REFORESTATION

In the 1920’s, eucalyptus trees were planted for a source of fire wood and income for the rural farmers in Cameroon.  As often happens in our effort to regulate nature, it soon became evident that the eucalyptus drains the soil of both water and nutrients to such a degree that little other vegetation grows in the surrounding areas.  As the trees spread, using all available water and nutrients, the water table has decreased.  As a result, women are forced to go greater distances to obtain water for family use and to find arable land suitable for growing crops. The water shortage has reached such proportions that many villages are without water during the long dry season. 

One NGO stepped in during the 1990’s to begin a campaign to reduce the number of eucalyptus trees and replant them with friendly indigenous trees.  To date, close to two million environmentally friendly trees that are indigenous to Africa have been planted, but the eucalyptus has spread throughout the countryside, and much work still needs to be done.

Checking new seedlings

Protection of seedling from animals

Planting neew trees

In the past year, CAMSO received a grant for a project of planting drought tolerant trees in the Extreme North Province to stave off the encroachment of the Sahara Desert.  The introduction of these trees will help to decrease wind-borne diseases and work to retain the little moisture there is in the air, while teaching the people the importance of nurturing these young trees.  This project needs to be expanded to more areas in this dry harsh climate.  CAMSO is seeking funding to expand this ongoing project.  This can be accomplished for only $7,500.