Productivity Of Plantations Research Articles

Study on the relationship between net primary productivity and site quality in Japanese larch plantations in mountainous areas of eastern Liaoning.

Plantation forests enhance carbon storage in terrestrial ecosystems in China. Larix kaempferi (Lamb.) Carrière (Lamb.) (Larix olgensis Henry) is the main species for afforestation in the eastern Liaoning Province. Therefore, it is important to understand the correlation between the site class and carbon sink potential of Larix kaempferi plantations in Liaoning Province for afforestation and carbon sink in this area. The model was fitted using three classical theoretical growth equations: the Richards model, the Korf model, and the Hossfeld model. This study used the forest resource inventory data for management in Liaoning Province in 2011 to build six dynamic height-age models for a Larix kaempferi plantation in Dandong City regardless of base-age. The optimal model derived by the generalized algebraic difference approach (GADA) method was compared with the model derived by the algebraic difference approach (ADA) method. The superiority of GADA was demonstrated by comparison. The Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm was used to fit the model. The statistical and biological characteristics were considered synthetically when comparing the models. The best model was screened out by statistical analysis and graphic analysis. The results show that the differential height-age model derived from Richards equation can well explain the growth process of Larix kaempferi in Dandong City, Liaoning Province under different conditions. The site index model based on Richards equation and derived by GADA was used to calculate the site class of a Larix kaempferi plantation in Dandong City. The net primary productivity (NPP) value from the past ten years was extracted from the MOD17A3HGF data set. Spearman correlation analysis and Kendall correlation analysis were used to show that there is a significant positive correlation between NPP value and site class of Larix kaempferi plantation in Dandong City. Among them, the highest growth occurred in 2016; NPP increased by about 3.914 gC/m2/year for every two increases in height-age grade; the lowest increase in NPP was in 2014; NPP increased by about 2.113 gC/m2/year for every two increases in height-age grade; and for every two increases in height-age grade in the recent ten years, the average NPP value increased by about 2.731 gC/m2/year.

Plasticity of leaf functional traits and growth responses to disturbance among cutting cultivars of Cryptomeria japonica in southern Japan

ABSTRACT Cryptomeria japonica (Thunb. ex L. f.) D. Don is the most major plantation species in Japan, and cultivars have been developed and planted under variable environmental conditions across the country. Productivity of clonal plantations is influenced by the ability of the genotype to acclimate to edaphic- and geographic-scale variation in environmental conditions and disturbance regimes. Because all individuals are genetically identical in a clonal plantation, the trait differences among individuals represent phenotypic plasticity. Here, we investigated how phenotypic plasticity and response to disturbance vary among cutting cultivars of C. japonica. We compared tree height, leaf morphology, nitrogen content, and frequency/intensity of growth-release observed in tree rings after thinning and disturbance among six cutting cultivars in 45-year-old provenance trials in south-western Japan. Nitrogen use efficiency was higher in the site where maximum tree height (H max) was taller, while shoot mass per area (SMA) was larger in the site where H max was shorter. Cultivars that grew well had high leaf nitrogen content (N G) and showed more efficient nitrogen use with high nitrogen-resorption efficiency (NRE). Yabukuguri, an intermediate-growth cultivar, was characterized by large SMA and greater plasticity in SMA and tree height in response to topographical and regional variation, as well as greater intensity of growth-release in tree-ring series indicating growth resilience following disturbance. Our results provide guidelines for selecting cultivars with high acclimation potential and resilience to environmental perturbation, which is important for sustaining plantation forests in uncertain environmental conditions expected by future climate change.

Estimation of changes in carbon sequestration and its economic value with various stand density and rotation age of Pinus massoniana plantations in China

