በኢፌዲሪ የኢትዮጵያ ደን ልማት

Ethiopian Forestry Development

Development of conservation
plans of priority indigenous
tree species in Ethiopia
A L
Antoine Kalinganire, PhD
I C
HN
EC
T

January 2023
 Provision of Adequate Tree Seed Portfolios:
Transforming the tree seed sector in Ethiopia (PATSPOII), 2022-2025

Development of conservation plans of priority indigenous tree species in Ethiopia

Consultancy Report (first draft)

Antoine Kalinganire, PhD

Senior Tree Scientist, CIFOR-ICRAF, Mali Office, Bamako, Mali

[email protected]

January 2023

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Contents
Acronyms ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
1. Purpose and background of the consultancy ........................................................................................... 4
2. Activities and Expected deliverables from the consultancy as per the ToRs........................................ 5
3. Achievements........................................................................................................................................ 6
3.1. Preliminaries ...................................................................................................................................... 6
3.2. Selection of priority native tree species and areas/regions for the establishment of genetic
conservation ............................................................................................................................................. 8
3.3. Conservation plans for 3 priority native tree species ........................................................................ 8
3.3.1 Juniperus procera....................................................................................................................... 10
3.3.2 Hagenia abyssinica ..................................................................................................................... 14
3.3.3 Cordia africana ........................................................................................................................... 17
3.4 Developing clonal forestry in Ethiopia .............................................................................................. 19
3.4.1 Species trial for Timber Tree species ......................................................................................... 19
3.4.2 Vegetative propagation and management of hedgerows for Eucalyptus globulus .................. 20
4. Issues encountered, and follow-up actions related to the consultancy. ................................................ 20
4.1 Key issues during the consultancy .................................................................................................... 20
4.2 Follow-up actions for consideration ................................................................................................. 20
6. References .............................................................................................................................................. 22
Annexes ....................................................................................................................................................... 24

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Acronyms

m a.s.l: metres above-sea-level

BCO: Breeding Clonal Orchard
BSO: Breeding Seedling Orchard
CIFOR-ICRAF: Center for International Forestry - World Agroforestry
DIDAC: Development inter-churches Aid Commission
EBI: Ethiopia Biodiversity Institute – Ministry of Agriculture
EEFRI: Ethiopia Environment and Forest Research Institute
EFD: Ethiopian Forest Development
EWCA: Ethiopia Wildlife Conservation Authority
GBG: Gullele Botanic Gardens
IUCN: International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
MEFCC: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
NCA: Norwegian Church Aid
NICFI: Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative
NFPA: Natural Forests Priority Areas
OFRWE: Oromia Forest and Wildlife Enterprises
PATSPOII: Provision of Adequate Tree Seed Portfolios: Transforming the tree seed sector in
Ethiopia, 2022-2025
RNE: Royal Norwegian Embassy
SBG: Shone Botanic Gardens
SNNPR: Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Region
SPA: Seed Production Areas
TGR: Tree Genetic Resources
UNESCO: United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization

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1. Purpose and background of the consultancy

PATSPO II is a project to enhance productivity and resilience of Forest Landscape Restoration in

Ethiopia, which is supported by a grant from the Government of Norway through the
Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI). The project is implemented by
the World Agroforestry (the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry - ICRAF) in close
collaboration with the Ethiopian Forest Development (EFD) and other institutions working in
the tree seed sector in Ethiopia. PATSPO II will support the Government of Ethiopia to ensure
forest restoration projects and tree planting actors having high quality seed of the most
important tree species used for forest landscape restoration and all other tree planting
activities in Ethiopia and thereby support Ethiopia in its ambitious programmes of forest
landscape restoration.

A major challenge of forest landscape restoration is that it generally requires the use of planting
material in large quantities of a broad spectrum of genetically diverse, healthy and productive
tree species. PATSPO II has four output areas, which addresses this major challenge by
providing a multiple tree species programme able to provide:

1. Support to improve the governance of the tree seed sector.

2. Knowledge and technical support to the tree seed sector.
3. Maintenance and upgrading of existing seed sources and establishment of new seed
sources; and
4. Improvement of the capacity of the Government and private sector working in management
of tree genetic resources.

Current planting programmes in Ethiopia are dominated by relatively few species. Overreliance
on a few species in large-scale restoration is risky and in the future use of a more diverse set of
species is considered necessary to provide for both economic and ecological resilience. PATSPO
II will promote access to high quality seeds of the most important tree species used for forest
landscape restoration and tree planting activities in Ethiopia, ensuring increased productivity
and delivering higher rates of carbon sequestration whilst enhancing reforestation biodiversity
values through a focus on native tree species.

Ethiopia’s limited native forests continue to be under pressure and in a state of degradation.
Protection and regrowth of such degraded, often secondary forests are one of the most
efficient ways of sequestering carbon while simultaneously maintaining unique forest
biodiversity. The contribution of PATSPO II to this objective, while primarily indirect, is
substantial through new planted forests and trees taking utilization pressure off natural forests.
In situ conservation, of seeds stands of native priority tree species (genetic resources) identified
by PATSPO II (and its predecessor), will therefore be an important component in the national
forest conservation efforts. Moreover, ex situ conservation as conservation stands of
endangered species and farmer groups communities / -associations are also important actors in
the conservation of native tree genetic resources.

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Church- and monastery forests in Ethiopia are holding important genetic resources of native
tree species and it is possible that these forests can play a role in conservation of tree genetic
resource as well as in tree seed procurement. PATSPO II will assess, if these forests eventually
could be registered and used for seed collection and gene conservation. A PATSPO II
consultancy is at present under implementation to assess these options.

This consultancy supports the delivery of output areas number 2 and 4 mentioned above. The
major activities to be supported as per the outputs areas listed above, include the following:

Knowledge and technical support to the tree seed sector:

• Develop plans for, and support implementation, of gene conservation for selected
priority Ethiopian tree species.
• Support key project collaborators in establishing clonal propagation systems, for
selected species, e.g. through cuttings from clonal hedgerows.
• Preparing and publishing a paper on conservation of native trees in Ethiopia – to improve the
capacity of the Government and private sector working in management of tree genetic
resources.

