Mature existing stands of the endangered Boswellia papyrifera in northern Ethiopia

Background of the project

The endangered Boswellia papyrifera is a flagship tree species that provides several benefits for many Ethiopians. However, results of our first RSG project found that populations of the tree are now in rapid decline; for example, its regeneration and small trees (DBH< 10cm) were totally absent in the study areas. These recruitment failures are mainly due to free grazing and agricultural expansion. Hence, this second RSG project will introduce area enclosure with full participation of all stakeholders for assisting natural regeneration B.papyrifera and restoring its degraded habitat in northern Ethiopia, with the following specific objectives:

 Before introducing area enclosure, provide intensive capacity building training for local stakeholders on roles of area enclosure for restoring degraded habitats

 Will introduce area enclosure with full participation of all stakeholders in the degraded habitat of B. papyrifera

 Analyze scientifically roles of the established area enclosure for natural regeneration of B. papyrifera and its associated trees

 Share results of the project with key stakeholders through training and workshops

Methods to be used

This project will be conducted at Abergelle district, Tigray region, northern Ethiopia where the endangered B.papyrifera tree is found under high risk of extinction due to heavy human pressures. Therefore, introduction of area enclosure to this highly degraded habitat through the second RSG project will be very important. For achieving objectives of the project, different methods will be applied. Before starting the project, we will discuss with all stakeholders about importance of the project in the district. Then, three key informants form local stakeholders will be selected to join as project team members. Following this, we will demarcate an area of 5,000m2 for establishment of area enclosure inside of the degraded habitat of B. papyrifera. The established area enclosure will be continuously managed for seven months. At the end of the months, for analysing its roles for natural regeneration of B. papyrifera and associated trees, data related to seedlings performance will be collected. These collected data will then be scientifically compared with the collected data from non-enclosure area adjacent to the established enclosure. Achievements of the established area enclosure will be transferred through training and workshop to stakeholders for improving their awareness on future use of area enclosure for conservation of the study tree and other species under threats in northern Ethiopia.

Expected outputs

1. Will introduce and establish area enclosure for conservation of the endangered B. papyrifera and degraded habitat in northern Ethiopia

2. The introduced area enclosure will enhance natural regeneration of the endangered B. papyrifera and its associated tree species

3. Will raise awareness of stakeholders, including local community about roles of area enclosure for enhancing regeneration of B. papyrifera

4. Results of the project will be published on articles and e-resources for raising awareness nationally, regionally and globally on roles of area enclosure for conservation of B. papyrifera