Casuarina, Acacia, Grevillea, and Eucalyptus; best survival was found with Cupressus arizonica and Grevillea robusta. The programme, which was implemented with close involvement of the members of the producers' cooperative, resulted in valuable conclusions on management practices and on the new methods applied; an important experience was obtained from the general approach.