Agroforestry Archives - Sustainable Agriculture

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Mangkono Tree: The Ironwood of the Philippines

Agroforestry

One of the Philippines' most incredible natural resources is the Mangkono tree, also known as "The Iron Wood Tree." This unique and valuable tree is a true gem of the Philippines, particularly in regions like Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, Palawan, Samar, and Dinagat Island. The Mangkono tree (sometimes called Magkono), scientifically known as Xanthostemon verdugonianus, holds several lesser-known facts that make it a true natural wonder deserving of our attention. Tall and Skinny, Yet Incredibly Durable At first glance, the Mangkono tree might seem unimposing due to its relatively small to medium size, with a diameter of about 20-36 inches and a height of 30-40 feet. However, don't be deceived by its slender appearance. The Mangkono tree boasts a hard, thin, and smooth bark, contr...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Why Narra Wood is So Expensive

Agroforestry

Narra wood, renowned for its stunning beauty and remarkable durability, is highly sought after in woodworking and furniture making. This exquisite wood, native to the Philippines, is known for its rich, reddish-brown color and fine grain, making it a favorite among artisans and craftsmen. But why is Narra wood so expensive? To understand the factors driving its price, we need to explore the world of narra trees, their uses, conservation efforts, and the legal framework surrounding their protection. What is Narra Tree The narra tree, scientifically known as Pterocarpus indicus, is a majestic hardwood species endemic to Southeast Asia and the Pacific region. In the Philippines, it is often called the "Philippine mahogany" due to its remarkable similarity to mahogany in terms of its color, ...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

What is “Tree Earth-Balling”?

Agroforestry

The term "earth-balling" has gained popularity in discussions about various projects involving trees, such as constructing the Cebu Coastal Road tunnel and road improvement along S. Osmeña Boulevard. But what exactly does earth-balling entail? Earth-balling is crucial for relocating mature trees or vegetation that has grown past their seedling stage. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has provided comprehensive guidelines for transplanting mature trees, ensuring their survival, and protecting the environment. In this article, we will delve into earth-balling, its procedures, and the significance of preserving trees in urban areas and those affected by government infrastructure projects. The DENR's guidelines for earth-balling are outlined in a memorandum issued b...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

5 Philippine Native Tree Windbreaks that Can Protect Your Crops from Typhoon

Agroforestry

The Philippines is a beautiful archipelago, but it's also a region frequently battered by the relentless forces of nature. The impact on agriculture and livelihoods is significant, with the country experiencing 15 to 20 typhoons yearly. The destructive power of these typhoons, characterized by severe flooding and strong winds, can leave farmers struggling to recover. While we cannot prevent typhoons, we can certainly take measures to mitigate their damage. One of the most effective methods is the installation of natural windbreaks, which can reduce and redirect the impact of strong winds. These windbreaks are rows of trees or shrubs strategically planted to act as barriers against the relentless gusts of typhoon winds. Windbreaks serve a crucial purpose in typhoon-prone regions. They re...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Bamboo Trees Can Help Control Flood

Agroforestry

"Sometimes the Best Things are Right in Front of You" - Gladys Knight We live in a complex world where we often overlook the value of the simple and ordinary. It's easy to get caught up in the grandiose and the elaborate, forgetting that sometimes, the best solutions are right before us. Gladys Knight's words resonate with a message that applies not only to life's philosophical aspects but also to practical challenges, such as flood control in urban areas. The recent heavy rains brought forth the perennial flooding problem in the bustling metropolis of Metro Manila. During this time, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced an innovative approach to flood control: using bamboo as a critical element. This seemingly ordinary plant, found in abundance across the Philippines, has the...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Why Do We Need to Preserve Philippine Native Trees

Agroforestry

"They are ours. They are our heritage. They are our treasure. They are the crowning glory of the Philippine forest." These powerful words from David Castor, the curator and manager of Negros Forest Park, emphasize the vital importance of preserving the native trees of the Philippines. In a world where environmental conservation is becoming increasingly crucial, protecting these native trees is not just an option—it's an imperative. This article will explore the significance of preserving Philippine native trees and their impact on the environment, biodiversity, and our future. The Slow Food Negros Community Food Talks series, as part of Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2020, brings this crucial issue to the forefront. Slow Food International, a global movement committed to preserving local ...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Marcos Jr. Highlights the Economic Potential of Protecting the Philippines’ Forest Cover

Agroforestry

In a recent media interview in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the significance of preserving and nurturing the country's forest cover to foster economic growth and development. He stressed that the Philippines' forest cover is a valuable asset that can be monetized, assigned a peso or dollar value, and actively managed to promote environmental sustainability and economic progress. The State of the Philippines' Forests The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) oversees approximately 15 million hectares of land classified as forestlands. In 2011, the country's forest cover was 6.8 million hectares. However, recent data from 2020, gathered by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), indicates a noteworthy i...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

The Urgency of Reforestation: Saving the Philippines’ Vanishing Forests

Agroforestry

Dr. Rodel Castro's words resonate like an urgent call to action, underscoring the grave environmental challenge that looms large over the Philippines—climate change. He reminds us that the younger generation will bear the burden of this crisis and must shoulder the responsibility of finding solutions. The state of the Philippine forests is a prime example of this impending disaster, a problem that has been festering for decades. Over the years, the Philippines has seen a drastic decline in its forest cover. In the 1920s, forests blanketed 60% of the nation's land area, covering 18 million hectares. This number dropped to 50% (15 million hectares) in the 1950s, and the situation worsened as the years passed. By the 1980s, the country's forest cover had shrunk to 23%, with many islands no...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Top 15 Hardwood Trees in the Philippines to Grow for Profit

Agroforestry

Hardwood trees in the Philippines are becoming rare, especially those native species, because of the lack of interest in forestry. Forestry is not only about logging but also about planting. Tree planting in the Philippines is an enjoyable hobby and a profitable business that can help preserve our depleting ecosystem. Although the commercial forestry business in the Philippines is mainly dominated by Gmelina and Mahogany, other native Philippine forest trees are worth investing in. By planting native hardwood trees in the Philippines, you are making money and helping preserve these threatened tree species. Below are some of the threatened endemic Philippine tree species (except for mahogany, gmelina, and acacia), with their scientific names worth preserving and planting. The follo...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Gmelina vs Mahogany: Which is more Profitable to Grow and Why

Agroforestry

Gmelina and Mahogany Farming. Many people are asking which of the two most common trees, gmelina (gmelina arborea) and mahogany (swietenia macrophylla), is better, and there is no direct and definite answer to this question. But before you decide on what to plant, either for commercial or personal use, it is essential to read this article if you have time, as this could give you the whole idea of which is which. Planting both trees since I can remember more than 30 years ago, I think I have, at least, an authority to compare which is which in terms of several factors you can read below. I am going to tell you a short story first before we go into specifics. Silay City, Negros Occidental, 1984 I was eight years old. Our house was made of bamboo and cogon in a rural barangay in S...