Pacific Islands FORESTS & AusAID Incorporating SPRIG News, ACIAR Pacific Forestry Update, IBSRAM, QFRI and FSPI News

No.2/99 June 1999 Forest and Genetic Resources Workshop INSIDE The Pacific Sub -Regional Workshop on For- The meeting took place at the Conference est and Tree Genetic Resources was held in Room of the FAO Sub -Regional Office for 2 RAS/97/330 Project News Apia, , from 12 to 16 April 1999. This the Pacific in Apia and field trips were orga- Forestry Dept - Updates meeting was part of a series of workshops nized in Upolu and Savaii islands. The open- 3 Watershed Management Support facilitated by FAO to assist countries and ing address was delivered by the Minister of to 'Etta territories in the preparation of regional ac- Agriculture, Forests, Fisheries and Meteorol- A. Mathias Joins FAO Apia tion plans on forest tree genetic resources, ogy, the Hon. Mafasolia Papu Vaai, who also 4 Assessment of Drum Ovens inFiji following the recommendations of 13th Ses- officially opened the workshop. Buying a Forest for Carbon? sion of the Committee on Forestry (March 6 Invasive Species Database 1997). The meeting, the first of its kind in The international context in forest genetic for Pohnpei , was supported by Heads of Forestry resources and the aims and goals of the work- American -affiliated PIC/Ts Meet of Pacific Island Countries/Territories (PIC/ shop were presented by Mr Pierre Sigaud 7 Fiji Exports Morinda citrifolia Ts). Invitations to the workshop were sent by (FAO Forestry Department, Rome). Forestry Bamboo Workshop in Fiji the Secretariat of the Pacific Community to matters and genetic resources have received 8 SPRIG News 22 PIC/T Heads of Forestry and to interna- increased attention in the past decade. Al- -SPRIG Update tional, regional and bilateral organizations though no truly global mechanism is yet - catappa Linn interested in forest genetic resources, and to available, several regionally -based initiatives -New Project for Screening various resource persons. on forest genetic resources have proved suc- Recalcitrant seeds cessful in framing coordinated strategies and II ACIAR Forestry Update The workshop sponsors and organization in fostering action at national level. Repre- -Soil Nutrient Limitations to committee were the South Pacific Regional sentatives from countries and territories gave Forest Plantations Growth Initiative on Forest Genetic Resources summary accounts of their reports on the 13 QFRI News (SPRIG) and the Australian Agency for Inter- status of forest genetic resources. Participants -Developing Forest Pest national Development (AusAID), the FAO reported the diversity of values and functions Surveillance Systems Forestry Department and FAO Sub-Regional traditionally attached to forests and trees. 14 PACIFICLAND Network Update Office for the Pacific, the Pacific Islands They also stressed that heavy pressures on -A New Millenium, A New Course Forests & Trees Support Programme of the forests and woodlands are leading to an over- 15 FSPI Forestry Focus Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC/ all loss of biological diversity and forest ge- - Using Mangroves to PIF&TSP), the South Pacific Regional Envi- netic resources. In several islands, there is an Save Our Shores ronment Programme (SPREP) and the urgent need for targeted conservation mea- -Reaching the European and Forestry Division, Ministry of Agriculture, sures. In addition to technical considerations, North American Markets Forests, Fisheries and Meteorology, Samoa. addressing land tenure issues and involving Additional support was provided by other local populations were reported as crucial regional and international organizations in- factors in planning sustainable forest man- QUOTE cluding IPGRI, ACIAR and the SPC/Pacific agement. Wide-ranging issues common to German Regional Forestry Project. several countries and territories, and opportu- A man cannot do everything, nities for exchange of experience and know- but that cannot be an excuse The meeting was attended by 60 participants how were identified. for doing bad things. from 18 PIC/Ts and 10 international, regional Thoreau and national organizations and corporations. (Continued on page 5)

RIL & Silviculture Workshop - Part 3

The final phase of the PIF&TSP "Training of atu RIL Guidelines and Silvicultural Prescrip- Trainers Workshop on Reduced Impact Log- tions. Participants saw first hand the rapid and ging (RIL) Guidelines and Silvicultural Pre- prolific regeneration, which had occurred just scriptions" was held from 19-23 April 1999, 15 months after sound harvesting practices, as in Vanuatu. Participants were from Papua taught during the earlier workshops. The New Guinea, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Samoa group measured the impact of harvesting in and Vanuatu and included those who attended terms of removed volume, damage levels to the Phase 1 workshop in PNG in 1998. the residual stand, soil and water, and the amount and species of regeneration. These The Phase III workshop was held in a Train- measurements were analysed, allowing partic- ing and Demonstration Forest on Efate Island, ipants to re -visit the Vanuatu Silvicultural Vanuatu that was established using the Vanu- (Continued on page 2) Participants at the entrance of the Demonstration Forest. Vanuatu June1999 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees

Consultation on COLP Implementation & Directions for the Future Invitations to the consultation, to be held from Meeting. The Vanuatu Ministry of Agricul- An independent assessment of the status of 12-17 July 1999 in Port Vila, Vanuatu, have ture, Forests, Fisheries and Livestock, will the implementation of logging codes in PNG, been issued. 20 Participants from Fiji, PNG, host the meeting and co-sponsors include Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands will be New Caledonia, Samoa, Solomon Islands, PIF&TSP, AusAID, USDA Forest Service, carried out from 29th May to 01 July 1999 Vanuatu and resource persons from govern- FAO, Crawford Fund (Aust.),SPC/Pacific and the results will be presented at the meet- ment agencies, NGOs and private sector in German Regional Forestry Project and Japan ing in Vanuatu. For more information on the Fiji, PNG, Vanuatu, Australia, New Zealand, International Forestry Promotion and Coop- meeting, contact PIF&TSP Coordinator Malaysia and FAO are expected to attend the eraton Centre (JIFPRO). (address at back page).

Agro-forestry Workshop for Atolls

Arrangements for this regional workshop pected to attend. The programme will in- Service/NRCS, Dr. Randy Thaman USP, from 03-16 August 1999, in Majuro, Marshall clude a 4-day component on the construction Suva and Sairusi Bulai of PIF&TSP. Co- Islands on agro-forestry/nursery practices/ and maintenance of wood -fired drum ovens. sponsors will be the PIF&TSP, USDA Forest drum oven are nearing completion. 20 partic- It is anticipated that local women, in addition Service/NRCS and possibly other donors/ ipants from Cook Islands, Tuvalu, Kiribati, to the agroforestry participants, will attend agencies. Invitations to the workshop will be , Tokelau, Palau, French Polynesia, the drum -oven component. Resource per- issuedin early June. For more information, Nauru, FSM and Marshall Islands are ex- sons will be Bob Wescom of USDA Forest contact PIF&TSP Coordinator.

Update of Plantation Forestry in PICs Mr. William Oliver of the USDA Forest Ser- visit plantations in Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon A preliminary report on the update will be vice will carry out an update of forest planta- Is., PNG, Cook Islands, Tonga and Samoa. presented at the regional meeting on COLP tions in Pacific island countries from 12 June Forestry Organsiations in these countries and Directions for the Future in July in Vanu- -17 August 1999. Apart from compiling and will provide in -country support during the atu (see above). This update is co -sponsored analysing questionnaires that were sent out by visits. by PIF&TSP, USDA Forest Services and Au- PIF&TSP to all Project countries, he will aso sAID. Forestry Department Update from the Region - Forestry Programme Man- ject Forester to become Professor of Forestry Fiji - Mr. Ram Swarup, Conservator of ager, Christopher Jones, has taken up the posi- at Southern Cross University, Lismore, Aus- Forests, Fiji has been seconded to the position tion of Forestry Extensionist for the Univer- tralia. Colin Steele is now the Project of Acting Managing Director, Fiji Pine Lim- sity of Arizona. In December 1998, Dr. Forester. ited. Mr. Laiakini Jiko, the Deputy Conserva- Doland Nichols also left his position as Pro- tor, is now Acting Conservator of Forests.

(Continuedfrom page 1) on their techniques for handling landowner Ms. Anna Nenta, Mr. Ben Taupa and Mr. Prescription for that forest type and assess its issues, both at the administrative level and Peter Annable; Solomon Islands Forestry De- effectiveness. Results showed that applica- on the ground at awareness level. This led to partment, and Mr. Gideon Bouro; Vanuatu tion of the RIL guidelines had reduced dam- an extensive group discussion, analysing the Department of Forests, and Mr. Ross An- age to the residual stand by over 50% com- strengths and weaknesses of each method. drewartha. Finally, thankyou to PIFTSP for pared to a control site 'freestyle' logged by initiating and making possible the pro- the same contractors just a year earlier. It was On the final day of the workshop, the partici- gramme. We would like to thank all the obvious that the result of the lower impact pants developed a strategy for future activi- participants in the three phases of the pro- harvesting was rapid and dense regeneration ties at three levels; personal, country specific gramme for their efforts, and will look for- in gaps and along skid trails. During the week and regional. Recommendations were then ward to working with you to implement the the participants looked closely at the purposes developed for presentation at the July COLP knowledge acquired over the years to come. of a Training and Demonstration Forest. workshop to be held for senior level staff Dan Raymond, These included: - (see Project News). This meeting is ex- Workshop Manager, providing a visual example of the results pected to include officials from forest de- Jaakko Poyry Consulting, Canberra,Australia of applying RIL guidelines and silvicul- partments, private sector, NGO's and donor tural prescriptions. organisations, making it an ideal forum for providing an ideal training site for opera- the presentation of the RIL workshop partici- tors and supervisors during development pants' views on future directions for the and post harvesting. sector. allowing testing and refining of RIL Guidelines and Silvicultural Prescrip- We would like to thank the Vanuatu Depart- tions. ment of Forestry and the Vanuatu Sustain- able Forest Utilisation Project for hosting the Participants then developed a brief plan for workshop and the sponsors, AusAID, establishing a similar demonstration area in PIF&TSP and USDA Forest Service (phase their own countries. Group discussions re- 1 only) for their generous support. Without vealed a strong interest in how different coun- the following individuals and organisations, tries dealt with land ownership issues. Each the success of the three-phase program Group carrying out plot measurement exercise country made a brief presentation to the group would not have been possible, PNGFA, and at Forari Demonstration Forest

