Tree species selection for buffer zone agroforestry: the case of Budongo Forest in Uganda

Abstract

SUMMARY This paper highlights the importance of careful selection of tree species for use in buffer zone agroforestry, as a conservation strategy for threatened forest resources. A case study from the Budongo Forest buffer zone in Uganda is used to elaborate the process, where local communities applied a pair-wise ranking system to establish priority tree species and technologies for agroforestry. Maesopsis eminii, Vernonia amygdalina and Lasiodiscus mildbraedii were the top three species selected for integration into the buffer zone farms. Their selection reflects the many good attributes experienced by farmers in the area, such as provision of timber, construction poles, and firewood. The most popular technologies were woodlots, boundary planting and shade trees (multistrata tree planting), in that order of priority. Areas for further research include an evaluation of the economic aspects of the species and technologies, on farm propagation and management protocols and markets for the tree products.