MPTS - MULTI PURPOSE TREE SPECIES

Having had a taste of what it is like to be dependent on the forest department for tree seedlings, we decided it would make life much easier to develop our own nurseries and be as independent as possible.

Instead of having access to only a few different species, creating our own nurseries would give us the freedom to grow and plant a large variety of different multi-purpose tree species (see species). As well as restoring biodiversity and improving wildlife habitats, multi purpose tree species can provide villagers with a sustainable source of firewood, animal fodder and bedding, medicine, fruits, dyes, tools, fencing, and more.

By planting these trees on the perimeter of villages and agricultural land, the workload of the villagers is greatly reduced, especially the women, who would otherwise have to walk far into the forest to find what they are looking for. Also, with a greater supply of animal fodder closer to home, there is less need to graze livestock in the forest, therefore allowing natural regeneration of tree seedlings, mushrooms, medicinal, aromatic and dye plants on the forest floor, i.e. non-timber forest products, all of which can be used to generate income.

There are many different tree, shrub and grass species that have different uses and harvesting methods that we are still researching. Some of the most valuable knowledge of sustainable living is in danger of being forgotten, and often it is only the elders in the villages who are able to tell us about the different uses of plants and trees. We aim to revive this knowledge, keep it alive and use it to help the villagers continue living a sustainable way of life.