2 June 1999 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees

An Assessment of Drum Ovens in Fijian Communities The PIF&TSP has, in the past two years been these ovens. The ovens are not being used shell after months of continuous use. In encouraging the use of wood -fired drum regularly. Fuel type: Wood most instances, the villagers attempted ovens. Made from used 44 -gallon drums, Cuvu District School: Built in September to repair the cracks using cement plas- clay, cement mixes and wire mesh, the oven 1998, with PIF&TSP contributing labour ter. This proved successful for the short is a means of promoting more efficient use and supervision and Health for Humanity term, and another assessment will be of wood as fuel for cooking. In 1997 and providing the materials. The school commu- carried out in a few months time to 1998, the PIF&TSP, in collaboration with the nity uses this oven for baking and roasting. determine the longer term effectiveness SPC Community Education Training Centre Fuel type: Coconut shells. of the repairs. and Fiji Department of Energy, conducted Vusana Village: Built in 1998 with the help many of the villagers appreciated the 5 -day workshops for the SPC/CETC students of SPC/CETC students, the oven is used drum oven as it reduced their depen- on the construction and maintenance of drum almost on a daily basis for baking. Fuel dence on cooking gas and they were ovens. The PIF&TSP, SPC/CETC and type: mainly dry sugar cane waste and co- able to do most of their baking using the Health for Humanity (a USA based NGO) conut fronds. drum oven. have also assisted with the construction of the ovens encouraged group cooking. drum ovens at the following places; An assessment was carried out in early 1999 Baking and cooking using the oven is Nayawa Village: Built in August 1997, with on these drum ovens and the findings were, often a community affair and young materials provided by Health for Humanity. cracks started to appear on the outer girls were getting more involved in the This oven is used regularly and had the communal cooking. inner drum replaced in March 1999. Fuel users of the oven commented that non - type: Wood. conventional fuel like dry sugar cane Vunavutu: Built in October 1997, with waste, coconut fronds, could heat up the materials, labour and supervision pro- oven quickly for use. vided by PIF&TSP. This oven is used users also commented that the food regularly for baking and roasting. Fuel cooked in the oven tasted better. type: Coconut husks and mangrove wood. Laselase Village: Built in December In December 1998 and April 1999, 1997, with PIF&TSP providing materials, PIF&TSP and Health for Humanity pro- supervision and labour. The oven is used vided supervision and materials for the at weekends for baking and for roasting construction of a clay -based drum oven in for big village functions. Fuel type: Co- Port Vila, Vanuatu and a coconut fibre -in conut log slabs. cement based drum oven in Apia, Samoa

Bau Island : Two ovens built in July respectively. 1998 with Health for Humanity contribut- ing materials and PIF&TSP providing su- The PIF& TSP is revising the SPC/CETC pervision and labour. One of the ovens is Manual "How to Construct and Repair a located near the Pastor's house for use by Wood Fuel Drum Oven and Box Solar the villagers and the other in the school Mr. Sairusi Bulai of PIF&TSP and Mr. Serupepeli Cooker", which is expected to be pub- compound for use by the school. Co- Nawaqe, local consultant, inspecting a drum oven lished by July 1999. conut fibre mixed with cement was used at Vusana Village, Nadroga, Fiji.. Submitted by instead of clay, for the inner lining of Sairusi Bulai, PIF&TSP. Would You Buy a Forest from a Used Carbon Salesman? Remember 'debt -for -nature' swaps? How ply to get the subsidies. Legitimate con- amount of carbon in the atmosphere rather about the hectare of Peruvian forest worth cerns about equity remain, however, since than simply leading to another forest being more than a small Toyota or Ben and Jerry's big utilities companies in the developed cleared or not being planted somewhere else. 'Rainforest Crunch' ice cream? Paying peo- countries may find it easier and cheaper to Moreover, unlike reducing industrial carbon ple to trees or conserve forests to slow make deals with a few large landholders emissions, most forest projects only delay the global warming makes a little more sense. than thousands of small farmers. release of carbon into the atmosphere, they Even so, a lot of people have unrealistic do not prevent it. For all these reasons and expectations about the long-term possibilities This more sober perspective comes from a more, the authors conclude that carbon mar- that carbon markets offer for conserving recent paper by Joyotee Smith, Kalemani kets will not provide a 'magic solution' to forests. If the Convention on Climate Change Mulongoy, Reidar Persson, and Jeffrey forest problems. They probably have a con- ever manages to put in place a system of Sayer titled 'Harnessing Carbon Markets tribution to make but mostly in contexts international payments to support tree planta- for Tropical Forest Conservation: Towards where they offer a small additional incentive tions, forest conservation and reduced impact A More Realistic Assessment'. The authors to alternatives that are fundamentally eco- logging, the amount of money involved is estimate that the size of the total market for nomically, socially, and environmentally likely to be well below the initial optimistic forest carbon is unlikely to exceed five bil- sound and a broader set of policies exist that estimates. Moreover, it might last for only a lion dollars yearly and could be as low as can sustain these alternatives after the pay- few decades until much cheaper ways of 300 million dollars. Currently, in many ments end. reducing carbon emissions come on-line, cases tropical forests provide the most cost- thanks to new energy technologies. efficient alternative for reducing the amount If you would like to send a comment on this of carbon in the atmosphere but that may message to the authors or request a copy of For much the same reason, opponents of such change in the next few decades as countries the paper you can reach Joyotee Smith at payments have probably exaggerated the po- increase their fuel efficiency and switch to Email: [email protected] tential dangers. As long as the amounts of renewable energy sources, natural gas, and Extracted from a Web Listsery money remain modest, it seems unlikely that hydrogen. Many investors consider it diffi- by David Kaimowitz (CGIAR) companies will plant millions of hectares of cult to show that protecting or planting a fowarded to PIF&TSP by large-scale monoculture tree plantations sim- specific forest actually reduces the total Patrick Durst, FAO Bangkok

3 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees June 1999

Watershed Management Support for , Tonga Technical assistance in watershed manage- the surface stream sources indicate that ment was provided from 13th March to 3rd coliform and fecal coliform is present April 1999 to the Tonga Forestry Section on in varying but significant levels. The Tua, Tonga by geotechnical engineer Mr. primary cause of these are feral pigs Kim Johansen of the USDA Forest Service, travelling in the watershed streams. Corvallis, Oregon, USA. The principal objec- Nitrate and phosphate tests indicated tive of the assistance, co -funded by the that fertilizer and probably pesticides PIF&TSP and the USDA Forest Service, was are entering the watershed from apis to confirm a watershed boundary of Tua's and illegal farms located in the water- public water system. The provisional bound- shed drainage area. Turbidity levels ary was identified by Dr. James McKean-, also are high during rainfall events because of the USDA Forest Service, in a similar of active stream channel erosion and technical assistance scheme provided from 5th some forest soil sheet erosion. Consid- to 18th September 1998. erable sediment washes off unsurfaced roads in the watershed as well. The water source comes from four surface drainages, three of which exit from limestone Although no rainfall and stream flow Rocks will be used to construct a sediment filter caves and one stream. Two of the caves (Ana measurements have been conducted for at the Fern Gully weir. Pekapeka and Matavai) have weirs placed at these streams, it appears that removal their far upper end to protect them from bat of forest cover has had a dramatic effect on Apis and illegal farms will need to be trans- and swallow droppings. The third cave stream flow during dry periods. The water- ferred out of the watershed. A fence will need (Saoa) is temporarily disConnected from the shed areas consist primary of Karst lime to be constructed around part or the entire water system. A weir captures the stream stone topography with varying thickness of watershed to discourage human entry and flow. The water sources are connected by 150 volcaniclastic soil. The Karst joints, tunnels eliminate feral pig and domestic animal entry. mm PVC pipes and drain by gravity to the and caves allow water to drain rapidly from A feral pig -hunting program is being consid- reticulated public water system. the forest into the subterranean passageways. ered. Further water testing should be done to The loss of forest vegetation and organic determine the specific sources of point source Water samples taken from various points in topsoil has lessened the buffering effect of pollution. Plans to clean up or repair these the forest to- areas should be developed and implemented. wards slowing If funding is available, roads within the water- down runoff. shed should be surfaced and drained to reduce erosion. Government ministers visited It is expected that these watershed improve- `Eua on April 7th ments will produce noticeable reductions in 1999 to review chemical, biological and turbidity pollution the watershed within one to two years. The public water boundary area system will be much safer to use and, if future proposed this water treatment is implemented, treatment year. With the costs and complexity should be reduced. adoption of a watershed Submitted by boundary, ex- Kim Johanssen pected by the USDA Forest Service and end of April Tevita Faka 'osi 1999, action can Deputy Director,Foresuy&Conservation Unsurfaced roads and lack of adequate drainage be taken to begin Tonga are potential soources of stream sediment. improvement.

Aru Mathias Joins FAO Apia Mr. Am Mathias .took up the post of FAO technology in the management of forests has mutual understanding and working relation- Sub -regional Forestry Resources Manage- been one of his major interests, particularly ships between the countries and the FAO ment Officer at the FAO -Sub -regional Office the application of GPS, GIS and Remote Sub -regional Office. Mr. Mathias is part of a in Apia, Samoa, on 19th March 1999. Sensing in the planning and management of multidisciplinary team at the FAO Sub - forestry operations. regional Office. Mr. Mathias is a citizen of Vanuatu, and was the former Director of Forests in Vanuatu. In his tenure with the Sub -regional office, he The FAO Sub -regional Office invites coun- He attended the Fiji Forestry Training Centre will focus on two or three major issues tries to contact Mr. Mathias, to discuss any (1984), has a BSc.(Forestry) from the PNG which affect forestry -related development in forestry or other natural resource University of Technology (1987), and a Post the Sub -region e.g. impacts of customary management -related issues. He can be Graduate Diploma in Science from the Aus- land tenure on forestry development; effec- reached on telephone: 685 22-127; Facsim- tralian National University (1993) and re- tive implementation of national forest poli- ile: 685 22-126; and e-mail: cently completed his M.Sc. at the ANU. Be- cies; and strategic planning (taking into [email protected]. fore becoming Director of Forests in Vanuatu, account local, national, regional and interna- Ant was the Principal Forest Utilisation Offi- tional issues and dialogues). Mr. Mathias Submitted by cer, TFAP Co-ordinator, and National Forest will be travelling to the various FAO mem- FAO SAPA Inventory Co-ordinator. The use of modern ber countries in the near future, to strengthen Apia, Samoa

