Analysis of Management Problems of Sudanese Natural Forest Reserves

Abstract

This study mainly addressed the problems of management in the Sudanese natural forest reserves, focusing on EL Nour natural forest- Blue Nile State. The study aimed to determine the extent of deterioration in tree cover type and diversity, in addition to the effects of rural communities around the forest. The study also aimed to improve management systems, to be more effective and sustainable, through the use of modern scientific methods of forest management, and integration of rural communities as part of plans and forest management programs.

This study is based on the measurements of both mature tree cover types and their growth variables, in addition to the inventory of natural regeneration of the forest, to know the current status of forest. The study also focused on the social aspects of the problem by designing questionnaire survey for collecting data and information with respect to the management and the exploitation of the forest resource.

The study analyzed the tree composition in the forest and the relationship between diameters and heights, and between basal areas and volumes of trees, and found that there is considerable variation in these relationships, in addition to clear variation in the density of trees in various compartments in the forest. The reason for this discrepancy is attributed to differences in the quality of sites and other human factors, the study also concluded that the reason for the difference and irregularity in the distribution of natural regeneration in the forest is due to mismanagement of the natural forest, as well as to poor protection, the study also concluded that there is no proper plan to meet the local needs of the communities around the forest, this problem has led to a number of illegal practices by the local communities to meet this demands.

The study recommends the preparation of well defined forest management plan that aims to rehabilitate the forest. Through enrichment planning of productive and valuable species and maintain the present tree biodiversity.

The study also recommends strong system of managed relationship between the forest and the communities around their participation in the management and protection of the forest to area sustainability.