Abstract

In Mali, as in other Sahelian countries, there has been a continuous degradation of the balance between man and his environment. Aware of the socioeconomic importance of local ligneous species, which the population uses for various essential products, the government drew up, in 1985, a national plan to control desertification. Within this framework, phase I studied the origin and multiplication of seven indigenous tree species. This second phase will study the artificial regeneration techniques of the Néré and Karité multiple product agroforestry species and that of Véné, an excellent firewood. Specifically, it will develop plantation techniques for these three local species; study their behaviour after planting; perfect simple forestry techniques in the natural formations of these species; study their behaviour after planting; perfect simple forestry techniques in the natural formations of these species; study the ligneous production of Véné; and conduct natural and artificial regeneration tests on farmers' land. The development of these species will augment the income of farmers while improving the villagers' food supply.

Post-Project Summary

A number of planting regimes were studied to determine which one provided the greatest success in terms of improving the chances of survival and the average growth of indigenous seedlings. Five samples of eight Karité trees each were studied to examine correlations between pruning and yields for grain crops located below or beside the trees; and to determine the trees' capacity for regrowth after pruning. Véné's capacity for regrowth after heavy pruning was also examined. Small sample sizes limited findings. The volume and quality of Véné produced per hectare was measured. It was concluded that its main value was as a fuelwood; poor quality negated its use for lumber.

The project did not meet all its objectives. While some technical success was achieved, no clear plan of action was pursued for increasing the land area dedicated to the indigenous trees studied. Emphasis was not placed on the dissemination of results, planting programs, and community education as was planned. The identification of nursery and silvicultural techniques was offset by the research team's failure to disseminate findings to local farmers.

Recipient Institution(s)