Plantations actively participate in the global carbon cycle and play a significant role in mitigating global climate change. However, the influence of forest management strategies, especially planting density management, on the biomass carbon storage and production value of plantations for ensuring carbon sink benefits is still unclear. In this study, we estimated the carbon sequestration and economic value of Pinus massoniana plantations with various stand densities and rotation ages using a growth model method. The results revealed that with increasing stand age, low-density plantations at 2000 trees·ha−1 (358.80 m3·ha−1), as well as high-density plantations at 4500 trees·ha−1 (359.10 m3·ha−1), exhibited nearly identical standing volumes, which indicated that reduced inter-tree competition intensity favors the growth of larger trees during later stages of development. Furthermore, an increase in planting density led to a decrease in the average carbon sequestration rate, carbon sink, and number of trees during the rapid growth period, indicating that broader spacing between trees is favorable for biomass carbon accumulation. Further, extending the rotation period from 15 to 20 years or 25 years and reducing the optimal planting density from 3000 to 2000 trees·ha−1 increased the overall benefits of combined timber and carbon sink income by 2.14 and 3.13 times, respectively. The results highlighted that optimizing the planting density positively impacts the timber productivity and carbon sink storage of Pinus massoniana plantations and boosts the expected profits of forest managers. Thus, future afforestation initiatives must consider stand age and planting density management to shift from a scale-speed pattern to a quality-benefit design.

Correlaciones, parámetros genéticos y fenotípicos en rasgos cuantitativos y cualitativos de Swietenia macrophylla en Ucayali, Perú

The speed of growth in height of Swietenia macrophylla stands out in terms of resistance to attack by the Hypsipyla grandella borer and the selection of fast-growing families can make commercial plantings viable. The characters height, diameter, number of leaves and stem form of trees from 4 families of S. macrophylla, aged 47.5 months, planted in Ucayali, Peru, were used to investigate the possibility of selecting fast-growing genotypes. The average heritability (h2m) and selective accuracy (Acprog) between families were moderate for total height (Ht: h2m: 0.407; Acprog: 0.638) and commercial height (Hc: h2m: 0.472; Acprog: 0.687), in addition to Hc positively correlating with susceptibility to the drill attack. The stem form showed statistical differences between families and great h2m (0.984) and Acprog (0.921). The genetic (rg) and phenotypic (rf) correlations between traits showed that a selection of individuals with greater heights will generally result in greater growth in diameter, number of leaves and better stem form. The study highlights the importance of selecting families with fast growth in height and straight stems to enable, improve the quality and increase the productivity of commercial plantations with the species.

Conversion of pure Chinese fir plantation to multi-layered mixed plantation increases organic phosphorus accumulation and transformation within soil aggregates

Evaluation of the impacts of environmental factors and microbial communities on soil organic phosphorus (Po) availability is needed to clarify P cycling and regulate plantations productivity. However, the effects on Po accumulation and transformation of converting pure Chinese fir plantation to multi-layered mixed plantation and their regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the impacts of the transformation of pure stand of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata; PP) to mixed plantation with multiple tree species (C. lanceolata, Castanopsis hystrix, and Michelia hedyosperma; MP) on Po accumulation and transformation within topsoil (0–10 cm) aggregates in subtropical China. Our results showed that the soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), and available phosphorus (AP), as well as the carbon‑nitrogen ratio of soil (C/Nsoil) and carbon‑phosphorus ratio of soil (C/Psoil) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) of all aggregates in MP than those in PP. The quantities of soil microbial biomass C, N, P (MBC, MBN, and MBP) in all different aggregates were significantly greater (P < 0.05) in MP than in PP. The phospholipid fatty acid contents related to bacteria, fungi, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and actinomycetes were significantly greater in all aggregate classes (P < 0.05) in MP relative to PP. The activities of all tested C, N, and P hydrolytic enzymes, as well as labile organic P, moderately labile organic P, moderately resistant organic P, and highly resistant organic P contents, were significantly higher of most aggregate size classes in MP. Finally, redundancy analysis (RDA) suggested that Po fractions were primarily affected by the NH4+-N, litterfall biomass (LF), carbon‑nitrogen ratio of litter (C/Nlitter), SOC and fine root biomass (FR). Our findings suggest that converting pure Chinese fir plantations into multi-layered mixed plantations may represent an effective management strategy for promoting organic P accumulation and transformation by regulating soil and microbial properties in degraded soils of Chinese fir plantations.

