0
0
The field assessments conducted by Rwanda Forestry Authority identified that the dry of forests in Amayaga region caused by various reasons.
Recent incidences of tree Die-back have been identified in different forest plantations in the country.
Such physiological stress has happened in the past and recently heightened occurrence has been observed in this last dry season in Amayaga region (Kamonyi, Ruhango, Nyanza and Gisagara Districts).
Field assessments have been conducted in the affected forest areas to evaluate the possible causes associated with the Die-back of trees in Amayaga region. The assessment showed the occurrence of dieback in the region, and the research did not find significant psychopathological symptoms (pest or disease) associated to it. The physiological stress was attributed to the high prolonged dry period, sandy/ rocky soil properties, and less resilient species planted in the area. Previously similar cases have happened, and the forests recovered when the rain season onset.
Rwanda Forestry Authority recommends, forest owners and farmers to keep best practices of forests/ tree management practices, to plant native tree species that are more resilient and adaptive to the changing climatic conditions, to seek technical advice when selecting tree species to plant in their lands, as site-species selection mismatch may contribute to similar incidences. RFA is continuously carrying out extended studies on the problem for sustainable solutions.
