DefinePK

Research Objective

To evaluate and compare the potential of two dry afforestation techniques (troughs and bunds) in terms of indigenous vegetation growth on barren land in Attock, Pakistan, to maximize rainwater utilization.

Methodology

The study was conducted in Attock, Pakistan, over one year (February 2022-2023). Two dry afforestation techniques, troughs and bunds, were implemented on 300 acres. Three indigenous tree species (Acacia nilotica, Acacia modesta, and Dodonaea viscosa) were selected. Plant growth data, including plant height, number of branches, and number of leaves, were collected from randomly selected 10m radius circular plots (1% sampling intensity) between March 10-20, 2023. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Site Selection in Attock] --> B[Implementation of Troughs and Bunds];
    B --> C[Selection of Indigenous Tree Species];
    C --> D[Plantation of Selected Species];
    D --> E[Data Collection Plant Height, Branches, Leaves];
    E --> F[Statistical Analysis];
    F --> G[Evaluation of Techniques];
    G --> H[Conclusion];                    

Discussion

The study highlights that different dry afforestation techniques have varying impacts on the growth parameters of different indigenous species. Troughs generally showed better results for plant height in Acacia nilotica and Dodonaea viscosa, aligning with their design to provide consistent water supply. Bunds, on the other hand, showed better results for Acacia modesta in terms of plant height and for Dodonaea viscosa and Acacia nilotica in terms of branches and leaves, suggesting their effectiveness in improving soil properties and increasing vegetation cover. The variability in results for different species and parameters indicates the importance of species-specific considerations when implementing dry afforestation techniques.

Key Findings

- For plant height, Dodonaea viscosa and Acacia nilotica performed better on troughs, while Acacia modesta performed better on bunds.
- In terms of the number of leaves, Dodonaea viscosa and Acacia nilotica performed better on bunds, while Acacia modesta performed better on troughs.
- For the number of branches, Dodonaea viscosa and Acacia nilotica performed better on bunds, while Acacia modesta showed better growth on troughs.

Conclusion

Both bunds and troughs are effective dry afforestation techniques for reclaiming barren land in Attock, with their performance varying depending on the tree species. Troughs are beneficial for maximizing plant height in certain species, while bunds contribute to better development of branches and leaves in others. This research provides valuable insights for selecting appropriate dry afforestation techniques to enhance vegetation growth and conserve water in arid and semi-arid regions.

Fact Check

- The research duration was one year, from February 2022 to March 2023. (Confirmed by text)
- Three indigenous species were studied: Acacia nilotica, Acacia modesta, and Dodonaea viscosa. (Confirmed by text)
- The study area was located in Attock, Pakistan, on an area of 300 acres. (Confirmed by text)

Mind Map