Alternative management regimes of Eucalyptus : policy and sustainability issues of smallholder eucalyptus woodlots in the tropics and sub-tropics

Abstract: A literature review on the alternative management regimes of eucalyptus; policy and sustainability issues of smallholder eucalyptus woodlots in the tropics and sub-tropics was carried out in autumn, 2011. The aim of the study was to review alternatives to the traditional management regimes under which smallholders in these areas produce eucalyptus and policies in Kenya affecting this production. Meta study was used to collect information to assess the differences in understory plant species between eucalyptus species and other commonly used tree species. It was reviled that weeding at establishment, incorporation of rice and beans, N and P fertilization and slash residue management have the potential to increase the mean annual increment of eucalyptus species depending on site and climate conditions. However, understory species diversity was less in these alternative management regimes compared to the traditional practices. The number of understory plant species in the plantations of eucalyptus species was in general higher compared to that in stands of other commonly used plantation tree species. Thus, it cannot be concluded in line with other studies that eucalyptus does in general decrease biodiversity in the under growth as compared to other commonly used plantation tree species in the tropics and subtropics. Policies in Kenya prohibit establishment and production of trees, in particular eucalyptus, in wetlands or nearby water bodies, levy land tax promote co-generation of energy and give a special consideration to indigenous trees. Legislation and policies of different sectors related to trees and forest work to achieve and maintain forest cover of at least 10% of Kenya’s total land area and work against processes and activities that endanger the environment. However, the same legislation may lead to a decrease in tree production and forest cover in Kenya as it limit farmers possibilities to plant and produce trees and in particular eucalyptus. It is argued that this will affect smallholders as small woodlots, in most cases consisting of eucalyptus, serve to cover many of their important needs. In general, it can be concluded that much as these alternative management regimes enhance productivity of eucalyptus woodlots, the challenge for the small-scale farmers is how to manage them sustainably. Therefore, forest policies that take consideration of increasing production of eucalyptus and managing biodiversity with reference to these alternative management regimes should be developed in Kenya