4 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees June 1999

(Continued from page 1) the prospects for a sustainable provision of goods action based on the conclusions of the work- On Tuesday 13 and services through community April, participants from inter- -based, participa- ing groups. The main chapters of the action tory management, were presented. Participants national, regional and bilateral organizations, plan (overview of the current status of forest including Cirad-Foret, CSIRO, FAO, IPGRI, then debated in three working groups about action recommended to promote and biological diversity and genetic resources; SPC/PIF&TSP, SPC/PGRFP, SPC/Plant Pro- implement sustain- able forest management practices for ecosystems identification of opportunities; strategy and tection Service, SPREP, SPRIG and USDA - and priority tree species. Participants recognized guidelines; recommendations on in situ and ex Forest Service, and representatives from the need for a multidisciplinary approach and the situ conservation; sustainable use and man- NGOs and the University of the South Pacific compatibility of conservation (including in situ agement; research needs; capacity building (USP) provided information on the work car- and ex situ techniques) and sustainable utilization. and policy issues; and monitoring of develop- The traditional role of local ried out by their respective agencies in the communities through ments) were adopted in principle. It was customary regulation systems field of forestry and forest genetic resources. in the protection agreed that the detailed elements and conservation of the plan The following session was introduced by an of forest trees was emphasized, although in some cases of action would be completed by SPRIG and overview of the workshop process. Four the- land tenure issues had inhibited centralized conservation efforts. Spe- FAO, in collaboration with rapporteurs, and matic areas were proposed for discussions and cific strategies for the coordination of action on circulated to all participants. incorporation in the regional action plan, viz priority tree species should vary according to the prioritization of species and operational ranking of each species and its geographical cov- The workshop was closed by Mr Malaki needs; ways to support sustainable utilization erage, from regional collaboration projects to na- Iakopo, Assistant Director (Forestry), and management of forest and tree resources; tional or local undertaking. MAFFM, Samoa, and Mr Stephen Midgley, Theme 3: Germplasm exchange and access issues related to germplasm exchange and Programme Manager, CSIRO Forestry and The complexity of the access; and institutional strengthening and issue relating to access and Forest Products, Australia, who expressed exchange of germplasm, both within countries training. Participants were split into three eco- their satisfaction and complimented partici- and among countries, was presented through sev- geographic groups covering Polynesia and eral viewpoints. Forest genetic resources are in- pants for their commitment and achievements. eastern Pacific (American Samoa, Cook Is- cluded in the provisions of the Convention on The meeting was followed by a post - lands, French Polynesia, Niue, Samoa and Biological Diversity and other international workshop field visit to Savaii island where Wallis & Futuna); Melanesia (Fiji, New Cale- agreements. In addition to legal considerations, participants could study the work undertaken donia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands issues concerning the sharing of benefits derived by the Forestry Division and the SPRIG Pro- and Vanuatu) and Micronesia/Central Oceania from the use of genetic resources, quarantine and ject on enrichment planting and field trials plant protection regulations (Guam, Hawaii, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, and invasive species with eucalypts, mahoganies, Toona, and na- were presented and debated. Participants recog- F.S.Micronesia, Nauru, and Palau). tive species (Terminalia, Pometia, Syzigium), nized that free exchange of forest germplasm within and between countries is of vital impor- and visit the facilities used in the Masamasa The a relevance of species approach, sug- tance. The experience of SPRIG, which has devel- nursery for the vegetative propagation of im- gested as an entry point of the action plan, oped an internal Code of Conduct for Access and portant native tree species. was debated and endorsed. It was recognized Transfer of Forest Genetic Materials, and the Conclusions and immediate that such a strategy, based on an utilitarian CGIAR Ethical Principles Relating to Genetic follow-up action approach to priority species and tree popula- Resources, were recommended to be used for the The workshop provided a forum for discus- development of tions, could help focus discussions on opera- regional agreements which sion of key issues related to forest genetic should be based on mutually agreed terms, com- tional needs and requirements. In addition, it resources in the region. The participants rec- patible with national laws. complemented other conservation strategies Theme 4: Institutional strengthening and ognized the need for, and agreed to develop, a based on an ecosystem approach presently training regional action plan for the conservation and being addressed in other fora. A number of collaborative programmes, projects sustainable use of forest and tree genetic re- and initiatives on forestry, forest conservation and sources in the Pacific. A draft will be circu- Theme 1: Identification of priority species forest genetic resources already exist in the Pa- lated to participants by the Organising Com- and activities cific Region. These have proved effective in en- mittee, and the final document will be final- Based on information provided by participants or hancing national strategies and activities. Partici- ized within 1999. The plan will be comple- gathered from country reports prepared beforehand, pants recognized that such efforts should be con- mented by a synthesis of the status of forest 10 top priority native species and 10 high priority tinued and widened. In particular, national and genetic resources in the Pacific islands, based native species were identified by each eco-regional regional capacities should be strengthened by an on data available in country reports. The syn- working group. Priority genera and species con- appropriate balance of university training and sisted of, "hands-on" sharing of technical skills and experi- thesis and the action plan will be disseminated those common to all islands (Cordia subcor- ence. Priority subjects were identified as opportu- to institutions and organizations inside and data, Calophyllum ssp, Intsia bijuga and Ter- nities for training at field and university levels. outside of the region. These publications will minalia spp.); Considering the limited number of research orga- be complemented by the proceedings of the those common to Melanesia and Polynesia nizations involved in forest genetic resources is- workshop, detailing country and territory re- (Diospyros spp., Pometia pinnata, Santalum sues in the region, participants emphasized the ports, and other workshop reports and papers spp and Syzigium spp.); importance of sharing experiences, skills and in- of relevance. those specific to a given sub -region (such as formation through formal networking and linkage Agathis and Araucaria in Melanesia, Thespe- instruments. The participants also recognized the sia populnea in Micronesia, and Morinda need to raise awareness at all levels on the impor- Information on the workshop and its outputs citrifolia in Polynesia). Pinus caribaea and tance of forestry in general, and forest genetic and documentation will be provided to other Swietenia macrophylla were cited as the most resources conservation and management in partic- fora and meetings. It is planned to make infor- important introduced species in Melanesia ular. mation available on-line through the world- and Polynesia. The list will be validated and wide FAO Information System on Forest Ge- complemented, for each species, by a scoring On Thursday 15 April, SPRIG delegates netic Resources (REFORGEN), the SPRIG of technical activities most urgently needed took part in SPRIG's Regional Project Coor- Regional Data Base of Forest Genetic Re- (including exploration and collection of dinating Committee meeting while other par- sources, and the Clearing House Mechanism germplasm, evaluation, improvement, conser- the vation in situ or ex situ). ticipants visited the Uafato Conservation of Convention on Biological Diversity. Theme 2: Sustainable utilization and man- Area, established with the support of SPREP agement offorest and trees; conservation and focusing on the sustainable management Submitted by areas; traditional conservation measures. of ifilele tree, Intsia bijuga, highly valued Pierre Sigaud and Lex Thomson The work of USP and other regional organizations for its wood properties. The last day of the FAO Forestry SPRIG in the assessment of arboreal species diversity, and workshop was devoted to the draft plan of Rome, ITALY ACT, Australia

5 June 1999 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees

Invasive Plant Species Database for Pohnpei As part of a research joint venture agreement cronesia, and poses a real threat to its native tial invasive weeds on the island. Existing with the US Forest Service's Pacific South- ecosystems unless eradicated. However, serious invasive weeds include Wedelia west Research Station, The Nature Conser- while invasive plant species have become (Wedelia trilobata), African Tulip Tree vancy recently completed a field survey and increasingly serious in the Pacific, weed (Spathodea campanulata), Lantana (Lantana created a database of existing invasive plant threats and impacts in most Pacific island camara), Spiny Mimosa (Mimosa invisa), species on Pohnpei Island in the Federated ecosystems, especially in Micronesia, have Pagoda Flower (Clerodendrum paniculatum), States of Micronesia (FSM). Pohnpei Island been poorly documented and evaluated. Palau tree (Clerodendrum quadriculare), has the largest remaining native forests in the Siam Weed (Chromolaena odorata), and FSM, but nearly two-thirds or 10,000 hectares The Pohnpei database is based on two scien- Crape Ginger (Costus speciosus). Potential have been degraded over the last two decades, tific surveys completed on Pohnpei, one by serious invasive species already on island in- mainly due to the commercial cultivation of staff from the National Tropical Botanical clude Octopus Tree (Scheffera actinophylla), sakau (Piper methysticum, kava). This exten- Gardens in 1997, and a 1998 follow-up visit Ivy Gourd (Coccinea grandis), and Chain of sive forest disturbance has raised fears by Jim Space and Marjorie Falanruw of the Love (Antignon lebtobus). Inforination sheets amongst many on Pohnpei that the threat of US Forest Service. Based on these scientists' on each of these weeds have been produced invasive plant species, not a major concern in work, 42 plant species demonstrating inva- and are currently being distributed in the com- the past, could be greatly increased. sive behavior were identified on Pohnpei. munities, to encourage villagers to help stop For each plant species, the database includes the spread of these problem weeds, control, Island ecosystems, because of their isolation (1) identity (scientific and common, names as and if possible, eradicate them from the is- and evolutionary history, are particularly sus- well as photographs), (2) country/area of land. ceptible to invasion by introduced species. origin, (3) period of introduction (if known), Some plant invasions onto Pacific islands are (4) dispersion (known or likely methods of The Nature Conservancy is a private, interna- having profound impacts. Miconia introduction and spread), (5) growth form, tional, non-profit organization established in calvescens, a fast-growing tree native to tropi- (6) plant communities affected, (7) control 1951 to preserve the , animals, and nat- cal America, has virtually overwhelmed na- methods, and (8) methods of eradication (if ural communities that represent the diversity tive ecosystems on the islands of Tahiti and feasible). The database was compiled in Mi- of life on Earth by protecting the lands and Moorea in French Polynesia, and threatens to crosoft Access and efforts are underway to waters they need to survive. To date, the do so in Hawaii. The introduction of alien make it available over the Internet World Conservancy and it's more than 900,000 grasses onto Pacific islands, including Wide Web. The database is also available on members have protected more than 10 million 'Hawaii, has changed fire regimes by increas- zip disk at cost from The Nature Conser- acres in the United States, and have helped ing fuel loads and altering fire frequency, vancy's Pohnpei Field Office, PO Box 216, protect more than 55 million acres in -Latin intensity, and size. This now threatens catas- Kolonia, Pohnpei FSM 96941; telephone: America, the Caribbean, Canada, Asia and the trophic change to forest and woodland com- 691-320-4267; fax: 691-320-7422; e-mail: Pacific. munities, disruption of ecosystem processes, [email protected]. Submitted by and extirpation of some endemic plants and Bill Raynor, animals. One of the world's worst weeds, The Conservancy also worked with the local The Nature Conservancy Imperata cylindrica, has been introduced onto government and the College of Micronesia Pohnpei, the island of Yap, Federated States of Mi- to identify the ten worst existing and poten- Federated States of Micronesia Pacific Island American -Affiliated Territories Meet in Majuro

