Assessment of Some Environmental and Socio-economic Factors of Rahad Forest Plantations

Abstract

This study was conducted at the Rahad Agricultural Scheme (RAS) during the period 2003-2006. The main objective of this study was to investigate different environmental aspects and benefits created by forest plantations at the Rahad Scheme , also to evaluate the socio-economic benefits obtained from these forest plantations. For data collection, secondary data was obtained from reports, records, related studies, meetings and discussions with officials, semi-officials, and villagers. Group discussions with farmers to clarify some points were held. A questionnaire was prepared in Arabic language to collect the primary data, the target groups were foresters, researchers, farmers, forest guards and project employees. Crop yield measurements were done from 0H-30H during season 2004-2005 and 2005-2006. The results obtained from this study can be summarize as: Forest plantations at (RAS) satisfy the local needs, they produce sufficient fuel-wood, charcoal, building poles, and fencing materials. The removal of the natural forests to establish the agricultural schemes causes environmental problems that include: The reduction in effective rainfall, wind erosion, increases the amount of evaporation and the appearance of gullies and "khors" drainage chanells . The effect of forest protection (sheltered area) extends to 30H. The environmental and health problems were associated with the uses of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, irrigation and the flux of immigrant population. The study recommended that feather field research should be conducted to investigate the impact of forest plantations on the micro-climate behind forest by using a full set of meteorological equipments connected with a data logger as it has been done in Sweden. Raise the awareness of people about the important role of forest plantations in providing environmental and socio-economic services. To complete the planned area of forest plantations to 5% from the total area of the scheme, so 3% is recommended to be planted. Establishment of a shelterbelt of one row after 30 H by using Cajanus cajan. Adoption of crop distribution in relation to trees would minimize the adverse effect of seed eating birds.