Ecology and Conservation of Acacia senegal in the Rangelands of Luwero and Nakasongola Districts
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Date
2005
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Uganda Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Abstract
Ecology and conservation status of Acacia senegal in the rangelands of Luwero and Nakasongola Districts were assessed
between November 2002 and February 2003. Sixty plots measuring 50 x 50 m were laid at 50 m intervals along six 1,000 m
transects, and the diameter at breast height (DBH), of Acacia .fellegal trees measured. Each tree was visually assessed for
physical damages as health indicators. Maturity class, terrain types and other trees growing together with Acacia senegal
were identified and recorded. A structured questionnaire and interviews were used to collect data on the constr11ints and
opportunities of conserving and managing Acacia Senegal. Data on the population structure, maturity class and stock
density of Acacia senegal were analysed using MINITAB and DECORANA. The population structure of Acacia setiegal
trees was unbalanced, with only 24% young trees (DBH < 8 em). Sixty five percent of trees were old (DBH > 8 em) and 84%
physically damaged. Hills bad significantly (P < 0.05) higher tree density than plains and streams. Thirty-two tree species
were recorded growing together with Acacia senegal in the rangelands and the most common were Acacia mel/ifera, Acacia
hockii, Acacia seyaf, Combretum collillum and Conrhretum mol/e. Grazing livestock, bush fires, land tenure, tree tenure,
pests and diseases were the major challenges to conservation of Acacia senegal in the rangelands. Collaborative conservation
and management plan should be developed to conserve the species. Impacts of livestock grazing, settlement and farming
on regeneration of Acacia senegal should be assessed before developing strategies for management and conservation.
Description
Keywords
Acacia senegal, rangeland, stocking, conservation
Citation
Agea, J. G., Obua, J., Namirembe, S., Buyinza, M., & Waiswa, D. (2005). Ecology and Conservation of Acacia senegal in the Rangelands ofLuwero and Nakasongola Districts. Uganda Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 11, 40-46.