The Heads of Forestry of the American - Observers included Ms. Sam Sakowski and ment policy toward forest protection and en- affiliated Pacific Islands met as "the Pacific Mr. Terry Sasser of Pacific Mission, a local hancement." Islands Committee" (PIC) of the Council of NGO; and Jim Space, USFS (Ret.) Western State Foresters (CWSF), National Mit Parsons followed with a discussion of the Association of State Foresters, from February The group was welcomed warmly by The major issues facing the PIC members: almost 20-26 1999. The annual meeting was hosted Honorable Tarmille Ishoda, Mayor of Ma- no new, trained professional foresters to re- by PIC Chairman, Mr. Frederick Muller, juro. The meeting was opened by The Hon- place -the current crop which is nearing retire- Chief of Agriculture of the Republic of the orable Justin DeBrum, Acting Minister of ment age; the need for stronger environmen- Marshall Islands. Resources, Development and Works, and tal awareness among citizens of the islands; Minister of Education. Minister DeBrum had lack of basic organic legislation for natural In attendance from the Pacific islands were these wise things to say about island forests: resources management and conservation; a Robert Hobdy of Hawaii, David Limtiaco of shortage of basic operating funds; the need for Guam, Malala Misa of American Samoa, "Forests and trees hold islands together, future help from the USDA/FS after the Com- Kashgar Rengulbai of the Republic of Palau, against storms, erosion, and wind. Where pact Periods end for the Marshall Islands and and Erick Waguk of the Federated States of forests and agroforests are healthy, soil ac- Federated States of Micronesia; and research Micronesia. Absent was Estanislao Vil- cumulates and becomes more productive. needs in the Pacific islands. lagomez of the Commonwealth of the North- Where forests and agroforests are absent or ern Marianas. in decline, soil loses productivity, washes David Limtiaco of Guam presented an into the lagoon during storms and makes the overview of Guam's Geographic Information Present from the U.S. Forest Service were coral sick as well. Most people are careless System, and invited the PIC members to sup- Jack Ewel of the Institute of Pacific Islands offorests and trees, not realizing how much ply their vegetation cover maps to him for Forestry (IPIF); Nancy Lollar and John their lives are enhanced by them in terms of digitizing into forest GIS layers. A motion to Neisess of the Pacific Southwest Region shade for cooling, food and fiber produbtion, take David up on this kind offer was passed. (PSWR); Len Newell of IPIF, Dennis Orbus environmental services such as windbreaks, of PSWR, Mit Parsons of the CWSF, Robert wave protection, soil building, wildlife habi- Sue Willits, who is in charge of Forest Inven- Wescom of USDA/FS/NRCS in Guam, and tat, and natural beauty. It is the responsibil- tory and Analysis (FIA) and Forest Health Sue Willits of the Pacific Northwest Research ity of governments to help their citizens un- Monitoring (FHM) for the Western States and Station. derstand forest values, and to direct govern- (Continued on page 16)

6 Pacific Islands Forests and Trees June 1999

Fijian Businessman Exports Morinda citrifolia Juice The increasing popularity of Morinda cit- ritrifolia) when working as a Marine Kura fruit 3,0001itres of pure Kura juice is rifolia as a health food drink/ herbal Engineer on the ships that used to sail extracted. His production of Kura juice medicine has resulted in an increase in the throughout the South Pacific. We used to has increased from 200 litres per month in number of Pacific islanders producing take the kura as cargo from Tahiti to the 1998 to the current level of 2,500 litres Morinda citrifolia for export. Although United States of America, that gave me per month. Morinda citrifolia is widely used as a the idea. Kura is a plant that grows wild traditional herbal medicine in almost all throughout the Pacific. I saw the poten- In Australia, Kura juice is being sold at a Pacific island societies, only a handful of tial of Kura as an income generator. retail price of about AUD$80 per litre. countries are involved in the commercial When I came home, I started to think of According to David, he cannot keep up production of Morinda citrifolia i.e., the best ways to extract the juice natu- with the increasing demand for Kura juice Tahiti, Cook Islands, Fiji and Tonga. rally." from the markets of USA, Australia and

New Zealand . This looks like a promis- Mr. David Khan, a businessman of Suva, Using his father's premises as a produc- ing cash crop for Pacific island communi- Fiji has been involved in the production tion "lab", David has through a long ties, including those on the atoll island and export of Morinda citrifolia (kura in process of trial and error, fine-tuned pro- countries where Morinda citrifolia grows Fijian) juice for the past nine months. "I duction of the quality and "texture"of the well. But a commercially viable system to realised the potential for Kura (Morinda Kura juice, which he exports to Aus- produce Morinda citrifolia products on tralia, New Zealand and more recently to the small atolls for export, perhaps North America. through intermediate centres in Fiji, needs to be developed. David travels to villages on Vitilevu and Submitted by to the outer islands of Levuka, Koro, David Khan Nairai and Batiki to collect the Kura fruit Kura Exporter for processing. "I talk to the villagers, Caubati and ask for the Kura fruit growing on Fiji their land, I pay them F70 cents a kilo". David grades the fruits and takes them to his "lab", where the fruits go through a pro- duction process to extract the juice. "I travel to my suppliers twice a month and it usually takes me two weeks to collect about seven tonnes of Kura fruits."

After three weeks of pro- cessing, the pure Kura Ripe Kura fruit in a plastic bin juice is ready for export. awaiting processing From seven tonnes of David Khan's Production "labratory" Bamboo Workshop in Fiji The Bamboo Association of Fiji was formed in by the very professional caterers, whose di- During the workshop, he showed himself an 1998 to encourage the use of bamboo in Fiji. rector just happened to be on the board of inspiring and tireless teacher and master of While in Asia, South America and other re- BAF. The conference was organised by the many techniques. gions it finds myriad applications - as much or Association and supported by the UNDP more than wood - it is under-appreciated here Small Enterprise Development Programme The large class was ambitious in the pieces it and the Association seeks to promote its ex- and the PIF&TSP. chose to make and there was much furniture traordinary versatility beside that of its sister, constructed in the lavish Bali style. Some timber. Initial expectation of the participants had elegant trays, baskets, candlestands and precise been estimated at about 25 people, but over domestic artifacts were produced too, but The first workshop and conference on bamboo 60 attended and it was necessary to extend the mainly among the ladies. The universal plea- was held in Suva in September 1998. It was a workshop by another two days. The main sure and enthusiasm aroused were strikingly success and another is due to follow in July guest from abroad was Ruben Nool who evident. The aim of the Association being to 1999, again at the Fiji Institute of Technology. came from Sydney and gave instruction in spread the marvellously wide possibilities of The whole- hearted co-operation of FIT in every possible aspect of bamboo crafts, to- bamboo, it has got off to a flying start. providing its excellent accommodation and all gether with decorative work using coconut, Submitted by the necessary tools was a vital part of the great pandanus and other natural materials. Ruben Robert Austin satisfaction it brought; another factor was cer- has been designing and working with bamboo President tainly the wonderful food and drinks furnished all his life (and has a degree in the art). Bamboo Association of Fiji

7 June 1999 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees South Pacific Regional Initiative on AusAID Forest Genetic Resources (SPRIG)

SPRIG Update SUB -REGIONAL WORKSHOP ON It is hoped that a second phase of SPRIG Samoa for field trials later in the year. Some FOREST AND TREE GENETIC RE- would extend field activities to some of the seed has been sent to Queensland, to confirm SOURCES smaller Pacific island nations. Submissions and extend vegetative propagation studies un- A major recent activity for SPRIG has been have been received from Cook Islands and dertaken by Tito Alatimu in Samoa. Other organising this workshop. Pierre Sigaud's Kiribati. The proposal from the Cook Is- seed is to be sent to Niue and American summary report of the workshop is the lead lands (Mr Otheniel Tangianau, Ministry for Samoa to establish trials and conservation article in this newsletter. SPRIG would like to Outer Island Development) is for conserva- stands of this endangered species. thank major workshop sponsors, especially tion and regeneration of the local sandal- AusAID, including its International Seminar wood species (Santalum insulare), a dwin- In Fiji, Vilisoni Nataniela and Forestry De- Support Scheme, FAO Forestry Department dling species of high medicinal value. Such partment colleagues recently made compre- and SPC/PIFTSP. We also wish to say a project would complement the sandalwood hensive seed collections of a little-known "faafetai lava" to our Pacific partners and conservation strategies and work being un- kauvula or whitewood species colleagues, especially the Samoan Forestry dertaken in SPRIG countries. (Endospermum robbieanum) from three ar- Division, FAO SAPA Office and SPREP, for eas, Keka, Nadivakavua and Mt. Kasi, on making the workshop a productive and mem- The proposal from Kiribati (Mr Manate Vanua Levu. This species warrants field eval- orable occasion. The action plan and recom- Tenang, Ministry of Natural Resources De- uation in other Pacific countries with an inter- mendations of the workshop -will provide an velopment) is for development of a Pan- est in developing whitewood plantations, in- important guide for future work in regional danus germplasm collection. Pandanus cluding Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. In the and national programs on forest and tree ge- species & varieties/clones are amongst the Solomon Islands, a small number of individ- netic resources, including SPRIG. Pacific's most useful, and economically and ual tree collections have been undertaken for culturally important plants, but many clones the high value timber species, Vitex cofassus. 3"1 REGIONAL PROJECT CO- are disappearing in many parts of the Pa- ORDINATING COMMITTEE MEETING cific. The Kiribati proposal is in line with Seed was procured of important high value The 3' SPRIG Regional PCC meeting was Fred Muller's (Marshall Islands) ideas ex- exotic timber species for field trials in the held on April 15th 1999 in Apia, Samoa. This pressed at the recent Apia workshop and Solomons, including Tectona grandis (teak), meeting was attended by 18 delegates from could provide the basis for development of a Swietenia macrophylla (mahogany) and Pte- four SPRIG countries (Vanuatu, Solomon Is- Pandanus germplasm network in the Pa- rocarpus dalbergioidies (Andaman Padauk). lands, Samoa and Fiji), SPRIG Australian cific, involving exchange of information and Partners (CSIRO Forestry and Forest Prod- germplasm. Individual tree seed collections of Terminalia ucts and Queensland FRI), Regional Organi- catappa are planned to be undertaken in May zations and Projects (USP, SPREP, FAO SEED MATTERS in Vanuatu. For these collections, the Depart- SAPA Sub -regional Office and SPC/ Individual tree seed collections have been ment of Forests is being assissted by Mr. PIFTSP), Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, and made of three high priority species in recent Barry Evans, an expert on Pacific nut trees. the AusAID reviewer. months. These include the first -ever com- prehensive seed collections of malili CONSERVATION STRATEGIES The meeting discussed progress in each coun- (Terminalia richii), undertaken on Savaii In recent months, the main work on conserva- try over the past twelve months, including and Upolu by Tolusina Pouli (SPRIG Pro- tion strategies for high priority species has lessons learnt during implementation of the ject Scientist) and John Larmour (Australian been undertaken in Vanuatu by Dr Helen pilot project. It also provided an important Tree Seed Centre) in February. During these Corrigan, and Forestry Department col- forum for reviewing plans for the final five collections John provided training in use of leagues, especially Chanel Sam, Runte Liki- months of the pilot phase and the proposed rifles and demonstrated safe tree -climbing afu and Joseph Tungon. The species conser- follow-up SPRIG project. Copies of the meet- equipment. This seed is to be propagated in vation strategy for whitewood has been pre- ing minutes are available from the SPRIG pared and other strategies for Vanuatu sandal- Team Leader upon request. wood (Santalum austrocaledonicum) and two kauri species (Agathis macrophylla and A. REVIEW OF SPRIG PROJECT AND silbai) are in advanced stages of preparation. SECOND PHASE OF SPRIG PROJECT Copies of species conservation strategies for The 3 -year pilot phase of SPRIG is scheduled four species are now available (contact to end on 30th November, 1999. The annual SPRIG Team Leader or Project Scientists in plan covering the final period from July 1 Samoa and Vanuatu). 1999 to end of pilot phase is under prepara- tion. In line with the discussions of the 3rd FIELD TRIALS PCC Meeting it is proposed that the project An important field activity was the establish- be extended by several months to enable all ment of mahogany family trials (78 families) key project activities to be properly con- at Nukurua in Fiji in April by Ponijesi Bulai, cluded. An AusAID review of the SPRIG Kuldeep Singh and other Fiji Forestry De- pilot phase project is being conducted by Dr partment staff and ably assisted by a senior Luca Tacconi (AusAID, Review Team Australian technician, Mr Cliff Raddatz Leader) and Professor Peter Kanowski (Head, (Queensland FRI). Mahogany provenance re- ANU Forestry Department). Subject to source stands from Mexico, Guatemala, Hon- favourable review it is anticipated that Au- duras, Costa Rica and Panama are being es- sAID will support a follow-up phase of Collection of malili (Terminala richi) by seed rifle tablished by the Forestry Department at in Samoa (with Project Scientist Tolusina Pouli) SPRIG to commence in the middle of next Nukurua. in January 1991. year. (Continued on page 12)

