The Mpingo Conservation Project started out as a research organisation, and priority applied research continues to be an important remit of the project. All the research carried out is tightly focused on addressing current conservation issues associated with mpingo. The current research programme focuses on two key gaps in current knowledge which are vital to fill if mpingo in Kilwa District can be managed sustainably.
First is an estimate of the total current stocks for the district. Extrapolating results of previous work has not been successful. We have refined the methodologies of previous expeditions to produce an extremely rapid surveying technique which is appropriate to estimating stocks over very large areas. Included in the survey are all the main timber species being harvested in the district. The result will put into context the resource assessments of individual village forest areas, and provide a more scientific basis for subsequent quota management. A first full draft report of the stocks assessment is available. >>
Our second priority is the monitoring of growth rates. Because top quality mpingo timber is so dark and dense growth rings are not distinguishable, it is difficult to know the age of any given log. Estimates for the rotation period vary widely, and even the most common, 70-100 years, has its origins in a standard figure for hardwood trees in East Africa. A more accurate picture is required to know what is a sustainable offcut. We have commenced a monitoring programme, the results of which will allow detailed modelling of the impacts of different harvesting regimes. Unfortunately adequate data will not be available until 5-10 years time.
In addition the project sponsors fieldwork of students wishing to write theses on subjects related to mpingo conservation. A list of potential research topics is available upon request. For previous research conducted by the project, see the pages on our student expeditions.
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