The purpose of the consultancy is to compile insight, data and materials for PATSPO II to
provide knowledge base recommendations on the following issues:

• How to select priority native tree species for genetic conservation.

• In what ways to develop conservation plans for key tree species and guidelines with areas,
regions and institutions.
• Possible means and ways to establishments of genebanks and mother blocks of proven native
trees on farms with farmers groups, farmers association, community associations, and some
selected churches and monasteries,
• How to increase capacity of communities for the management of conservation areas,
genebanks and mother blocks to produce planting materials.

2. Activities and Expected deliverables from the consultancy as per the ToRs.

• Specific tasks during stay in Ethiopia – details are given in Annex 1 of these notes:
• Compile additional background material as available.
• Discuss objectives and approach with the PATSPO II team and prepare a work plan for the
consultancy with timelines and deliverables as per the output.
• Identify, select and visit relevant organisations, institutions, groups and persons.
• Assess compiled information, views and data obtained.
• Prepare preliminary conclusions and recommendations for presentation and discussion with
the PASPO II staff.
• Assess possibilities of developing clonal forestry and advise PATSPO II on the appropriate
approach of the problem (NOT part of the ToRs).

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Three major outputs should be produced:
• Selection, along with key institutions, of suggested priority native tree species and
areas/regions for the establishment of genetic conservation.
• Conservation plans for 2-3 native tree species to Ethiopia.
• Share advisory notes on the status of clonal forestry in Ethiopia and recommend the
appropriate approach to the initiative.

3. Achievements
3.1. Preliminaries
The results of this consultancy are a result of a work as a team following the ToRs (Annex 1), in
consultation PATSPO II management, and with key scientists of the programme and relevant
institutions involved in the conservation of tree genetic resources in Ethiopia. Moreover, field
visits to inspect examples of tree genetic resources conservation areas/units were realised.
Details on various field visits, institutions and people met are given in Annex 2.
This consultancy is a follow-up of an earlier report ‘Pilot strategy for conservation of tree genetic
resources in Ethiopia (Kalinganire, Moestrup and Graudal 2021) where the tree genetic resources
conservation methods and the conservation status of some priority species were briefly
described. The information collected from this report will help with detailed conservation plans
for at least 2-3 priority tree species. Further references to the above report would be
recommended during the implementation of the conservation plans.
The tree genetic resources conservation planning involves the following key steps (Graudal et al
1997) as summarized in Figure 1:
• Selection of priority tree species,
• Assessment of their genetic variation,
• Assessment of their conservation status,
• Identification of populations (geographical distribution, number of populations),
• Identification of conservation measures,
• Planning and organisation of specific conservation activities, and
• Preparation of management guidelines.

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 Figure 1. Schematic model representation of tree genetic resources planning in [Ethiopia]
(Kalinganire et al 2021)

Priority tree species for conservation:

Communities’ needs

National priorities

Conservation approach:

Protected areas

Arboreta
Genetic diversity & variation:
Conservation areas

Species identification Genebanks

Characterization BSOs Monitoring &

Breeding populations Evaluation
Molecular markers
Field trials On farms plantings

Plantations

Conservation status species:

Protected areas

Inventories

Maps – populations

Existing policies
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 3.2. Selection of priority native tree species and areas/regions for the establishment of genetic
conservation
Key persons/institutions have been consulted for the priority tree species to be conserved by
PATSPO II (for details refer to Annex 2). The assessment and recommendations were based on
their use in planting programmes, their commercial values and other functions provided by the
species, and their present conservation status including the species being endangered of
extinction. Vegetation maps for specific species will be considered used for checking for
endangered and/or threatened populations.
The following tree species have been proposed as the top 5 priority species for conservation:
• Juniperus procera (not endangered of extinction, but some populations are endangered,
commercially important etc.)
• Hagenia abyssinica (endangered, economical as a timber tree, medicinal, endemic)
Cordia africana (some genotypes endangered following selective harvesting, economical
etc)
Boswellia papyrifera (endangered, poor harvesting techniques, commercial values etc)
• Afrocarpus falcatus (not endangered, commercial values, alternative timber tree for
plantations).

3.3. Conservation plans for 3 priority native tree species

The proposed conservation plans do consider only the first three species namely: Juniperus
procera, Hagenia abyssinica and Cordia africana (refer to 3.2 above).

Based on conservation status of the species, conservation measures (in situ, ex situ, circa situ)
for the individual species are proposed and conservation plans to be detailed into the final
plans. The different conservation measures will require different kind of management. Specific
interventions required vary with species. As earlier discussed, the management/conservation of
tree genetic resources in Ethiopia need to consider the on-going initiatives and get involved (in)
such schemes and be a multidisciplinary ecosystem approach.

A successful gene conservation program would involve key stakeholders involved in the tree
genetic resources conservation arena, including: communities, policy makers, governments and
research institutions, civil society, donors, private sector etc. Regarding the conservation
methods, these vary according to the specific objectives of conservation, and the distribution
and biological nature of the material to be conserved (e.g. Dawson et al 2013, Graudal et al
1997, Thomson 2022). Conservation of tree genetic resources can be made according to in situ,
circa situm or ex situ approaches. Conservation of genetic resources requires simultaneous use
of several methods.