8 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees June 1999 SPRIG Ne Terminalia catappa Linn. (Beach Almond) green, through yellow to bright red or dark low, wide-spreading form and easy accessibil- purpliSh red at full maturity. Fruit size varies ity of nuts. However mature trees will not considerably, with Walter & Sam (1993) withstand severe pruning. For timber produc- reporting a range in length from 2.5 to 10 cm tion, closer spacings, e.g. 4 x 4 m, should be in Vanuatu. The kernel consists of two deli- used to promote self-pruning, induce better cate and intricately entwined cotyledons en- stem form and enable control of the site more 40 closed in an inconspicuous cream -coloured rapidly. .44 h kii .tlfp140411 fr-V 044,41( testa. In the South Pacific, trees produce fruit /011/"1. . fiteetriffft f h$ sporadically throughout the year, with main Management fruiting periods varying between countries In the South Pacific, whilst large quantities of and with elevation (Evans, 1996). nuts are potentially available from existing trees, actual supply may be limited by eco- Distribution nomic considerations (Evans, 1996). On the Terminalia catappa (natapoa) nuts for sale Terminalia catappa has a wide natural distri- other hand there is a high potential to plant in a market in Vila, Vanuatu bution in near -coastal areas of the Indian and sustainably manage T catappa for nut Ocean, tropical Asia and the Pacific Ocean. production, due to their ease of propagation, Importance The rind of the fruit comprises a light pithy/ hardiness and fecundity (Evans, 1996). to Terminalia catappa (Beach almond) plays a corky tissue and enables fruits float and be In a vital role in. coastline stabilization as a tree dispersed long distances by sea currents. The Vanuatu, small number of highly desir- component of strandline plant communities species is found throughout the South Pa- able cultivars with large kernels (>3 cm long) throughout the South Pacific. The tree has cific, including Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and thin pericarp have been identified (Walter very good wind -firmness, but may suffer stem and Fiji, and the high archipelagos of Poly- & Sam, 1993), but supply is mainly for local breakage or uprooting during tropical cy- nesia and Micronesia. T catappa has been consumption. Despite its high total production and in in clones. It is a well -formed tree and has been introduced, frequently naturalized, the region, the species has not been com- widely planted for shade, ornament, and nuts, many tropical parts of the world. mercially marketed except on a small scale in especially along sandy seashores. The timber Vanuatu (Evans, 1996). Terminalia catappa is well -adapted to mar- makes an excellent general purpose hard- sub -tropical and tropical climates. Variation and Breeding wood, and is well -suited for furniture manu- itime, is in the 1000 to Major variation exists in a range of economi- facture and building. Fruits are produced from Rainfall generally range of 3500 mm, distributed rather uniformly or cally important nut characteristics, as a result about 3 years age, and the nutritious, tasty with a summer maximum. It is invariably of selection for desirable traits, e.g. for large seed kernels may be consumed without pro- found near the coast, at elevations less than fruits/kemels and ease of cracking, and propa- cessing. 300-400 m, where there is not much seasonal gation by village people in various parts of its variation in temperatures and occurs natu- range. T catappa is easily propagated, fast-growing rally on various coastal soils, especially and hardy, and flourishes with minimal sandy and rocky beaches. It is In Vanuatu the variability of T catappa is maintenance. The species warrants much raised adapted to a wide range of lighter -textured high, mainly in fruit size, colour and shape wider commercial planting for joint produc- soil types, including brackish/saline and al- (Siwatibau et al., 1998) whereas in the tion of timber and nuts, using selected culti- kaline sands over limestone, but requires Solomons fruits seem to be overall bigger and vars, in the South Pacific. Research needs good drainage when grown on heavier, less variable in size (Walter & Sam, 1993 and include an assessment of the productivity and clayey soils. 1994). Evans (1991) reported that selection in marketing of cultivars with large nuts. Work the Santa Cruz Islands (Temotu Province, is needed to determine a practical means of Silviculture Solomons) has produced some large -fruited vegetative reproduction and a technique for Fruits are reported to stay viable for a long forms. defleshing fully mature fruits and better dry- period (Degener, 1946), but are normally ing procedures. sown fresh, within a few weeks of collection, Two fruit varieties have been reported from and little is known of the seed storage be- the Mussau Islands, Bismarck Archipelago, Botanical Features haviour. Fruits may be sown without pre- PNG (Lepofsky, 1992). One type has a soft T. catappa is a spreading tree to 25 - 40 m in treatment: germination commences in 3-8 endocarp which can be easily broken with height. Younger trees display a characteristic weeks. Young seedlings grow vigorously teeth, while the other has a hard endocarp pagoda form, with a single bole and horizon- and the nursery phase is about 4-5 months. which must be hit with a stone or cut with a tal branching in regular false whorls. Large knife to obtain the nut: it is uncertain whether trees may develop large buttresses and twisted Under favourable, open, conditions, it is the soft-shelled trees breed true to type. The leaning trunks more than 1 m across. The moderately fast-growing, with early height island of Iwa, in the Marshall Bennett Group, leaves are arranged in close spirals, often growth of 2 m per year. Cultivated saplings is also renowned for its soft-shelled nuts crowded towards the ends of the upturned produce tiers of 4-5 branches; as new tiers (Bourke, 1994). branchlets. Leaves are simple, broadly obo- are produced by the leader apex, some of the vate, 8-25 cm long x 5-14 cm wide, turning lowest branch complexes die back. The main The species should be highly amenable to a bright yellow then red before falling. Trees leader may be cut out of the top, sometimes breeding program given the high level of are briefly deciduous during the dry season, more than once, to create a wide-spreading variation in nut characteristics and the young sometimes losing their leaves twice in a year. shade or specimen tree. age, about 3-4 years, at which plants flower and fruit, and accessibility of flowers for con The flowers are small (4-6 mm across), white Wide spacings are recommended for plant- trolled pollination, although the latter are or creamish, five -lobed, arranged on long (8- ings for amenity purposes and for nut pro- small and crowded. 25 cm) axillary spikes. Typically 1-5 fruits are duction, at 10-12 m centres. The main axis formed on the basal part of the flower spike. may be cut out of young trees to encourage a (Continued on page /0) During maturation, fruits change colour from

9 June 1999 Pacific islands Forests & Trees

SPRIG News New Project for Screening Recalcitrant Tropical Forest Seed Appropriate seed handling methods are vital For each country, two species have been Given the complex nature of the protocols in facilitating the use of indigenous tropical targetted for screening (see below). The and need for standardising procedures across forest tree species with recalcitrant and inter- screening process looks at fundamental as- institutes, a one -week training course has mediate seeds. There is still very little pects of seed handling, providing experi- been proposed in order to familiarise repre- known on optimum handling conditions for ence and scientific output. For each sentative staff from the SPRIG countries in these seed types which in many instances species, studies will cover floral biology the use of the protocol. It is proposed to only remain viable for a matter of days to and ecology, seed collection, ripeness crite- conduct the workshop in one of the SPRIG weeks. In response to this problem, the Inter- ria, handling, cleaning, seed and germina- countries (Tonga or Fiji) run by the Aus- national Plant Genetic Resources Institute tion characteristics, desiccation tolerance, tralian Tree Seed Centre (ATSC) between (IPGRI) in collaboration with the DANIDA storage and other aspects. For comparative July and September, providing funding be- Forest Seed Centre (DFSC) have coordinated purposes, the tests are to be duplicated with comes available. The workshop will enable and funded a project on handling and storage one set of tests run by the laboratory under- participants to become familiar with the pro- of recalcitrant and intermediate tropical for- taking the collection (collecting partner) ject and serve as practical training in the use est tree seed titled 'Effective Conservation and the second by a reciprocating country of the various steps in the protocol. A plan and use of Intermediate and Recalcitrant (replicating partner). The project has devel- of activities will be drawn up covering as- Tropical Forest Tree Seed'. oped standard methods of seed handling and pects relating to species, collection timing, protocols for determining seed characteris- seed desiccation, storage programs and selec- The project aims to, tics and in particular differences between tion of replicating partners. Following the strengthen the research capacity on for- recalcitrant and intermediate seed. Results workshop, country representatives will then est tree seed in developing countries, on the species screened will be made avail- be responsible for undertaking seed collect- develop effective techniques for seed able through publications including the dis- ing and implementing the protocol. Seed will handling for a number of economically tribution of a DFSC newsletter. also be sent to partner countries for the pur- valuable tropical forestry and agro- pose of duplicating the desiccation and stor- forestry trees through research and tech- A provisional list of tree species for investi- age trials. nology transfer, gation has been drawn up as follows: improve the basic scientific knowledge Solomon Islands: A separate DFSC/ IPGRI regional workshop on recalcitrant/intermediate storage be- Octomeles sumatrana, is proposed for Malaysia within one year of haviour of tropical tree seed. Calophyllum peekelii commencing the project. The purpose of this Vanuatu: workshop is to strengthen the collaboration The first phase of the project, which was Santalum austocaledonicum, between the participants and address prob- completed at the end of 1998, involved the Endospermum medullosum lems relating to the trials. DFSC/ IPGRI will screening of 25 tree species with participants Fiji: contribute funds towards the shipment of from countries in Asia, Africa, Latin Amer- Santalum yasi, seed to partner countries and for the desicca- ica, Europe and North America. The screen- Barringtonia edulis tion and storage trials, as well as overall ing followed a detailed protocol which is Tonga: technical backstopping for the project. The designed to standardise methods between all Garcinia sessilis, ATSC will provide the main technical sup- participating institutes. A second three year Syzygium corynocarpum port and co-ordination. phase to the project has been implemented to Samoa: Submitted by which South Pacific partner countries in the Manilkara hoshinoi, Brian Gunn SPRIG Project have been invited to partici- Syzygium inophylloides Australian Tree Seed Centre pate. CSIRO Forestry and Forestry Products Canberra, AUSTRALIA

