Tena, Ecuador, January 2024
This project aims to reforest degraded areas by planting 7,200 trees. The sustainable agroforestry model implemented will contribute to improving the standard of living of the Kichwas communities, while protecting the adjacent primary forest.
The plantation areas lie in the heart of the Pukaurku and Pukachikta communities of (San Pedro and Moretal sectors), both located in the Misahualli sector. This intervention area is a long way from the city, and the population derives its income mainly from farming activities (selling manioc, bananas, and maize). In this extremely poor agricultural area, socio-economic and environmental issues are a major challenge for Ishpingo, A Tree for You‘s local partner.
The project started at the beginning of 2023 by identifying and creating a group of beneficiaries, drawing up a reforestation plan, and establishing nurseries with collective training during community work (mingas), producing organic fertiliser and preparing seed bags, purchasing and harvesting seeds or seedlings, bagging the seedlings, and maintaining the nurseries. The collective training sessions during these stages of the project went well.
As a result, 4,511 timber trees and 4,679 fruit trees were produced, to total 9,190 trees ready for planting at the homes of 40 beneficiary families.
A total of 13 species of timber were used for reforestation, all of which are endangered and virtually non-existent in the Ishpingo action zone. For fruit trees, 18 endemic and/or introduced but non-invasive species adapted to the work area and the needs of the local population were used.
Prior to planting, between August and December 2023, all the seedlings were distributed equally among the beneficiaries of each of the three nurseries:
- 12 beneficiaries from the Pukachikta-San Pedro community
- 12 beneficiaries from Pukachikta-Moretal
- 16 beneficiaries from the Pukaurku community
The beneficiaries transported the seedlings to their respective farms, either by wheelbarrow and basket (canasta), or with the help of a lorry, depending on the distance of the planting site.
To prepare for planting, the project’s technicians visited each farmer to determine the future planting locations, the planting model, and give advice on how to prepare the land according to the chosen model.
On the day of planting, accompanied by at least one member of the local NGO, the farmers were given practical advice on how to ensure the young trees grew well and keep the mortality rate down.
Between September 2023 and the end of December 2023, all 9,190 trees were planted on the 40 beneficiary farms.
At the start of 2024, we are entering the maintenance and monitoring period for the trees planted. This is vital to ensure they grow and survive well.
Catch up with us in the next article to find out how the planted trees are progressing!