Menggali Potensi Daerah Dengan Pengembangan Potensi Kesenian Serta Edukasi Wisata Melalui Program KKNT di Desa Carangwulung

Every country has distinctive characteristics that become selling points in terms of economy and infrastructure, including small regions such as districts, sub-districts, villages, and hamlets that need to be developed to be more widely known. These distinctive values, including natural potential, plantation products, micro-businesses, tourism sectors, and arts, are important for regional existence. Carangwulung Village in Wonosalam Sub-district, Jombang Regency, has high natural potential such as durian, salak and coffee. Located in the highlands, the village excels in plantations. The tourism sector stands out with its beautiful environment and friendly people, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Plantation products are processed into high-value products through MSME businesses that prioritize quality. Arts potential, such as Gamelan, Jaranan, and Remo Dance, are also preserved. The community service program focused on the development of arts and tourism in Carangwulung Village, including the "Selepas Senja" art performance and tourism. The research used a qualitative descriptive methodology, collecting data through observation, interviews and FGDs. The findings show the importance of preserving and promoting local coffee culture and traditional arts to attract tourists. The eco-tour involved 10 UPN "Veteran" East Java students and the local community.

Monographs on invasive plants in Europe N°8: Cortaderia selloana (Schult. & Schult. f.) Asch. & Graebn

ABSTRACT Cortaderia selloana (Schult. & Schult. f.) Asch. & Graebn. (Pampas grass) is a perennial grass native to temperate and subtropical regions of South America. The species was introduced to western Europe for ornamental purposes during the nineteenth century, where it has become naturalized in anthropogenic and natural habitats, especially in sandy, open, and disturbed areas. Female plants of C. selloana produce thousands of seeds that are dispersed over long distances by wind and germinate readily. Its invasive success is also attributed to its ability to adapt and tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, such as high salinity levels, long droughts, and soil chemical pollution. Cortaderia selloana usually invades human-disturbed habitats where it encounters little competition with other plants and high resource availability. However, the species can invade natural habitats, especially those with high light availability, causing biodiversity loss and changes in ecosystem functioning (e.g. alteration of succession and nutrient dynamics). The species may cause negative socio-economic impacts by reducing productivity of tree plantations, causing respiratory allergies, and decreasing the recreational value of invaded areas. Control costs are high due to the extensive root system that C. selloana develops and the high resprouting ability following physical damage. Although herbicides are effective control measures, their use is not allowed or is undesirable in all situations where the plant occurs (e.g. near riverbanks, natural protected sites). No biological control agents have been released on C. selloana to date, but the planthopper Sacchasydne subandina and the gall midge Spanolepis selloanae are promising targets.

Form factors and volume models for Falcataria moluccana in smallholder plantations, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia

ABSTRACT Falcataria moluccana (sengon) is grown extensively for timber production in smallholder plantations in Indonesia. However, stem form and volume information necessary for its sustainable forest management, yield estimation and carbon assessment are largely unavailable. Therefore, this study developed form factor and stem volume models for sengon trees in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. Data were collected using a destructive method from 24 trees across six diameter classes. Two types of form factors, artificial and absolute, were determined, and their relationship with tree growth was established. Four form factor functions were fitted, and the accuracy of volume estimation using a default form factor was compared to the functions. Additionally, 11 stem volume models were developed, and their performance was compared with the commonly used published models. The form factor for sengon was estimated at 0.48, which was higher and more accurate than the absolute form factor. A linear relationship was observed between sengon tree form and growth, particularly with the artificial form factor (R 2 = 0.55–0.62). The Pollanschütz function was identified as the best form factor function, accurately predicting form factors for precise tree volume computations. Using the default form factor of 0.5 led to an overestimation of volume by up to 17%. Among the volume models, the power models with diameter as the sole predictor (MD3: V = 0.00018 * DBH2.3817) and with both diameter and height variables (MDH4: V = 0.000095 * DBH1.9974 * H0.6327) were the most accurate. Importantly, the models developed in this study offer improved accuracy compared to existing models from Java, which tend to overestimate stem volume. Therefore, this study provides suitable models and valuable insights for better valuation and management of smallholder sengon plantations in Central Kalimantan and other areas with similar site and stand conditions.