(Continued from page 9) mortising are fair, turning is poor while tween regions in the Pacific. For example, Uses and Products sanding, resistance to screw splitting and throughout most of Papua New Guinea, nuts On small islands of the South Pacific T. cat- nailing properties are good. are eaten only occasionally by children or not appa are mostly cultivated as part of multi- at all; however it is more important in the storey tree crop systems (Evans, 1996). The The timber is of generally good quality, and islands of the Marshall Bennett Group where species plays a vital role in coastline stabi- whilst not durable in ground contact, may be the nuts are eaten by children and adults lization, their well -developed lateral root sys- used for a wide range of end uses such as (Bourke, 1994). tems helping hold together fragile sandy general construction, interior purposes soils, especially during storm surges and king (flooring and furniture), boat building, carts Tannin is extracted from the fruit shell, bark, tides. It is widely planted as an ornamental and planks. Larger logs are suitable for ve- leaves and roots while a black dye is obtained and amenity shade tree. The flowers yield a neer and plywood manufacture.. Traditional from bark, fruits and foliage. Leaves and bark nectar which is attractive to honeybees. wood uses include canoe hulls and paddles, have a wide range of medicinal uses. In Poly- kava bowls, tool handles, war clubs, walk- nesia an infusion of the young leaves or The heartwood is brown to reddish -brown, ing sticks, drums and fuelwood. scraped bark is occasionally taken as a potion with a wide, rather indistinct, band of lighter - for mouth infections and to bathe fractures. coloured sapwood. The timber is fairly The oil -rich kernels or nuts make a tasty and smooth, lustrous, elastic, tough, fairly hard, nutritious food, while the outer flesh of Extracted from species digest prepared by medium -coarse in texture, often with irregu- agreeable types is widely consumed by chil- Lex Thomson and Annie Uwamariya for lar or twisted grain. Wood density is 530-540 dren. The nuts may be consumed fresh after CABI Electronic Forest Compendium. For kg/m3 at 12% moisture content. The timber is extraction from the shell or else preserved the complete digest on Terminalia catappa, easily sawn but the interlocked grain tends to by smoking and consumed up to one year including reference list contact SPRIG Team pick-up during sawing. Shaping, boring, and later. Utilization of nuts for food varies be- Leader.

10 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees June 1999

.0AOACLUI ACIAR Pacific Forestry Update

Significance of Soil Nutrient Limitations to the Growth of Forest Plantations

Results from current ACIAR research activities in a number of Pacific countries are clearly demonstrating that deficiencies of one or more mineral nutrients can severely reduce tree growth rates in many soils used for plantation forestry. The extent to which productivity is affected by these nutrient limitations depends on the soil type, previous land use history, and the particular tree species being grown. In addition, because many of the common plantation species grown in the region appear healthy even when their potential growth is severely constrained by nutrient deficiencies (Figure 1), the problem frequently goes unrecognised even by the most diligent plantation managers. In this article, we briefly summarise the approach that we have used in identifying these nutritional problems and discuss some of our findings to date.

Fig.I Two healthy looking Furalyptus pelliia trees. Both trees are the same age but the tree on the right has been given more fertiliser. The difference in height rep- resents lost growth potential that could be overlooked if trees are simply assessed on their appearance.

How have we determined whether nutrients are limiting to plantation growth? To determine the extent to which nutrients are limiting productiv- some of the trace elements (e.g. Zn). Many of these deficiencies ity we have used a number of approaches, both individually and in were severe, depressing seedling growth to less than 50% of that combination. These approaches include: achieved when all nutrients were supplied (see Table 1). soil testing; Table I. Examples of results from nutrient omission experiments showing the nursery and glasshouse experiments; types of nutrient deficiency found and their severity in depressing growth on three field experiments; differing soil parent materials. nutrient analysis on leaves and bark; Location Soil Parent Nutrient defi- Growth Reduc- measurement of physiological parameters, and; Material ciency detected tion (% of max.) characterization of symptoms of nutrient disorders. Kolombangara, basalt P 80% Solomon Islands For example, as an initial indication of the likely nutritional problems and their severity on particular soil types, we have Vaiea, Niue coral K 40% N 27% conducted glasshouse and nursery experiments (called "nutrient omission" experiments) on more than 30 field soils from north- Atherton granite P 99% eastern Queensland and the western Pacific. These soils represent Tablelands, Cu 97% Australia a wide range of the soil types used for plantation forestry in the region and included those derived from basaltic, granitic, meta- To confirm the validity of the results from these preliminary morphic and coralline parent materials. We found that at least glasshouse and nursery experiments, we are conducting field trials one nutrient was deficient for tree growth in each soil; the only on a number of soil types that are important for plantation forestry exception to this was a young soil derived from volcanic ash (on in the region. These trials have confirmed the nature and severity Santo in Vanuatu) in which no deficiencies were detected. Across of nutrient deficiencies predicted from the glasshouse and nursery this range of soils, we recorded deficiencies of all the major "omission" experiments. In addition, they have revealed substan- page l3) nutrients (macronutrients) except Mg, as well as deficiencies of (Continued on

Gmellna arborea (27 m ths) Tectona grandls (27 mth) 800 5000 4000 Fig 2: Response of two species (at age 27 600

3000 months) to increasing P fertilizer on a soil 400 2000 low in chemically -extractable P on 200 1000 Kolombangara in the Solomon Islands

0 0 0 500 1000 0 500 1000 P Rate (kg/ha) P rate (kg/ha)

11 June 1999 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees ACIAR Pacific Forestry Update

(Continued from page 1I) the results of our current research to What strategies can be adopted to tial differences in response to nutrient predict or indicate likely problems in minimise these limitations and in- deficiency between different species new situations. This should lead to crease plantation productivity; are when growing on the same site. For better management and increased pro- they economically viable, and are they example, the "nutrient omission" experi- ductivity by alerting plantation man- generally applicable? ments conducted in the nursery at agers to the nature and extent of nutri- Kolombangara in the Solomon Islands ent limitations they might encounter Having identified the extent and severity showed that P deficiency was severely before these limitations have a negative of nutritional problems on many forest reducing the growth of teak seedlings economic effect on plantation produc- soils from throughout the Pacific, we are (Table 1) and this was confirmed by the tivity. A much abbreviated and simpli- now investigating strategies to reduce large growth response of teak to P appli- fied version of the framework that we the impacts of these on plantation pro- cation in the field (Fig. 2). However, are developing is presented in Table 2. ductivity. This is a major focus of our there was a much lesser response to P current ACIAR activities. For example, application of Gmelina grown with the Table 2. Likely nutrient deficiencies to we are looking at application of appro- same treatments at the same field site. be encounter based on soil type priate fertilizer formulations to reduce The fmding that species differ substan- the severity of particular nutrient defi- tially in their nutrient requirements has ciencies, as well as more effective ways implications for site -species matching Soil Parent Likely deficient nutrients of delivering fertilizer to plants during and in the development of cost-effective Material Moderate Severe their establishment in the field. We then fertilizer strategies for plantations, and plan to undertake cost -benefit analyses will be discussed further in the next issue Basalts P to evaluate the economic feasibility of of "Forests & Trees". fertilizer strategies for particular planta- tion operations in the region. Develop- Meta Ca P Applying the results more broadly sediments ments in these studies will be reported in future issues of this newsletter. From the results of these studies from Granatic K N,P,S Submitted by across the region, we are beginning to aeolian sands Mike Webb and note enough consistency in the pattern Paul Reddell and extent of deficiencies to develop a Weathered N K, Zn CSIRO, framework of likely nutritional problems Coral Queensland, Australia and based on soil parent material, degree of Richard Pauku soil weathering and previous land -use Kolombangara Forest Products Ltd. history. We are hoping this framework Solomon Islands can be used as a basis for extension of

(Continued from page 8) Mr Basil Gua, Forest Division and Mr SPRIG News is compiled by, Field activities in Tonga included completion Richard Pauku, KFPL were largely respon- Lex Thomson and Doug Boland, of planting of the 1998 field trials (additional sible for organising local arrangements for SPRIG Project, Australia replicates of red cedar family trials) and 12 - the workshop. Mr Stephen Walker, QFRI Tevita Faka'osi & Viliami Manu, month measurement of earlier red cedar tri- prepared the course contents and delivered Department of Forestry, Tonga, als. At Shark Bay, Santo (Vanuatu) the ma- several lectures assisted by Mr Doug loan Viji, DOF, Vanuatu, hogany provenance and family trials estab- Boland, CSIRO. A porta-propagator was Tolusina Pouli, Forestry Division, Samoa, lished in February 1997 were propped up also commissioned for the Forest Division Kuldeep Singh, Department of Forestry, Fiji, after cyclone damage and assessed for height at Pointete during the workshop. Basil Gua, Forestry Division, growth and survival. Survival is very high Solomon Islands and trees in some families have grown very Lectures were given on the theory of vege- rapidly, with many in excess of 3 m tall. tative propagation and how vegeta- tive propagation can be integrated VEGETATIVE PROPAGATION into a tree improvement programme. WORKSHOP IN SOLOMON ISLANDS These were followed by practical A SPRIG workshop on vegetative propaga- sessions in which participants pre- tion was held at Pointete, on Kolombangara pared potting mixes and cuttings for Island on 13-14 May 1999. Workshop par- trial in the porta-propagator. ticipants included staff from Kolombangara Forest Products Ltd, Solomon Islands Forest Materials included in these trials in- Division, and students from the Forestry volved seedlings of teak (Tectona Training College at Pointete. The location grandis), mahogany (Swietenia was ideal as participants could inspect the macrophylla), Gmelina arborea and nearby KFPL Gmelina arborea cuttings Kamarere (Eucalyptus deglupta). nursery which mass produces over 38,000 for operational planting cuttings per month Whitewood family trials - Shark Bay, Vanuatu. using simple but very effective technology. Established in January 1999.

