Water and element dynamics in Munessa forest ecosystems (Ethiopia) with special emphasis on carbon-sequestration and carbon-dynamics: criteria for sustainable silviculture

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Wolfgang Zech
• Subject Area: Forestry
• Term: from 2004 to 2007
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5420092

With respect to the sustainable management of the remaining natural forest ecosystems and forest plantations, a study will be carried out in the Munessa Forest, SE-Ethiopia, focussing on 1) the evaluation of the water and element dynamics of selected tree species using an ecosystem approach (input, output, soil solution), and on b) the evaluation of the potential for carbon storage, carbon sequestration and carbon dynamics. Both approaches have high priority because the sustainability of forests largely depends on an equilibrium between water and element input and output as well as on carbon stocks and carbon turnover, also with respect to the climate change discussion. The results, together with the findings of the plant physiological, geobotanical and socioeconomic projects will be compiled as a "MANUAL" supporting the Ethiopian Forest Service in its endeavor to establish a resource protecting forest management.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Ethiopia
• Participating Persons: Professor Dr. Masresha Fetene; Dr. Demel Teketay, Ph.D.