An Evaluation of the Reforestation Project in Basilisa, Dinagat Island, Surigao del Norte.

Abstract

The study was conducted to (1) describe the physical characteristics of the Basilisa Reforestation Project; and (2) assess the performance of the planted species in terms of survival and early growth. The project's land area was delineated using Global Positioning System (GPS) and its hectarage was computed with the aid of Geographic Information System (GIS). A full (100%) accounting of 5-year old planted species was conducted. The trees were measured in terms of diameter and total height. Soil samples were randomly collected at the site for textural and chemical analyses and soil depth was determined by soil profiling.

Secondary data on rainfall and temperature and published literature on the species' site requirements were gathered from different agencies and sources. Actual site conditions were compared to the seedling's physical requirements to attest to the site's suitability.

About 1,075 trees of mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), mangium (Acacia mangium) and narra (Pterocarpus indicus) were accounted for a survival rate of only 24%. About 88% of the accounted trees were species of mahogany. Mangium had the highest survival rate of 28%. The lack of maintenance, the incidence of fire, and a series of landslides were among the major reasons for the high mortality rate of the planted seedlings.

Mangium had the biggest diameter and highest height among the planted seedlings. Its diameter and total height ranged from 5 cm – 23 cm and 4m – 14 m, respectively. Mahogany had an average diameter of 3.77 cm and an average total height of 2.82 m, while narra had an average diameter 3.71 cm and total height of 3.04 m.

Narra seedlings were intercropped in between rows of mahogany while seedlings of mangium were planted in clusters. Open spaces measured a total of 1,080.12 square meters.

In general, the physical characteristics of the site favored the growth of mahogany, mangium, and narra seedling. However, the soil in the area was inadequate for the optimal growth of the seedlings. Moreover, the project was a failure due to the non-completion of its proposed area and the absence of appropriate silvicultural management practices.