12 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees June 1999 DPI Queensland Forestry Research Institute WA t 01QI PP! Developing Forest Pest Surveillance Systems in Asia and the Pacific Plantations of fast-growing tree species have and in tropical Australia. Systematic surveys Zeuzera coffeae in Malaysia (Streets 1962), been established in many tropical countries to were conducted in these plantations across a and by the sae-spckinz Amblvnelta ro- LI1C ILICIWUOU dffil inuustriai range or species, provenances, ages, geo- cophaga in the Solomon Islands (Bigger 1985). wood, and to help relieve the pressure on har- graphical locations, site conditions and times The Pacific Islands thus may face similar risk vesting of natural forests. The total area of of year using standardised data collecting of attack of their plantations by damaging pests such plantations is expanding rapidly. Accord- methods. The project was completed in De- and diseases, as do their Asian counterparts. ing to the 1997 FAO report on the state of the cember 1998 and the data are being analysed. world's forests, more than 80 percent of the Results so far indicate that the majority of Given the many benefits of systematised forest forest plantations of the developing world are plantations in these countries are healthy but health surveillance, it seems appropriate to ex- in the Asia -Oceania region, increasing from several potentially serious pests were found. tend this scheme to other countries in the Asia 32.6 million hectares in 1980 to 66.9 million For example in Vietnam, a longicom beetle Pacific. The ultimate aim is the formation of a hectares in 1995. These areas are expected to Aristobia approximator has infested 4000 ha regional forest health network in which protec- double by 2010. Eucalypts and pines comprise out of 8000 ha of E. camaldulensis and E. tion specialists from the participating countries 20 percent of the total area of plantations in the tereticornis in the south of the country, threat- will use standardised methods and data bases to region with teak (Tectona grandis), Acacia ening the commercial viability of joint - gather and exchange pest information. To this spp., Dalbergia sissoo, Paraserianthes fal- venture plantations there. In Queensland, a end, the possibility of commencing a similar cataria, Casuarina spp., Gmelina arborea and tip -boring moth Cryptophlebia sp. and shoot - project with interested Pacific Island countries Swietenia .spp. occupying much of the rest. sucking bug Mictis profana have emerged as is currently being explored. Such a project Many of these species are being grown as serious pests of acacias. would include training in forest surveillance exotics. techniques, the use of the forest health This project has had several important bene- database, methods for collecting, rearing and There is increasing concern among forest man- fits: storing specimens and assistance with speci- agers and protection specialists that such mas- key pests have been identified and their men identification. For further information sive expansion in planted area, much of it in distribution determined. contact Dr Ross Wylie email: monoculture and sometimes on marginal sites, data have been collected on the impact of [email protected] may be accompanied by an increased likeli- these pests. hood of serious damage by insects and dis- a standardised methodology for pest References Anjos, eases. As well as the risks posed by exotic surveillance in plantations has been de- N., Santos, G.P. and Zanunclo, J.C. (1986). Pragas do eucalipto e seu controle. Informe Agropecuario 12: organisms, indigenous pests may adapt with veloped and successfully used in several 50-58. time to the new trees as hosts. Evidence from countries. Bigger, M. (1985). The effect of attack by Amblypelta several countries lends credence to these con- a database has been created for storage of cocophaga China (Hemiptera: Coreidae) on growth of Euca- lyptus deglupta in the Solomon Islands. Bulletin of Entomo- cerns. In southern China over the period 1987 this information and easy access by all logical Research 75:595-608. to 1991, the number of indigenous insect collaborators. Braza, R.D. (1988). Biology of the varicose borer, Agrilus species recorded feeding on eucalypts in- a network of protection specialists has sexsignatus (Fisher), on bagras, Eucalyptus deglupta Blume. creased from 96 to 167 and levels of damage been formed for exchange of information Philippines Entomologist 7:351-358. FAO (1997). State of the World's Forests. FAO, Rome. by identified key species also increased (Wylie on pest problems. Floyd, R., Wylie, R., Old, K., Dudzinsid, M. and Kile, G. 1992). In Brazil, which now has more than 3 information obtained will assist forest (1998). Pest risk analysis of Eucalyptus spp. at risk from million ha. of Eucalyptus spp., there are over managers in identifying, assessing and incursions of plant pests and pathogens through Australia's northern border. Contract Report No. 44, CSIRO Entomol- 300 insect species associated with this genus of handling pest risk. ogy, Canberra. which 10 percent are considered to be pests early warning is provided of pest threats Roberts, H. (1987). Forest insect pests of Papua New (Anjos et al. 1986). New and potentially seri- that will enable quarantine authorities in Guinea. 1. Under -bark borers of kamarere and tenninalias - ous problems are constantly emerging, such as the various countries to take appropriate Agrilus beetles. Harvest 12: 59-64. Streets, R.J. (1962). Exotic Forest Trees in the British attacks by mosquito bugs Helopeltis spp., best measures for prevention of pest incur- Commonwealth. Clarendon Press: Oxford, 765pp. known as pests of horticultural crops, on young sions. Data have already been of value in Wylie, F.R. (1992). A comparison of insect pest problems in eucalypt and acacia plantings in several coun- the preparation of a pest risk analysis, on eucalypt plantations in Australia and in southern China. Paper presented at XIX International Congress of Entomol- tries (Wylie and Floyd 1998, Wylie et al. behalf of the Australian Quarantine and ogy, Beijing, China, 28 June -5 July, 1992. 11 pp. 1998). Inspection Service, for Eucalyptus spp. Wylie, R. and Floyd, R. (1998). The insect threat to at risk of incursions of plant pests and eucalypt plantations in tropical areas of Australia and Asia. Paper presented at IUFRO Workshop on "Pest Management pest information is often difficult to diseases through Australia's northern Up-to-date of Tropical Forest Plantations", 25-29 May 1998, Chan- obtain due to factors such as the rapid changes border (Floyd et al. 1998). thaburi, Thailand. in the plantation resource referred to above, the Wylie, F.R., Floyd, R.B., Elliott, H.J., Khen, C.V., in- time delay in publishing, and the fact that much There is emerging interest in several Pacific tachat, J., Hutacharern, C., Tubtim, N., Kha, L.D., Do, N.V., Rachmatajah, 0., Gales, K., Zulfiyah, A. and of the activity in progress is not known interna- trees as plantation species, for example En- Vuokko, R. (1998). Insect pests of tropical acacias: a new tionally and may never be published. In addi- dospermum medullosum (whitewood) and project in southeast Asia and northern Australia. In Turnbull, tion, the paucity of data on the effects of pest Terminalia richii (malili). Already, in Vanu- J.W Crompton, H.R. and Pinyopusarerk, K. (Eds) Proceed- ings of the third international acacia workshop, Hanoi, Viet- growth and survival frequently atu, there are reports of severe defoliation of attack on tree nam, 27-30 November 1997. ACIAR Proceedings No. 82. lead managers to underestimate pest problems. whitewood by a leaf-feeding insect, and in Papua New Guinea, species of Terminalia are Submitted by To begin addressing some of these issues, attacked by Agrilus spp. buprestid borers Dr Ross Wylie, ACIAR funded a small project, led by QFRI in (Roberts 1987). Another Pacific species, Eu- Program Leader Forest Protection, collaboration with CSIRO and Forestry Tasma- calyptus deglupta has experienced serious in- QFRI, nia, to gather data on pest distribution and sect problems when grown in plantations, be- Queensland, importance in plantations of eucalypts and aca- ing attacked by Agrilus spp. borers in Papua Australia cias in four southeast Asian countries New Guinea and the Philippines (Roberts (Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam) 1987, Braza 1988), by the cossid moth borer

13 June 1999 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees

PACIFICLAND Network Update I ORM AusAID

A New Millennium -A New Course For many Pacific Island na- General, said 'Such client - tions, land degradation is al- oriented approaches to re- ready a serious problem. With search and development are increasing populations and now accepted globally as the more mouths to feed, more key to success when working sloping fragile lands are being on land degradation prob- farmed more often and more lems '. He added that IB- extensively; resulting in SRAM, in collaboration with greater risks of erosion, de- its PACIFICLAND partners, clining soil fertility and aims to introduce and sup- falling production. In their port the adoption of the latest continuing regional effort to concepts and tools in sus- tackle the problem, PACIFI- tainable land management in CLAND network members the Pacific region. from Tonga, PNG, Solomon Network members discussing sustainable land management strategies Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji and being demonstrated at 'Eua in Tonga IBSRAM ' s mission is to Samoa met with colleagues Peter Kaoh from Vanuatu discussed contribute to food security in developing from Niue, Cook Islands, Palau and Fed- sloping land conservation activities on in regions through research and related ac- erated States of Micronesia Nuku'alofa `Efate, North Pentecost, North Ambrym, tivities that promote sustainable land from 7-11 December 1998. Paama and Tatum, and how farmers are management. It aims to provide a practi- now more aware of the longer term the cal and well -organized platform on sus- Opening meeting, Tonga's Prime value of sloping land conservation mea- for Agriculture and tainable land management which is com- Minister and Minister sures, especially in erosion -prone areas Vaea, welcomed dele- plemented by activities relating to the Forestry, Baron such as North Ambrym. Viliami Manu development of research tools, design gates saying 'The challenge in Tonga and reported the establishment of field sites the Pacific lies with the con- on 'Eua and Vava`u in Tonga, and the and conduct of training courses, and in- formation dissemination and retrieval. servation and sustainable management of involvement of local farmers in these our sloping land and particularly the activities. Ezekiel Walaodo discussed to partici- information contact soil'. He went on challenge the new Ringgi site on Kolombangara in Forfurther pants to ensure that conservation prac- Solomon Islands and emphasized plans Dr Tony Dowling, farmers' Network Coordinator, tices continue to be taken onto to initiate on -farm activities in Malaita, PACIFICLAND Regional Office, fields by emphasizing the importance of Guadalcanal and Isabel Provinces. sustainable development within the re- Malaki Iakopo and David Hunter in- PO Box 13707, gion. troduced network members to socioeco- Suva, nomic activities being undertaken by Fiji. +679 477 770. Network members accepted Boron USP and MAFFM in Samoa. Bill Phone/fax PACIFI- E-mail: tdowling®is.comj Vaea's challenge saying that Humphrey discussed the beneficial role mov- CLAND activities are successfully PACIFICLAND played in determining ing on -farm to promote and disseminate the NARI Farming sloping land conservation practices, and Systems Research in planning they are involving farmers and Extension pro- and implementing these activities on their gramme for PNG. own farms. All country pro- gramme leaders ac- In reviewing research and extension welcomed the tivities during 1998, country programme move to involve leaders reported progress in developing farmers and exten- sloping land conservation technologies sion officers to pro- and emphasized the importance of sus- mote and dissemi- tainable land management. nate sloping land conservation prac- described Inoke Ratukalou from Fiji tices through on - MAFF Land Use Section successes in farm activities. using contour rows of vetiver grass and pineapples with lower rates of soil ero- Dr Craswell, IB- Peter Kaoh from FSA Vanuatu discussing sustainable land sion on very steep land cropped with SRAM' s Director - management activities with Anau Manarangi from Cook Islands ginger and taro. Mireille Ferrandon and