The on-going conservation approaches to be considered may include:

In situ conservation:

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• National Parks - Ethiopia Wildlife Conservation Authority
• Biosphere Reserves (Five reserves - Ethiopia Biodiversity Institute – Ministry of
Agriculture/UNESCO)
• Biodiversity Conservation Units (Ethiopia Biodiversity Institute) in natural forests and
protected areas
• Natural Forests Priority Areas (NFPA) – Regional States (to be defined later by EFD)
• Arboreta

Ex situ Conservation Scheme:

• Genetic Biodiversity Conservation Stands – Field genebanks
• Seed genebanks

Circa situm conservation:

• Agroforestry systems

Key conservation approaches are given per species. Management options for each type of
conservation and involved institutions are detailed for each species. Vegetation maps (e.g. EBI,
Kindt/Pedercini, Jens-Peter and Lars) showing the natural distribution areas of the species,
respective regions and potential endangered populations are given in the report. Conservation
options/plans are suggested for the priority species.

Depending on available information, each tree species is expected to have its genetic variation
and conservation status assessed. Then the relevant conservation measures are proposed and
briefly described and a simple provisional implementation plan for the proposed conservation
measures provided. Besides evaluation of ecological factors, field trials and genetic makers, if
available, would provide information to propose appropriate conservation approaches for
target species. Moreover, the conservation status of each species is defined based on their
present status in the vegetation maps, where they occur and by using local expert knowledge.
An Ethiopian vegetation map showing various vegetation types is given in Figure 2, (and may
help in the definition of in situ conservation areas – refer at individual species maps).

As per Graudal et al (1997 and 2014) the conservation status refers to the present state of the
genetic resources and the risk of future erosion of important genetic resources. Existing threats
to existing genetic resources include mainly, but not exhaustive, the following: illegal logging,
genetic erosion/selective logging, expansion of agriculture. Approximate geographic
distribution of various target species may be updated as part of the implementation plan.
Given the speed with which species, and especially intraspecific variations are being lost there
is a need to identify the conservation status of the priority tree species and to conserve and
mobilize their remaining intraspecific variation for future use in plantations/restoration and
other tree-planting programmes (Graudal et al 2014, Thomson 2022). The conservation
measures of the following key species are discussed: Juniperus procera, Hagenia abyssinica and
Cordia africana (refer to 3.2 above).

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Figure 2. Natural vegetation types of Ethiopia (Fabio Pedercini 2022)

3.3.1 Juniperus procera

The species:
Juniperus procera Hochst. ex Endl. (Cupressaceae family) is the world’s largest juniper, but is
currently threatened owing to multiple anthropogenic factors.

Conservation status and (conservation) measures of the species (refer to Kalinganire et al

2021)
The species is found in the undifferentiated and dry Afromontane forest types, but also in
forests transitional between dry Afromontane forest and semi-evergreen bushland and thicket
(Couralet and Bakamwesiga 2008). It is a highlands species commonly found between 1800 and
2800 m altitude, but occurs at a broader range of 1000-3500 m, with annual temperature range
from 50C to 200C. Average annual rainfall 1000 -1400mm. Juniperus procera does best in high-
rainfall areas but can survive quite under dry conditions once established. It performs well in

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Moist and wet Weyna Dega and Dega agroclimatic zones (Bekele-Tesemma et al 2007). In the
Ethiopian highlands J. procera grows naturally in pure stands or mixed with Afrocarpus falcatus
(Thunb.) R. Br. ex Mirb. in lower altitudes (Negash 2002) and with Hagenia abyssinica at higher
altitudes (Umer et al 2007).

The species grows in small scattered populations in most areas. Consequently, it is one of the
tree species that has been subjected to extensive logging (Negash 2002), leading its status to
endangered in most provenances and mentioned as a threatened species in its entire habitat
(IUCN 2009). Apart from over-exploitation, changing land use patterns, browsing by wild
animals and increasing populations of fast-growing exotic species are contributing to the
decline of the species (Couralet and Bakamwesiga 2008). In situ conservation in natural areas
targeting the Afromontane forests, is one of the options, but may be complicated as the species
has little natural regeneration as young seedlings are very light-demanding. Although
disconnected and fragmented, the approach should consider all provenances wherever
possible. J. procera is known to grow in Ethiopia as low as 1,700 m around Yabelo and as high
as over 3,300 m in the Bale Mountains (Umer et al 2007).

In situ conservation: Conservation in natural areas targeting the Afromontane forests, is one of
the options, but may be complicated as the species has little natural regeneration as young
seedlings are very light-demanding. Although disconnected and fragmented, the approach
should consider all provenances wherever possible. J. procera is known to grow in Ethiopia as
low as 1,700 m around Yabelo and as high as over 3,300 m in the Bale Mountains (Umer et al
2007). Thus, in situ conservation needs to consider lower and high-altitudes populations.

Options to be considered for in situ conservation include populations in: National Parks
(National Parks Authority), Biosphere Reserves (EBI), Church Forests (DICAC) and Conservation
Units (EBI). National Parks with species occurrences are given on Figure 2. Biosphere Reserves
in Ethiopia are given on Fig 3 and EBI Conservation Unit (inseted). It is suggested to contact
institutions in-charge for each approach to discuss populations locations and conservation
modalities for the species. Although disconnected and fragmented, the approaches should
consider all provenances wherever possible. In situ conservation needs to consider lower and
high-altitudes populations. Figure 4 shows the potential Natural Vegetation types for Juniperus
procera. Moreover, the in situ conservation of the species will help conserving other key species
associated, such species include, but not exclusively: Afrocarpus falcatus and Hagenia
abyssinica

The following in situ conservation options are recommended for Juniperus procera: EBI
conservation units and DICAC Church Forests. Modalities, localities and populations to be
defined.

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Fig 3: Biosphere Reserves in Ethiopia (EBI/UNESCO)

Conservation Units Map showing areas covered by EBI conservation schemes in Ethiopia are
herewith inserted.

Ethiopian
Biodiversity Institute In situ site maps.pdf

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Figure 4: Potential Natural Vegetation types with Juniperus procera (Fabio Pedercini 2022)

Ex situ conservation:
Genetic conservation stands: Conservation through ‘genetic conservation stands’ of selected
genotypes is another practical genetic conservation strategy for the species. Seed collections
targeting individual provenances, especially vulnerable sources, would help with the
establishment of genetic conservation stands.