Pelatihan Pembuatan Nata de Coco di Kampung Sumber Rejeki Distrik Kurik Kabupaten Merauke

Sumber Rejeki Village is one of the areas that produces coconut as a plantation product. Much coconut water from the copra factory in Sumber Rejeki Village is still wasted as waste. Coconut water mainly contains glucose, fat and other nutrients. The presence of these nutritional ingredients can be used as a growth medium for microorganisms, including Acetobacter xylinum. This bacteria uses the ingredients in coconut water to convert it into nata de coco. PKK women in Sumber Rejeki Village do not yet know the steps for making it, therefore they need to be trained on how to make nata de coco. The training method involves: 1) presenting material about nata de coco and how to make nata de coco; 2) Demonstration of making nata de coco; and 3) PKK women make nata de coco guided by the service team. The results of the training showed that 1) PKK women understand the process or how to make nata de coco from coconut water, 2) PKK women can make their own nata de coco from coconut water using simple equipment.

Эколого-биологические методы формирования устойчивых лесомелиоративных комплексов в степных и полупустынных ландшафтах европейской территории России

The arid region of the European territory of Russia includes a zone of dry steppe (dark chestnut soils) and a semi-desert zone (light chestnut and brown soils). There is practically no woody natural vegetation in the region on elevations and plains, and on the prevailing complexes of zonal soils, forest plantations are characterized by low durability. Materials and methods. The work used the results of field (expedition) and laboratory studies of the growth, condition, durability, productivity of protective forest plantations of tree and shrub species in various soil and hydrological conditions of the dry-steppe and semi desert zones. Results and discussion. The author’s developments made it possible to recommend a reliable range of trees and shrubs for the creation of forest-reclamation plantations in each agroforestry area and soil ecological niche. It was revealed that when selecting the assortment, a significant role should be given to selection and genetic methods of using seed and planting material well adapted to local conditions (drought-, salt- and frost-resistant and healthy genotypes). The main reason for the early drying of protective plantations on complex light chestnut soils of the dry-steppe and semi-desert zones has been established. Taking into account the extremely arid conditions and the main causes of their drying, the concept of increasing their stability and effectiveness in adverse growing conditions is given. Agroforestry zoning and groups of soil forest suitability by type and classification, as well as groups of longevity of the main tree species are given. Conclusion. The large diversity of soils contributes to the formation of a stepped profile in adult cereals. Woody species shrink when their root system comes into contact with salt horizons. Ecological techniques are reduced to the correct selection of tree species that correspond to a specific ecological background. The technological use of differentiated agricultural cultivation techniques involves the use of moisture-saving technologies. Biological measures include biological reclamation of unsuitable soils and methods of breeding and genetic improvement of the qualitative composition of forest reclamation plantations. Suggestions for practical applications and directions for future research. The results of the work can be used by managers and specialists of forestry enterprises, researchers, graduate students, students of educational institutions. The assortment of trees and shrubs can be used in the design of plantings of various types on different soils.

A dataset of biomass production of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook) plantation (2007–2020)

Chinese fir plantation is the largest and most abundantly stocked plantation in China. Based on the long-time biomass production observation on the Chinese fir plantation comprehensive observation field at Huitong National Forest Ecosystem Research Station, Hunan (Huitong Station), this dataset collects the annual biomass production of the Chinese fir plantation at Huitong Station from 2007 to 2020, covering dry weight of trunk, branches, leaves, fruits (flowers), bark and aerial roots. In this dataset, biomass is calculated based on field survey data combined with biomass modeling. The field survey was collaboratively carried out in strict accordance with CERN specifications, and the quality control and evaluation of the data was carried out by the station monitors, data managers, and quality control personnel of the sub-centers. The establishment and sharing of this dataset mainly provide data support for the biomass production research of Chinese fir plantation under the background of global change. This is of great significance for deeply understanding the structural and functional characteristics of Chinese fir plantation ecosystem and formulating reasonable management measures for Chinese fir plantation.

A dataset of the sugarcane planting distribution with the spatial resolution of 10 m in Guangxi from 2018 to 2020

The extraction of sugarcane planting distribution is the basis of crop monitoring. The extraction of timely and accurate sugarcane planting distribution is of great significance for monitoring sugarcane crops and making adjustments to the planting structure. Based on Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data, in this paper, we adopted the active and passive remote sensing collaborative method and decision tree classification method to carry out research on the extraction method of sugarcane planting distribution in Guangxi. Then we verified the data by referring to multi-year survey ground sample data. On this basis, we produced dataset of the sugarcane planting distribution with the spatial resolution of 10 m in Guangxi from 2018 to 2020. The remote sensing extraction-based method yielded an overall accuracy of 92% for sugarcane planting distribution in Guangxi in 2018, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.8. The overall accuracy of sugarcane planting distribution in Guangxi in 2019 is 94%, with a Kappa coefficient 0.88; the overall accuracy of sugarcane planting distribution in Guangxi in 2020 is 94%, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.88. This dataset can be used as the basic data for the analysis of temporal and spatial changes of sugarcane in Guangxi. And it can also provide basic data support for the optimization and adjustment of sugarcane production management and planting structure in Guangxi.

