Abstract

During the 1930s, the rapid advance of the dunes on the northern coast of Sénégal toward the interior prompted massive planting of filao to stabilize them. This tree, while effective, has a longevity of approximately 50 years and does not regenerate naturally in Sénégal, mainly because a thick accumulation of leaves under the trees does not allow the seeds to reach the ground. This project will allow researchers to study the impact of various silvicultural interventions on the regeneration of old plantations and on the functioning (e.g. nutrient cycling) of their ecosystems.

Specifically, researchers will test the value of effecting artificial regeneration by means of successive cuts, liming, burning, and scarification in mature plantations; identify factors that increase the speed of decomposition of leaf litter in plantations; and carry out a socioeconomic study with a view to sensitizing and involving local populations and governments in a plantation management program. The result will be a management plan to ensure the regeneration of plantations of filao on the northern coast.

Recipient Institution(s)