Provenance, endangered sources, for conservations stands of at least 2 ha each, would be

established on at least 2 different sites.

Seed collections targeting the maximum number of trees (e.g. 200 trees) per population.
Discussions with Ethiopian scientists confirmed Yabello and Negelle Southern Oromia Lowlands

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populations as priorities for conservation. One ha of each population would be established per
site, i.e. at least a total of 2 ha per population established as genetic conservation stands
established at both Gullele Botanic Gardens and Wondo Genet Botanic Gardens. The species is
dioecious, male:female ratio to be considered and monitored in the conservation stand.
Genetic conservation stands would consider the male:female ratio, especially during the
technical thinning.

It is recommended to contact and confirm availability of land at both Botanic Gardens (Gullele
and Wondo Genet) for the establishment of genetic conservation stands of the species.

Seed banks: Seed collection of Yabello and Negelle populations will be done for the
establishment of genetic conservation stands. Remaining seed will be stored in seed banks at
the National Tree Seed Center. Thus, such collections would be held in seed banks parallel to
the field genetic stands.

3.3.2 Hagenia abyssinica

The species:
Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F. Gmel is a wind-pollinated and wind-dispersed broadleaved
dioecious tree species that belongs to the family Rosaceae. The species is currently threatened
owing to high timber demand.

Conservation status and (conservation) measures of the species

The species is found in upland rainforest at even higher altitudes than bamboo and may be the
last tree before moorland; naturally often the dominant tree of the woodland zone just above
the mountain bamboo. Occasionally found also at lower altitudes. Formerly one of the
commonest high-altitude rain forest trees in Ethiopia. Now usually only scattered trees remain
in Moist and Wet Weyna Dega and Dega agroclimatic zones. Spread in nearly all regions, within
an altitudinal range of (1,850) 2,300–3,300 (3700) m.a.s.l (Feyissa et al, 2005, Bekele-Tesemma
2007, Ayele et al 2017). it is one of the most dominant and ecologically important tree species
in the Gole Forest. Similarly, at Boda dry evergreen mountain forest, West Shewa of Ethiopia,
Hagenia abyssinica with Afrocarpus falcatus and Juniperus procera are the dominant dry
evergreen trees in the montane forest (Bekele-Tesemma 2007). Hagenia abyssinica is under
high risk of loss following high timber demand and poor natural regeneration (Ayele et al 2017),
and need a high conservation priority. Therefore, these situations call for conservation actions.
Although Feyissa et al (2007) stated that recent anthropogenic disturbances have not yet had
much impact on H. abyssinica population genetic parameters, conservation approaches should
target populations that are genetically most diverse as per e.g. Ayele et al (2017) recent genetic
study

In situ conservation:
Similarly, as for Juniperus procera, conservation in natural areas targeting the Afromontane
forests, is one of the options. Approaches to be defined may include populations in National
Parks, Biosphere Reserves, Church Forests and EBI Conservation Units. Conservation in natural
14
areas targeting the Afromontane forests, is one of the options. The in situ conservation needs
to consider lower and high-altitudes populations. The in situ approach in the highlands would
encompass other priority species such Afrocarpus falcatus and Juniperus procera, However, as
stated by Ayele et al (2017), priority populations for in situ conservation for the species are
Bonga, Kaffa, SNNPRS (with the largest natural regeneration and high genetic diversity) and
Dinsho, Bale, Oromia (highest genetic diversity, but no natural regeneration). Therefore, both
populations should be considered under this approach.

Practically, the in situ conservation may include populations located in: National Parks (National
Parks Authority), Biosphere Reserves (EBI), Church Forests (DICAC) and Conservation Units
(EBI). National Parks with H. abyssinica occurrences are given on Figure 5. Biosphere Reserves
in Ethiopia are given on Fig 3 (EBI). It is suggested to contact institutions in-charge for each
option to discuss populations locations and conservation modalities for the species.

The following in situ conservation options are recommended for Hagenia abyssinica: National
Parks, and EBI conservation units. Modalities, localities and populations to be defined.

Figure 5: Natural Vegetation types with Hagenia abyssinica (Fabio Pedercini 2022)

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Ex situ conservation:
Genetic conservation stands: Seed collections targeting endangered provenances/sources,
would help with the establishment of ‘genetic conservation stands’. Provenance conservations
stands of at least 2 ha each, would be established on at least 2 different sites. The species is
performing better at Bale, South-West and at Menagesha Forest (Sebssebe Pers Comm). It is
suggested to prioritize Dinsho, Bale (Oromia) populations for early genetic conservation stands
of Hagenia abyssinica. As earlier stated Dinsho population has the highest genetic diversity,
but with no natural regeneration. Thus, it needs urgent conservation. However, if resources
avail both Bonga and Dinsho populations are targeted for ex situ conservation.

Populations to be fully sampled (at least 200 trees), seed collected, and genetic conservation
stands of at least 2-5 ha (or more) to be established in secure areas such as Botanic Gardens.
One ha of each population would be established per site, i.e. at least a total of 2 ha per
population done and established as genetic conservation stands at both Botanic Gardens, e.g.
Gullele Botanic Gardens and Wondo Genet Botanic Gardens. The species is dioecious,
male:female ratio to be considered and monitored in the conservation stand. Genetic
conservation stands would consider the male:female ratio.

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Seed banks: Seed of Hagenia abyssinica are collected for ex situ conservation stands
populations will be done for the establishment of genetic conservation stands. Remaining seed
will be stored in seed banks at the National Tree Seed Center. Thus, such collections would be
held in seed banks parallel to the field genetic stands.

3.3.3 Cordia africana

The species:
Cordia africana Lam (Syn. Cordia abyssinica R.Br., C. ubanghensis Chev.) (Boraginaceae family).