Dari Petani Subsisten Ke Ekonomi Pasar

Independent oil palm plantations in the region are extensive compared to other local crop production. Oil palm has become an important plantation product for local communities. Oil palm plantations significantly change the socio-economic and environmental conditions of local communities. Oil palm plantations in the sub-district contribute significantly more to plantation production than other small-scale crops. The purpose of this study was to investigate and analyze the transition of small-scale agriculture to a market economy and to determine the factors driving this change. This research was conducted in Parindu sub-district, considering that oil palm plantations account for 61.33% of the area. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method. Sampling was done using target sampling. Data collection techniques were conducted through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The triangulation technique was used to check the validity of the data. The data analysis method used the Miles and Hubermen analysis model (data reduction, presentation, and review). The informants in this study were independent oil palm farmers. The research found that before the introduction of market-oriented commercial farming systems, the Parindu community practiced subsistence farming, shifting cultivation and rubber plantations, and the results were sufficient to meet the needs of their families. They did not cultivate rubber as their main job, but as a side job in between their work as farmers. The desire to fulfill family needs became a strong foundation for the transformation of the agricultural economy from subsistence farming to the field of product marketing through the market economy. This change affected farmers' lifestyles, which were reflected in their possessions and assets. Property and wealth clearly increase honor and dignity as well as social status.

Application of revitalize liquid biocomplex to increase adaptability of grapes at planting in open ground conditions

At present, the range of modern grape varieties suitable for cultivation in the conditions of the Non-Black Earth zone of the Russian Federation is represented by hybrids of different species origin derived from Vitis berlandieri Planch., Vitis Amurensis Rupr., Vitis riparia Michx., Vitis Labrusca L., which are characterized by low ability to vegetative propagation. Therefore, the development of techniques to improve the technology of accelerated propagation of these varieties, including the technology of clonal micropropagation is currently urgent. However, most studies in the field of in vitro propagation of grapes are devoted to laboratory experiments, but there is little information on the influence of the propagation method on the development indicators and vegetative productivity of grape mother plantations in protected and open ground conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop methods of application of Revitalize liquid to increase the adaptability and stress resistance of ex vitro grape plants during summer transplanting into the open ground to create mother plantations. The research objectives are to reveal the effectiveness of feeding (root, foliar, combined) with Revitalize liquid during summer transplanting ex vitro grape plants of grape varieties Kishmish № 342, Moscow White and Kober 5BB rootstock into the open ground. The obtained results indicate that double combined treatments (root 500 ml: 500 ml H2O + foliar 25 ml:1000 ml H2O) are effective for pre-growing of ex vitro mother plants of Kishmish № 342 and Kober 5BB rootstock in open ground conditions, and double root feeding (at a concentration of 25 ml:1000 ml H2O) with Revitalize liquid is promising for Moscow White variety.

Biomass production and nutritional efficiency in short rotation eucalypt clone plantations for energy in north-east Brazil

Selecting adapted hybrids with greater efficiency in the use and return of nutrients is essential to ensure the success of forestry activities. Although topics on the nutritional sustainability of eucalypt biomass harvesting have frequently been discussed, few studies have focused on short rotation eucalypt clonal plantations (aimed at energy production), especially in conditions of nutrient scarcity and water limitations in Brazil. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate the nutritional efficiency and sustainability (for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K)) of six eucalypt clones in short rotation cultivation in the north-east of Brazil, considering different harvesting scenarios and using the Eucalyptus urophylla species as a reference, which is traditionally planted in the study region. Direct quantification of the biomass of 21 trees of each clone was carried out at 5 years of age. The clones did not affect the accumulation of total biomass (on average, 199.9 Mg ha−1). The 1296 and 1355 clones provided lower biomass export and greater nutritional efficiency, favouring an increase in the potential number of rotations (PNR) for P and a reduction in the N removal rate (RR). However, the VM58 clone showed higher biomass export and lower PNR. Thus, clones 1296 and 1355 are more favourable, while clone VM58 is less favourable to nutritional sustainability under the studied conditions. Nitrogen and K may cause productivity limitations in future rotations in whole-tree harvesting systems. Adopting more conservationist harvesting systems with removing only the stemwood or stemwood with bark can optimise the potential of clones, minimise the need to add fertilisers and ensure maintenance of the site’s productivity.

