DefinePK

Research Objective

To explore the potential of Eucalyptus species for agroforestry and energy plantation on problem soils (saline and water-logged).

Methodology

The study was conducted in Mochiwala plantation (normal soil) and Shorkot irrigated forest plantation (saline and water-logged soil) in district Jhang, Pakistan. For agro-forestry potential, successive surveys were conducted with 40 farmers using face-to-face interviews. For energy plantation potential, calorific values of wood samples were determined using an oxygen bomb calorimeter and empirical methods. Thermal properties, ash deformation, and ash fusion temperatures were also examined. The experimental design used was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Study Site Selection: Normal, Saline, Water-logged Soils] --> B[Data Collection];
    B --> C[Farmer Surveys for Agro-forestry Potential];
    B --> D[Wood Sample Collection];
    D --> E[Calorific Value Determination];
    E --> F[Thermal Property Analysis];
    C --> G[Analysis of Agro-forestry Data];
    F --> H[Analysis of Energy Potential Data];
    G --> I[Key Findings & Discussion];
    H --> I;
    I --> J[Conclusion & Recommendations];                    

Discussion

The study highlights the significant economic contribution of agroforestry to farmers, particularly smallholders, through the cultivation of various tree species on farm boundaries. Eucalyptus, in particular, demonstrates potential for both agroforestry and energy production, even on challenging soils like saline and water-logged ones. The calorific values obtained suggest that these problem soils can be effectively utilized for energy plantations with appropriate treatments.

Key Findings

- Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Farash (Tamarix aphylla), Kikar (Vachellia nilotica), and Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) are the dominating species cultivated by farmers for agroforestry.
- 72.5% of respondents cultivate trees on their land boundaries.
- Agro-forestry contributes Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 per annum to farmers in addition to major crops.
- The highest calorific value of Eucalyptus camaldulensis is 4900 K. cal/gm in normal soil, 4909 K. cal/gm in treated saline soil, and 4750 K. cal/gm in treated water-logged soil.
- Treated saline and water-logged soils show strong potential for energy plantations.

Conclusion

Eucalyptus camaldulensis is a viable option for agroforestry and energy plantations on problem soils in Pakistan. Treated saline and water-logged soils are suitable for its cultivation, offering economic benefits to farmers and contributing to energy needs. It is recommended to prioritize these soils for Eucalyptus planting in afforestation programs.

Fact Check

- Calorific Value: Eucalyptus camaldulensis showed a calorific value of 4900 K. cal/gm in normal soil, 4909 K. cal/gm in treated saline soil, and 4750 K. cal/gm in treated water-logged soil.
- Farmer Income from Trees: Farmers reported earning Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 per annum from trees like Eucalyptus, Kikar, Shesham, and Farash.
- Dominant Agroforestry Practice: 72.5% of respondents cultivate trees on their farm boundaries.

Mind Map