Conservation status and (conservation) measures of the species:

The species is widespread in broadleaved Afromontane rainforests, undifferentiated (dry)
Afromontane forests (‘mixed Podocarpus forest’) and in riverine forests as well as in the
western lowlands (Bekele-Tesemma 2007). Generally, the species grows in areas with altitudes
between 550 and 2,600 m a.s.l. and annual rainfall of 700 to 2,000 mm. It is an early colonizer
in forest re-growth and is often found along forest margins; it often regenerates in clearings
and forest gaps (Derero et al 2011). The current distribution, the habitats and the populations
of Cordia africana are severely affected by deforestation, fragmentation and selective logging.
The northern part of the country has been extremely deforested; in the north, the species is
currently only represented by scattered trees on farmlands, in and around homesteads, church
compounds and graveyards and a few spots where a relatively continuous forest exists (Derero
et al 2011). As per Bekele-Tesemma (2007), the species grows well in Dry, Moist and Wet
Weyna Dega agroclimatic zones, in all regions, 900-2,500m. Figure 5 shows its natural
occurrences in Ethiopia.

Derero et al (2011) indicate that patterns of natural diversity and differentiation are not yet
severely affected although C. africana is rapidly declining. Since scattered populations and
those under intense management in coffee plantations are not less variable than continuous
populations, conservation of genetic resources of C. africana must not be confined to a few
natural populations in continuous forests.

Therefore, increasing efforts need to be deployed at Cordia africana genetic conservation. The
options would include in situ conservation in natural areas targeting the (dry) Afromontane
Forest and the riverine forests, and ex situ conservation through genetic conservation stands of
selected populations.

In situ conservation:
The species is widespread in broadleaved Afromontane rainforests, undifferentiated dry
Afromontane forests and in riverine forests as well in the western lowlands (refer to Figure 6
for details). Habitats are severely affected by deforestation, fragmentation and selective logging
(genetic erosion of the species). Scattered populations and those under intense management in
coffee plantations are not less variable than continuous populations, conservation must not be
confined to a few natural populations in continuous forests. The strategy should target the (dry)

17
Afromontane Forests and the Riverine forests. Proposed options include populations in
National Parks (refer Fig. 6), and Church Forests.

Figure 6. Natural Vegetation types with Cordia africana (Fabio Pedercini 2022)

It is suggested to contact institutions in-charge for each option to discuss populations locations
and conservation modalities for the species. The following in situ conservation options are
recommended for C. africana: National Parks, and Church Forests. Modalities, localities and
populations to be defined.

Ex situ conservation:
Conservation through genetic conservation stands of endangered/threatened populations is
more practical. Bonga (Kaffa) populations in South-West) will be fully sampled (at least 200
trees), seed collected, and genetic conservation stands of at least 2-5 ha (or more) to be
established in secure areas in two different sites namely Wondo Genet and Shone Botanic
Gardens. Land and establishment modalities to be negotiated with Botanic Gardens
administrations. The silviculture requirements, e.g. windbreaks or nursing trees, of the species
needs to be considered.

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Moreover, circa situm conservation on-farms in agroforestry systems especially around the
natural occurrences of the species, and in coffee plantations, are recommended. Note that the
maintenance of populations on-farms (circa situm approach) is also feasible, including
intensively used coffee plantations. Such approach would be within the species’ native
geographical range. However, the on-farm approach is unsustainable as there is no guarantee
of keeping such trees unused.

Seed banks: Seed of Cordia africana are collected for ex situ conservation stands populations
will be done for the establishment of genetic conservation stands. Remaining seed will be
stored in seed banks at the National Tree Seed Center. Thus, such collections would be held in
seed banks parallel to the field genetic stands.

3.4 Developing clonal forestry in Ethiopia

The principal reason for using vegetative propagation is to capture and fix desirable traits, or
combinations of traits, of individual trees. Higher yields and better products are expected. The
adapted accessions are propagated vegetatively to maintain their desired characteristics, which
would, if sexually propagated, be diluted over time. To date, in Ethiopia, there is not yet
selected highly performing clones apt for clonal forestry.

The Forest Enterprises, specifically Oromia Forest and Wildlife Enterprises (OFWE) is more
interested with alternative timber tree species to go along with traditional plantation species,
e.g. Cupressus lusitanica. Therefore, PATSPO II will respond to the request of the Forest
Enterprises and two options are advised: Establishment of a species-provenance trial of timber
tree species and a trial on vegetative propagation and management of hedgerows of a popular
and successful gum species – Eucalyptus globulus subsp. globulus.

3.4.1 Species trial for Timber Tree species

For plantations, the following timber tree species are recommended to OFWE for planting. Such
species are already established in BSOs, assessed and highly productive: Grevillea robusta,
Eucalyptus grandis, Afrocarpus falcatus, Juniperus procera, Cordia africana, Hagenia abyssinica,
Olea africana, Pinus patula and Eucalyptus camaldulensis. Germplasm, seeds and seedlings,
may be available in the short-term from the established BSOs.

For more timber tree species alternative to Cupressus lusitanica, it is recommended to establish
a species - provenance trial for timber tree species. The trial would be established on 2
different sites between 1500 m and 3000 m a.s.l (1 trial in the Highlands and 1 trial in the
Midlands/Lowlands). Seed collections and/or imports would be needed for the trial as follows:
10 species and 2 provenances per species. Spacing 2.0 x 2.0 m, plot unit 36 trees (6x6). The
total area would be about 1ha per site. The following tree species would be considered for the
trial: Afrocarpus falcatus, Olea hochteterii, Olea africana, Cedrela odorata, Grevillea robusta,
Cordia alliodora, Eucalyptus deglupta, Prunus africana, Pouteria adolfi-fiedrechii, and Pinus

19
maximinoi. The field protocol of such a trial to be proposed in a separate report. The trial is
established and managed by an EFD Department.