Assessing the Impact of King Coconut Husk Ash and Biochar, Combined with Chemical Fertilizer Application, on Enhancing Soil Fertility in Coconut Plantations

Sustainable soil fertility management is crucial for enhancing productivity in coconut plantations. This study investigated the synergistic effects of king coconut husk (KCH) ash, biochar, and chemical fertilizers on soil properties in a coconut plantation over a short period (4 months). Six treatments were applied: control, chemical fertilizers alone (F), fertilizers with ash (FA), fertilizers with biochar (FB), fertilizers with both ash and biochar (FAB), and fertilizers with half ash and biochar (FA1/2B). Strongly alkaline KCH ash contained significantly higher total and available potassium content levels than mildly alkaline biochar. Data indicated that KCH ash significantly enhanced soil available potassium, electrical conductivity, and organic carbon content compared to the control and F treatments over a short-term period. Even though biochar application demonstrated initial improvements in soil moisture content, a longer study duration may be required to evaluate its influence on other soil parameters comprehensively. Highlighting the synergistic benefits of KCH ash and biochar, FA1/2B treatment exhibited the highest combined index score based on physical, biological, and chemical soil indicators, suggesting its potential for optimizing agricultural outcomes. It emerged as the most promising approach, underscoring the value of exploring sustainable soil amendments derived from agricultural waste streams to promote soil fertility and sustainable coconut production.

Модель формирования березово-еловых насаждений в условиях южной тайги Русской равнины

The results of 30 years or research on the formation and growth of birch forests from the subcanopy spruce population in the conditions of the Russian Plain southern taiga are presented. The studies have been carried out on 19 permanent sample plots (PSPs). They were laid in regionally representative sorrel-blueberry birch forests aged 15–115 years with high density and productivity. The birch plantations on the PSPs belong to the same natural age series. The majority of spruce trees appeared under the canopy of birch forests up to 40 years old. As the birch trees aged, the age structure of spruce trees changed from even-aged to conditionally even-aged. Based on the study of the dynamics of the number of trees, the vertical structure of stands, the growing stock and the total stem wood stock, the age stages of development of the spruce population in the birch forests up to 120 years old have been determined. They are regeneration, young growth, polewood and maturation. The end of the maturation stage occurs at the birch tree age of 120 years. At the same time, the average spruce tree age in the first and second layers is 90 years. The duration of the stages varies from 10 years (the young growth stage) to 40 years (the regeneration and maturation stages). To determine the time of onset and end of other age stages of the subcanopy spruce population, the studies in birch forests older than 120 years are needed. The work performed has made it possible to propose a model of the joint formation of birch forests and the subcanopy spruce population, in which the main taxation characteristics are given for all elements of the stand: age, number of trees, the sum of the cross-section of the stems, the stock of the growing and dead wood, as well as total productivity. According to the model, by the age of a birch of 120 years, the total productivity of modal plantations will be about 950 m3/ha and the growing stock of the stand will be about 490 m3/ha. The share of spruce wood will be 28 % or about 150 m3/ha. After the birch forest decay, a low-density spruce forest of the 3rd quality class can form in its place.

