Eucalyptus farming in Ethiopia: the case for eucalyptus woodlots in the Amhara region
2003
Amare Getahun (Private Consultant, Nairobi (Kenya))
The history of deforestation and loss of forest cover in Ethiopia has been a concern since the time of Emperors of Kaleb and Minilik II. The introduction and growing of Eucalyptus at that time was meant to supply enough fuel wood and construction wood to the growing population of the country. Eucalyptus growing is largely confined to the highlands, and the Amhara regional state is one of the major producers. Eucalyptus growing by farmers and the private sector of the Amhara region in the recent years has been to generate cash from the sales of eucalyptus poles and fuel wood to urban and peri-urvan markets of the region, Tigrai and Addis Ababa. However, there are controversies over ecological issues on eucalyptus growing, especially on farmlands and near-river banks. The effect could not be solely explained by the fact the eucalyptus is an aggressive water and soil nutrient consumer, but also due to improper management of eucalyptus systems, especially with high planting density and short rotation. This paper presents experiences that may help to manage eucalyptus systems sustainable.
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This bibliographic record has been provided by Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research