3.4.2 Vegetative propagation and management of hedgerows for Eucalyptus globulus

A maximum of 5-10 clones of Eucalyptus globulus would selected from existing BSOs and
cuttings collected and grown at Gullele Botanic Gardens in collaboration with the University of
Addis Abeba (refer to Prof Sebsebe Demessew). Then cuttings would be managed in hedgerows
for further vegetative propagation of the species – as a demonstration for a ‘Clonal Forestry’
approach. Names of progenies to be collected for vevetative propagation, the field protocol of
vegetative propagation and hedgerows are to be proposed in a separate report. The trial is
managed by an GBG and the University of Addis Abeba.

4. Issues encountered, and follow-up actions related to the consultancy.

4.1 Key issues during the consultancy
• Access to conservation sites in the natural forests was denied for security reasons.
• Further understanding of the organisation and management of Church Forests, Conservation
Units (EBI) is needed if further collaboration on (in situ) conservation is desired, ref. consultancy
report from Jens-Peter, Alice and Wubalem.
• PATSPO to decide on the next plans on the establishment of conservation stands in Ethiopia as
part of the program. The sooner the better for planning 2022-2025 conservation activities.

4.2 Follow-up actions for consideration

• Better understanding of the organisation and management of Church Forests in the country.
Therefore, get a final consultancy report on Church Forests by Jens-Peter Lillesø et al. for more
details for the establishment of in situ conservation of key priority tree species. .
• Review existing in situ conservation schemes with concerned institutions for the best approach
and definition of best areas /locations for the genetic conservation of priority tree species.
• Putting in place plans for the establishment of genetic conservation stands as part of the
conservation of genetic resources for indigenous tree species in Ethiopia. Plans to be finalised
in Sept 2023, after a consultation trip discussing with key institutions involved in the
conservation of tree species in Ethiopia.
• Land Negotiations for genetic conservation stands for the 3-priority species, a minimum of 6.5
ha as follows:
o Gullele Botanic Gardens: J. procera (1ha), H. abyssinica (1ha), Hedgerows (0.5ha)
o Wondo Genet Gardens: J. procera (1ha), H. abyssinica (1 ha), Cordia africana (1 ha)
o Shone Botanic Gardens: C. africana (1 ha)
• Ethiopian institutions have problems of sawing eucalypts trees (E. grandis, E. camaldulensis, E.
globulus etc.) for timber production. Link OFRWE to institutions specialised is sawing gum trees
for lumber production, and willing to share their experiences in sawing (machinery and sawing
techniques), seasoning eucalypts timber.

20
• Establish a multi-sites species trial for timber production in replacement of Cupressus lusitanic,
popular tree species used in plantations. Trial to recommend alternative timber tree species for
plantations.
• Hedgerows of Eucalyptus globulus to be installed as part of the initiation of clonal forestry in the
country. Such hedgerows would serve as demonstrations for growers.

21
6. References
Akale AH, Alemu MW, Asmamaw MB. 2019. Homegarden plants in Legambo District (Chiro Kebele)
South Wollo, Ethiopia: Future implication for food security and rehabilitation program. African
Journal of Plant Science 13(9):246-254.
Ayele TB, Gailing O, Finkeldey R. 2017. Spatial distribution of genetic diversity in populations of
Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F. Gmel from Ethiopia. Annals of Forest Research 60(1).
Bekele-Tesemma A. 2007. Useful trees of Ethiopia: identification, propagation and management in
17 agroecological zones. Nairobi: RELMA in ICRAF Project, 552p.
Couralet C, Bakamwesiga H. 2008. Juniperus procera Hocht. Ex Endl. In: Louppe D, Oteng-Amoako
AA and Brink M. (Editors). Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 7(1). Timbers 1. PROTA Foundation.
Wageningen, Netherlands/Backhuys Publishers, Leiden, Netherlands/CTA, Wagenningen,
Netherlands. Pp. 320 – 324.
Dawson IK, Guariguata MR, Loo J, Weber JC, Lengkeek A, Bush D, Cornelius J, Guarino L, Kindt R,
Orwa C, Russell J, Jamnadass R. 2013. What is the relevance of smallholders’ agroforestry systems
for conserving tropical tree species and genetic diversity in circa situm, in situ and ex situ settings?
A review. Biodiversity and Conservation: 22:301–324. DOI 10.1007/s10531-012-0429-5.
Umer M, Lamb HF, Bonnefill R, Le′zin AM, Tierceline JJ, Gibert E, Cazet JP, Watrin J. 2007. Late
Pleistocene and Holocene vegetation history of the Bale Mountains, Ethiopia. Quat Sci Rev
26:2229–2246.
Feyissa T, Welander M, Negash L 2005. In vitro regeneration of Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F.
Gmel. (Rosaceae) from leaf explants. Plant Cell Report 24:392-400.
Feyissa T, Nybom H, Bartish IV, Welander M. 2007. Analysis of genetic diversity in the endangered
tropical tree species Hagenia abyssinica using ISSR Markers. Genet Resourc Crop Evol 54:947-958.
Graudal L, Aravanopoulos F, Bennadji Z, Changtragoon S, Fady B, Kjær ED, Loo J, Ramamonjisoa L,
Vendramin GG. 2014. Global to local genetic diversity indicators of evolutionary potential in tree
species within and outside forests. Forest Ecology and Management, 333: 35–51.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2014.05.002
Graudal L, Kjaer E, Tonsen A, Larsen AB. 1997. Planning national programmes for conservation of
forest genetic resources. Technical Note No. 48. Danida Forest Seed Centre. Humlebaek,
Denmark.
Kalinganire A, Moestrup S, Graudal L. 2021. Pilot Strategy for Conservation of tree genetic
resources in Ethiopia. PATSPO. Unpublished Report.
Kindt R, van Breugel P, Lillesø, J-PB, Bingham M, Demissew S, Dudley C, Friis I, Gachathi F, Kalema J,
Mbago F. 2011. Volume 4: Description and Tree Species Composition for Woodland and Wooded