An economic analysis of bamboo plantations and feedstock delivered cost in the Southern US for the manufacturing of fiber‐based bioproducts

AbstractBamboo, recognized for its rapid growth, high yield, and fiber performance is prominent in the fiber‐based bioproduct industry. However, the absence of US industrial bamboo plantations for fiber production necessitates reliance on imports or locally manufactured products using imported bamboo fibers, predominantly from China. This study evaluates the economic viability of cultivating bamboo in the Southern US for fiber production, with a case study on hygiene tissue products. The supply‐chain analysis was assessed to calculate bamboo chips' minimum selling price (MSP) at the farm gate for an 8% internal rate of return (IRR). The MSP, influenced primarily by land rental costs, ranges from USD 48 to 55 per bone‐dry metric ton (BDt). Despite an initial establishment cost of ~USD 2 000 ha−1 and profitability by year 5, bamboo is a viable, long‐term fiber alternative. Successful bamboo cultivation in the US could lead to a more sustainable implementation of alternative non‐wood fibers for hygiene tissue applications.

Optimizing Cotton Row Configuration in Jujube–Cotton Intercropping Systems Improves Their Productivity, Net Effects, and Sustainability

The bare row spacing between young jujube trees reduces resource use efficiency. Planting cotton between rows of jujubes can improve the efficiency of light, heat, water, and temperature resources. However, it is not clear how many rows of cotton between the jujube rows would be the most suitable pattern. A field study with different cropping systems was performed to investigate the land equivalent ratio (LER), the competition of cotton to jujube, and the sustainability index. The treatments included (1) monoculture jujube, (2) monoculture cotton, (3) jujube intercropped with two rows of cotton (J/C2), (4) jujube intercropped with four rows of cotton (J/C4), and (5) jujube intercropped with six rows of cotton (J/C6). The results showed that the LER under the J/C2, J/C4, and J/C6 systems were 1.17, 1.30, and 1.28, respectively. The LER and total yield were higher under J/C2 than under the J/C4 and J/C6 treatments. The overyielding rate of cotton was increased, while those of jujube were decreased with increasing rows of cotton. The competition between cotton to jujube was less than 0. The net, complementarity, selection effect, and sustainability index were significantly higher under J/C4 and J/C6 than under J/C2, with J/C4, showing stronger net effects. Both complementarity and selection effects contributed to the intercropping yield advantages. Comprehensively considering yield, economic efficiency, sustainability index, land use efficiency, and net effect, J/C4 is one of the most productive and sustainable planting patterns of jujube–cotton intercropping system in southern Xinjiang, which is the more ideal pattern in arid and semi-arid regions.

Analysis of Strategic Programs in Planning and Developing Cattle-Oil Palm Integration System

Abstract The cattle-oil palm integration system refers to a farming approach that involves the integration of the plantation sub-sector and the livestock sub-sector. It can be achieved by utilizing the vacant area beneath oil palm plants to graze beef cattle. The combination of oil palm and cattle production systems has significant social, economic, and ecological standpoints. The program strategy for establishing a cattle-oil palm integration system highlights the importance of institutional involvement in supporting a priority program that has achieved success in multiple areas. The study was conducted in the Tanah Bumbu District in the South Kalimantan Province. The place selection was conducted via purposive sampling, considering its potential as a prototype for combining cattle and oil palm development. This research aims to determine the optimal approach for implementing integrated systems in oil palm plantations of various scales. The research findings on the role of institutions in the integration system of oil palm and cattle are crucial for supporting prioritized programs that have been accomplished in multiple domains. The study employed Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM) analysis to formulate a complex policy structure based on its constituent elements, establish a hierarchy of relationships among these elements, and classify them into four quadrants (autonomous, independent, dependent, and linkage). These include the social functions and the role of institutions in facilitating coordination among different entities. By understanding the significance of institutions, it becomes possible to effectively implement programs to enhance the development of integrated systems of cattle oil palm. The ultimate goal is to bring about positive changes in welfare, participation, trust, communication, and conflict resolution among oil palm smallholders and cattle breeders involved in the cattle-oil palm integration system. In economic function, institutions influence the fluctuations observed in income, production costs, and net profit for individuals engaged in the oil palm-cattle integration system, specifically oil palm smallholders and cattle breeders. Regarding the involvement of the environment, several repercussions arise, including alterations in soil quality, oil palm plantation productivity, biodiversity within ecosystems, greenhouse gas emissions, and deforestation within oil palm plantations engaged in the oil palm-cattle integration system. As a suggestion for achieving sustainability objectives in inclusive and sustainable palm oil plantations, it is advisable to prioritize establishing effective collaboration and partnerships among all relevant stakeholders, sharing expertise and information and the concerted effort to develop robust and mutually beneficial interconnections.