14 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees June 1999

EUROPEAN COMMISSION UNITED KINGDOM DG VIII FOUNDATION FOR THE FSPI Forest Focus SOUTH PACIFIC

Using Mangroves to Save Our Shores

Mangrove forests in Kiribati provide the activities of Environment Week South Tarawa and establishing a man - abundant benefits to the way of life for the along with community groups, so it is grove nursery site in North Tarawa. people and the islands. They provide anticipated to be quite a big week for shelter and protection from storms, sea mangroves and trees amongst other envi- Coastal erosion being a major concern to spray, soil erosion, act as breeding places ronmental activities. small island countries like Kiribati, man- for fish, provide dancing, medicinal and groves provide the most natural and easy constructional materials. A recent discovery in the local use of the prevention of soil erosion, apart from it's mangrove 'te tongo' (Rhizophora stylosa) many other uses to the way of life in The most common mangrove species in is the making of putty for use in canoe Kiribati. Therefore, mangrove trials on Kiribati is Rhizophora stylosa( 'te tongo). construction. This traditional use of te other islands in Kiribati will be carried out According to a 1995 report by William tongo is not widely known, this knowl- as part of the work in saving our shores. Metz, three other mangrove species exist, edge was collected from the old men of Bruguiera gymnorhiza, Sonneratia alba the outer island, Tabiteuea North. The Reference and Lumnitzera littorea. All the four making of putty is a simple process in Metz, William D. (1997) The Mangroves species can be found in Butaritari, one of which the ripe seeds of 'te tongo' are of Kiribati: An Inventory, Feasibility and the northern islands of the Gilbert group. collected and boiled. Once boiled, the Management Study. UNDP/FAO South core of the seeds or the embryo is taken Pacific Forestry Development Programme Raising public awareness on the uses of out and mashed in a bowl, with water (RAS/92/361), Working Paper No.12. mangroves is currently carried out added to get the required consistency. through radio shows and community edu- This is then used to fill in the holes in the Submitted by cation. As a result, local farmers in the canoe during construction and before Erimeta Barako, South have started farming or cultivation painting. Eco-forestry Officer, of mangroves. The first mangrove farm FSP Kiribati. by Baiteke, is still being monitored by the The method used to make putty can also Eco-forestry project. Two local farmers be used to make food out of te tongo, this have also started growing mangroves is made by adding water to create a more (Rhizophora stylosa), this will be fol- watery result, and adding sugar or local lowed up in due course. Plans are also syrup to sweeten the mixture. underway in support of the Ministry of Environment's 'Environment Week' Monitoring of the Rhizophora species in scheduled for the first week of June in South is now carried out once a month which mangroves and other trees will be with base and stem diameters, leaf planted. Mangrove seeds are to be col- lengths and widths, heights and number lected and stored before Environment of leaves being recorded. Other trials are Week. School students, and other govern- planned, which include getting the other ment organisations will be taking part in species from Butaritari, trialing them on Monitoring mangrove species in Kiribati

Reaching the European and North American Markets Just World Trading (JWT), the non profit a significant price advantage over re- tified eco-timber to the New Zealand mar- trading arm of the UK Foundation for the gional markets ($US500-$US750 FOB) ket for the past year. This year VETE will South Pacific (UKFSP), provides the es- but expect a consistent supply of a high be working with an increasing number of sential link between community-based quality product. JWT is now trying to eco-timber producers throughout the timber and non -timber enterprises in the source FSC-certified and sustainably Solomon Islands to export an average of South Pacific and other areas of the world managed timber to meet orders for 40 cubic metres per month of eco-timber, with end consumers. Kwila, Narra, Rosewood, Cuchi, Curu- mainly to customers in New Zealand. pau, Gmelina, and Ochoo for use in gar- JWT is currently working with the FSP den terraces, decking, fencing, windows, The SPCEF project is interested in pro- South Pacific Community Eco-Forestry doors, cabinetry, and wharf rebuilding. moting networks of community producer Project (SPCEF) to initiate export of tropi- groups from across the South Pacific. cal hardwood from sustainably managed Getting past the export barriers Networks to promote and demonstrate sources into the European and North SPCEF-sponsored eco-timber yards are small scale community-led utilization of American market. The European market being established to enable small produc- natural resources that is economically, so- has a strong preference for Forest Stew- ers to come together to reach regional cially, and environmentally sustainable. ardship Council (FSC)-certified timber, and international markets. The Village Submitted by Richard Hoath with the North American market moving Eco-Timber Yard (VETE) in the SPCEF Regional Marketing Advisor in the same direction. These markets offer Solomon Islands has exported ITTG cer- contact: [email protected]

15 June 1999 Pacific Islands Forests & Trees

(Continued from page 6) be more aggressive about finding island stu- 3. Publish warning flyers and/or Pacific islands, led a panel discussion about dents studying in Hawaii and elsewhere, and posters on major invasive species to facilitate these activities. They are complicated in the recruiting them into the internship program; early identification and action. islands because the scale of sampling was de- further involve Pacific island Congressional 4. Develop a training program and signed for the mainland United States and is delegations in amending statutes to extend workshop for quarantine officers, land man- too coarse for most islands, while being too scholarships to Pacific islanders; each head of agers, foresters and others concerned with the fine for very large areas like Alaska. Sue's forestry (1) work with his/her own govern- recognition, exclusion, eradication and control group produced a proposal to begin FIA work ment leaders to raise the profile of forestry of invasive plant species in the Pacific. in Guam, the Marshall Islands, and Maui, and natural resources education, and (2) pre- 5. Develop a risk -rating system for Hawaii later this year. pare individual training and development the Pacific islands. plans with/for each current employee. John Neisess led a discussion about budget Among key items of Committee business at- needs for the Fiscal Year 2001. Results will be Bob Hobdy led a discussion with examples of tended to were, forwarded to Washington for inclusion in the a valuation method for urban trees, developed revision of the PIC Charter to include President's Budget for that year. by the International Society of Arboriculture, Robert Wescom as a full member of the Council of Tree & Landscape Appraisers. Committee; Jack Ewel led a panel on research needs and This is the beginning of a process to place development of input to the Council of activities in the Pacific islands. He expressed solid values on forests and trees in Pacific Western State Foresters' Strategic Plan approval of the PIC Plan of Work items about islands. Participants worked with the con- Revision; species introductions and control of weedy cepts and learned how to assign appropriate discussion of funding allocation formulas species, valuation of goods and services de- values to trees of various sizes and in various and problems; rived from forests, and resource assessments, situations. These valuing exercises are an im- review of the Performance Measures Ac- all of which tie to research. The group ex- portant part of our work as foresters, and can complishment System, for reporting on pressed interest in these additional areas of help decision -makers to assign appropriate work accomplished through US Forest research: watershed/aquifer/water lens research values to forests and trees. Service grants; on high islands and atolls; understanding pro- further revisions to the PIC Plan of Work; cesses that drive fire -prone ecosystems; and Jim Space presented his paper Observations election of David Limtiaco of Guam to be assistance with technology transfer in the areas on invasive plant species in Micronesia, Vice -Chairman of the Committee (he will of agroforestry systems for site restoration and which he wrote in collaboration with Dr. accede to the Chair at the end of Fred production, natural forest management/regen- Marjorie Falanruw of Yap State, FSM. . The Muller's term in September 2001); eration; development or modification of fuel paper lists plants under five categories: development of the PIC budget for FY and fire behavior models for Pacific islands; dangerous species not known to be in 2000; and creation of natural resources data bases. Micronesia; selection of Hawaii as the venue of the species that are invasive elsewhere and February, 2000 annual meeting of the The entire group participated in a discussion of likewise invasive in Micronesia; PIC.; and 9) set July 28/29, 1999 as the "Building Technical and Professional Skills", species not known to be invasive else- date of the next PeaceSat meeting. and heard from Kashgar Rengulbai of Palau where but which have spread or appear about his personal history of becoming the to be spreading in Micronesia; A field trip was made on Sunday February 21 youngest member of the Palau Forestry Pro- species that are mentioned or listed as to the Islet of Bikirin in Majuro Lagoon, where gram. IPIF has been taking advantage of in- weedy or invasive elsewhere and are the owning family is establishing an eco- ternships offered through the University of common or weedy in Micronesia; and tourism site for international visitors. The PIC Hawaii as a way of finding island students who native and naturalized species exhibiting members enjoyed examining the vegetation of are already enrolled in college, and employing aggressive behavior. the islet, and snorkeling in the clear waters them during their summer break in forestry on around it, as well as the excellent food and their home islands. This hasn't yet led to re- The discussion that followed Jim's presenta- companionship afforded by this well -planned cruiting new foresters, but the exposure greatly tion resulted in listing five new Action Items excursion. expands the awareness of students and makes for the PIC Plan of Work: them better citizens and professionals, what- 1. Seek evaluation and recommen- Submitted by ever career they may decide to settle into. After dations of experts to address specific plant Len Newell much more discussion, these opportunities pest problems. USDA Forest Service/IPSFS were agreed as beneficial: on-the-job training 2. Continue development and main- Honolulu, in forest inventory and health monitoring; for- tenance of the database of known and poten- HAWAII est mensuration (Robert Wescom can instruct); tial invasive plant species.

Place postage here

Pacific Islands FORESTS AND TREES The views expressed in the articles in this newsletter are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Programme, SPC, UNDP, AmsAID, or FAO. This newsletter is published quarterly by the Pacific Islands Forests and Trees Support Programme, RAS/97/330. We welcome any news or articles on forests, trees and related activities. Please send your contributions to the: Programme Coordinator, PIF&TSP, UNDP, Private Mail Bag, Suva, FIJI, or fax to (679) 303 2I2(dired) or 301 718(UNDP). Our office is located at Forum Secretariat Complex, Ratu Sukuna Road, Suva, FIJI. Phone no. (679) 300 432 or (679) 305 244, emaibspforest*spc.org.f]

16