22
Grassland Potential Natural Vegetation Types. https://static-
curis.ku.dk/portal/files/36077559/VECEA_Volume3_Woodlands.pdf
Negash L. 2002. Successful vegetative propagation techniques for threatened African Pencil Cedar
(Juniperus procera Hochst.ex Endl.). For Ecol Manag 161:53–64.
Thomson LAJ 2022. Conserving and Unsing Tree Diversity for Global Climate Change Adatation and
Food Systems Resilience. Unpublished Report to the Global Crop Diversity Trust, CIFOR-ICRAF and
BGCI.
Umer M, Lamb HF, Bonnefill R, Le′zin AM, Tierceline JJ, Gibert E, Cazet JP, Watrin J. 2007. Late
Pleistocene and Holocene vegetation history of the Bale Mountains, Ethiopia. Quat Sci Rev
26:2229–2246

23
Annexes

Annex 1: Provision of Adequate Tree Seed Portfolios – transforming the tree seed sector in
Ethiopia (PATSPO II), 2022-2025

TERMS OF REFERENCE
Consultancy on the development of conservation plans of priority indigenous tree species along with
Ethiopian key conservation institutions; and modalities for the expansion of genebanks and mother
blocks on farms with communities on PATSPO II project area.

October - December 2022

1. BACKGROUND
PATSPO II is a project to enhance productivity and resilience of Forest Landscape Restoration in
Ethiopia, which is supported by a grant from the Government of Norway through the Norwegian
International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI). The project is implemented by the World
Agroforestry (the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry - ICRAF) in close collaboration
with the Ethiopian Forest Development (EFD) and other institutions working in the tree seed sector
in Ethiopia. PATSPO II is a four-year project 2022 – 2025 based on an agreement between the Royal
Norwegian Embassy in Ethiopia (RNE) and ICRAF.

PATSPO II will support the Government of Ethiopia to ensure forest restoration projects and tree
planting actors having high quality seed of the most important tree species used for forest landscape
restoration and all other tree planting activities in Ethiopia and thereby support Ethiopia in its
ambitious programmes of forest landscape restoration.

A major challenge of forest landscape restoration is that it generally requires the use of planting
material in large quantities of a broad spectrum of genetically diverse, healthy and productive tree
species.

PATSPO II has four output areas, which addresses this major challenge by providing a multiple tree
species programme able to provide:

1. Support to improve the governance of the tree seed sector;

2. Knowledge and technical support to the tree seed sector;
3. Maintenance and upgrading of existing seed sources and establishment of new seed sources;
and
4. Improvement of the capacity of the Government and private sector working in management of
tree genetic resources.

Current planting programmes in Ethiopia are dominated by relatively few species. Overreliance on
a few species in large-scale restoration is risky and in the future use of a more diverse set of species
is considered necessary to provide for both economic and ecological resilience. PATSPO II will
promote access to high quality seeds of the most important tree species used for forest landscape

24
restoration and tree planting activities in Ethiopia, ensuring increased productivity and delivering
higher rates of carbon sequestration whilst enhancing reforestation biodiversity values through a
focus on indigenous tree species.

Ethiopia’s limited native forests continue to be under pressure and in a state of degradation.
Protection and regrowth of such degraded, often secondary forests are one of the most efficient
ways of sequestering carbon while simultaneously maintaining unique forest biodiversity. The
contribution of PATSPO II to this objective while primarily indirect, is substantial through new
planted forests and trees taking utilization pressure off natural forests. In situ conservation, of seeds
stands of indigenous priority tree species (genetic resources) identified by PATSPO II (and its
predecessor), will therefore be an important component in the national forest conservation efforts.
Moreover, farmer groups communities / -associations are important actors in the conservation of
native tree genetic resources.

Church- and monastery forests in Ethiopia are holding important genetic resources of indigenous
tree species and it is likely that these forests can play a role in conservation of tree genetic resource
as well as in tree seed procurement. PATSPO II will assess, if these forests eventually could be
registered and used for seed collection and gene conservation.

The consultancy supports the delivery of output areas number 2 and 4 mentioned above. The major
activities to be supported as per the outputs areas listed above, include the following:

Knowledge and technical support to the tree seed sector:

• Develop plans for, and support implementation, of gene conservation for selected
priority Ethiopian tree species.
• Support key project collaborators in establishing clonal propagation systems, for
selected species, e.g. through cuttings from clonal hedgerows.

Improvement of the capacity of the Government and private sector working in management of tree
genetic resources:
• Preparing and publishing a paper on conservation of native trees in Ethiopia

2. OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the consultancy is to compile insight, data and materials for PATSPO II to provide
knowledge base recommendations on the following issues:

• How to select priority native tree species for genetic conservation,

• In what ways to develop conservation plans for key tree species and guidelines with areas,
regions and institutions,
• Possible means and ways to establishments of genebanks and mother blocks of proven native
trees on farms with farmers groups, farmers association, community associations, and some
selected churches and monasteries,

25
• How to increase capacity of communities for the management of conservation areas,
genebanks and mother blocks to produce planting materials.

3. METHOD OF WORK

The consultant and relevant resource persons from PATSPO II will work as a team following the TOR
in consultation with the Project Management Team (PMT). The work will include reading of relevant
reports and documents provided by PATSPO II, visits to relevant institutions, organizations and
farmer groups to compile knowledge, opinions and information needed to assess and provide
recommendations on the issues mentioned under background and objectives above.
The consultant will work from the PATSPO/ICRAF Office in Addis Ababa with field visits as required,
and ICRAF Mali Office, Bamako and/or CSIRO Office, Black Mts. Canberra. A briefing meeting will be
held with the PATSPO II staff in the beginning of the consultancy. A debriefing meeting will be
arranged at the end for the consultant to present the preliminary findings and conclusions for
comments by the PATSPO II staff.

