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FORRU has successfully carried out forest restoration, using the framework species method, in upland forests at Ban Mae Sa Mai, but now we are turning our attention to the lowland areas in northern Thailand, formerly covered by deciduous forests. Since human populations are denser at lower elevations, both environmental degradation and the demand for restoration are very high there.
Currently, with support from Thailand’s Biodiversity Research and Training Program we are trying to adapt the framework species method to restore biodiversity in degraded deciduous forests at two contrasting sites: Phrae Campus of Mae Jo University and Mae Ow Watershed Development Project in Lamphun Province. At both sites, natura l forest recovery is severely constrained by 3 major factors: 1) high fire risk, ii) presence of domestic cattle and iii) severely degraded soils. Left: Site on Phrae Campus at Mae Jo University.
Lowland deciduous forest tree species are different from those that have been proved to be successful framework species at higher elevations. The first and most critical step in adapting the framework species methods to any new forest type is tree species selection. Therefore, we used existing data to select “candidate” or potential framework species most suited to the harsh conditions of the lowland sites. This project supports two tree nurseries, which are now growing a total of 64 tree species for testing as framework tree species. Suitable seed germination treatments are being tested and work has begun on devising production schedules to grow the trees ready for planting in the rainy season.
Before tree planting, surveys were carried out to determine the initial condition of the vegetation, bird  communities and soil conditions, so biodiversity levels can be compared between before and after planting. At Mae Ow, 19 species of naturally occurring tree were recorded, whereas only 4 species were found at Mae Jo. In contrast, Mae Jo supported a richer ground flora (100 species) compared with Mae Ow (61 species). Bird species richness at both sites was very similar: 33 and 30 species at Mae Ow and Mae Jo respectively.
Ten rai of experimental plots were established at both sites in July 2006, by planting 15 candidate framework species. Silvicultural treatments tested included filling the planting hole with compost (right) and various fertiliser application regimes. The planting days were successful, with local community, Chiang Mai University students and staff, volunteers and FORRU staff getting their hands dirty.
The next step is monitoring the progress of the planted trees at regular intervals. Application of fertiliser and weeding will also be carried out over the next 9 months.
Framework Species Profiles for Lowland Forests in Northern Thailand
Profiles of the best performing species have been created, following extensive nursery propogation trials and field testing:
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