4. OUTPUTS
Four short reports and training materials, on the following topics, are the outputs from the
consultancy. The timing/delivery periods given into brackets:

• Selection, along with key institutions, of priority native tree species and areas/regions for the
establishment of genetic conservation (October - November 2022).
• Conservation plans for 2-3 indigenous tree species to Ethiopia (November – December 2022).
• Modality and establishment of genebanks and mother blocks for proven native trees on farms
for farmers/communities in appropriate areas/regions (October – November 2022).

The reports will in general be short (10 pages maximum each) and include the following main
sections: i) Introduction and background, ii) Present situation; iii) Observations and findings and iv)
Conclusions and recommendations. The conservation plans will include more detailed action plans.

5. ACTIVITIES

The consultant will, in collaboration with the technical PATSPO II staff, undertake the following
specific tasks for each of the issues referred to in section 3 (methodology). Read the background
material provided by PATSPO II.
1. Compile additional background material as available.
2. Discuss objective and approach with the PATSPO II team and prepare a work plan for the
consultancy with time lines and deliverables as per the output.
3. Identify, select and visit relevant organisations, institutions, groups and persons.
4. Assess compiled information, views and data obtained.
5. Prepare preliminary conclusions and recommendations for presentation and discussion with
the PATSPO II staff.
6. Prepare four reports and training materials as described in section 4 above.

26
6. STAFFING AND QUALITICATIONS

The team will consist of Dr Antoine Kalinganire, CIFOR-ICRAF Senior Tree Scientist, expert in tree
domestication, including fruit trees and the biodiversity conservation, and 1-2 relevant technical
PATSPO II staff (e.g. seed source officer, seed procurement officer and regional tree seed centre
coordinators).

The consultant team is familiar with all aspect of PATSPO II, mother block establishment and have
substantial field and theoretical experience in the subject matter, including the structure of the tree
seed sector in Ethiopia as well as tree seed procurement and conservation of tree genetic resources.

7. TIMING AND DURATION OF THE ASSIGNMENT

The consultancy of 1.5 months will be implemented during mid-October to mid-December 2022, as
indicated in Section 4 above.

The one and half (1.5) months will include 3 weeks preparation and reporting in Australia, and 3
weeks stay in Ethiopia from 7 to 25 November, on collection of information, select priority tree
species and areas/regions for conservation of genetic resources along with relevant Ethiopian
institutions.

8. REPORTING
The consultant will prepare and submit four (4) short reports and training materials (number to be
defined) on the following topics mentioned in section 4 of the TOR:

A short debriefing report/note, ref. annex 1. The consultant will present and discuss the contents of
the reports with the PATSPO II PMT before finalization. PATSPO II will arrange for the design and
publishing of the reports.

9. SUPPORT FROM PATSPO II

PATSPO II will arrange for office space and accommodation in Addis Ababa and support the
consultants in organizing time schedule and meeting plans as well as domestic transport as required.
Relevant background information will be made available.
PATSPO II September 2022.

27
Annex 2: Provisional Travel Plan for a Consultancy on the ‘Development of conservation plans of
priority indigenous tree species’, November 2022.

Date Institution to be visited Objectives of the visit Person to contact

7 Arrival in Addis Check-in Saro-Maria Hotel Sime Mekdes
8 CIFOR-ICRAF Ethiopia • Discussions on consultancy objectives Jens-Peter Barnekow
• Exchange of documents & ideas Lillesø/Wubalem/Abrham
• Set-up appointments
Sime Mekdes & Abrham
9 CIFOR-ICRAF Ethiopia • Vegetation & diversity maps? Fabio Pedercini
• Final appointments with external Sime Mekdes
institutions
10 Menagesha Forest Field visit to church forests Lillesø/Wubalem/Alice/Abrham
11 • Ethiopian Biodiversity • Priority Species Abera Seyum
Institute (EBI) • Conservation options

12-13 Week-end Literature review et al.

14 • CIFOR-ICRAF Ethiopia • Key issues with church forests Jens-Peter, Wubalem, Alice
• Update consultancy Soren Moestrup
objectives/outputs Niguse Hagazi
• Debriefing on the objectives
• Ethiopia Forest consultancy Fabio Pedercini
Development (EFD) • Regions of conservation for priority Tolera Motuma
species
• Policy issues – EFD new political
directions
• Conservations options
• Review Wondo Genet College tree
genetic conservations activities
• Clonal Forestry
15 • University of Addis Ababa • Vegetation Maps Prof Sebsebe Demessew
• Priority Species
• Regions of conservation
• Gullele Botanic Gardens • Botanic Gardens general Gutama Moroda
(GBG) management
16 Oromia Forest and Wildlife • Clonal Forestry objectives and targets Kedir Nino
Enterprises (OFWE) • Priority Species for clonal forestry
17 -18 Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute Field visit to Shashemene Conservation Shashemene EBI Team
(EBI) Unit (Botanical Garden, Community
Conservation Units?)
19-20 Week-end Literature review, Summaries, reviews et.
21 • CIFOR-ICRAF Ethiopia • General comments & Church Forests Jens-Peter, Wubalem et al.
• General discussions CIFOR-ICRAF Team?

• Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) Yemane Sahle

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 • Conservation options at Church
Forests
• Orthodox Church – • General management of church Tewaney Seifesellassie
Development inter-churches Forests
Aid Commission (DICAC) • Sustainability of church forests

22 • CIFOR-ICRAF Ethiopia • Gender/Communities issues with Alice Karanja

Office genetic conservation /Stepha McMullin
• Guided Field Visit – General Prof Sebsebe Demessew &
• Gullele Botanic Gardens management, species and space Gutama Moroda
(GBG) availability
23 Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute • Conservation Units Abera Seyum
(EBI) • Ethiopia Biosphere Reserves
24 CIFOR-ICRAF Ethiopia • Timber tree species Abeyney Dorero
• Debriefing to PATSPOII Management Soren Moestrup et al.
25 Departure to Canberra Reporting

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 Phone: 251-116172000
ext. 2491
Email:[email protected]

Website: https://www.worldagroforestry.org/project/provision-adequate-tree-seed-portfolio-ethiopia