Showing papers in "Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in 2015"

Evaluation of Plant Growth, Yield and Yield Attributes of Biofield Energy Treated Mustard (Brassica juncea) and Chick Pea (Cicer arietinum) Seeds

Abstract: The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of Mr. Trivedi’s biofield energy treatment on mustard (Brassica juncea) and chick pea (Cicer arietinum) for their growth, yield, and yield attributes. Both the samples were divided into two groups. One group was remained as untreated and coded as control, while the other group (both seed and plot) was subjected to Mr. Trivedi’s biofield energy treatment and referred as the treated. The result showed the plant height of mustard and chick pea was increased by 13.2 and 97.41%, respectively in the treated samples as compared to the control. Additionally, primary branching of mustard and chick pea was improved by 7.4 and 19.84%, respectively in the treated sample as compared to the control. The control mustard and chick pea crops showed high rate of infection by pests and diseases, while treated crops were free from any infection of pests and disease. The yield attributing characters of mustard showed, lucidly higher numbers of siliquae on main shoot, siliquae/plant and siliquae length were observed in the treated seeds and plot as compared with the control. Moreover, similar results were observed in the yield attributing parameters of chick pea viz. pods/plant, grains/pod as well as test weight of 1000 grains. The seed and stover yield of mustard in treated plots were increased by 61.5% and 25.4%, respectively with respect to the control. However, grain/seed yield of mustard crop after biofield energy treatment was increased by 500% in terms of kg per meter square as compared to the control. Besides, grain/seed yield of chick pea crop after biofield energy treatment was increased by 500% in terms of kg per meter square. The harvest index of biofield treated mustard was increased by 21.83%, while it was slight increased in case of chick pea. In conclusion, the biofield energy treatment could be used on both the seeds and plots of mustard and chick pea as an alternative way to increase the production and yield.

Evaluation of Plant Growth Regulator, Immunity and DNA Fingerprinting of Biofield Energy Treated Mustard Seeds (Brassica juncea)

Abstract: Among the oilseeds grown around the world, mustard is one of the important crop worldwide due to its wide adaptability and high yielding capacity. Owing to the importance of its utilities as condiment, cooking oil and some medical aids, the demand for its seed production is too high. The present study was carried out to evaluate the impact of Mr. Trivedi’s biofield energy treatment on mustard (Brassica juncea) for its growth-germination of seedling, glutathione (GSH) content in leaves, indole acetic acid (IAA) content in shoots and roots and DNA polymorphism by random amplified polymorphic-DNA (RAPD). The sample of B. juncea was divided into two groups. One group was remained as untreated and coded as control, while the other group was subjected to Mr. Trivedi’s biofield energy treatment and referred as the treated sample. The growth-germination of B. juncea seedling data exhibited that the biofield treated seeds were germinated faster on day 5 as compared to the control (on day between 7-10). The shoot and root length of seedling were slightly increased in the treated seeds of 10 days old with respect to untreated seedling. Moreover, the major plant antioxidant i.e. GSH content in mustard leaves was significantly increased by 206.72% (p<0.001) as compared to the untreated sample. Additionally, the plant growth regulatory constituent i.e. IAA level in root and shoot was increased by 15.81% and 12.99%, respectively with respect to the control. Besides, the DNA fingerprinting data using RAPD revealed that the treated sample showed an average 26% of DNA polymorphism as compared to the control. The overall results envisaged that the biofield energy treatment on mustard seeds showed a significant improvement in germination, growth of roots and shoots, GSH and IAA content in the treated sample. In conclusion, the biofield energy treatment of mustard seeds could be used as an alternative way to increase the production of mustard.

The Contribution of Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church in Forest Management and Its Best Practices to be Scaled up in North Shewa Zone of Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Abstract: This research was conducted in selected moasteries of Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOTC) in North Shewa zone. The main objective of the study is to identify main constraints which hinder the society to learn from religious instituions and apply the best practices and habit of experiences on forest conservation. Accordingly six monasteries were selected at different altitudes and sites purposively. Once the study forest areas were identified, 10 X 10 m quadrats were laid systematically in the forests for vegetation sampling. For the socioeconomic survey, 112 individuals were selected. Moreover, focus group discussion and key informant interviews were employed. Church forests enveloped in this study have an area ranging from 1.6 ha to 100 ha. The total number of species and families in each of the six churches ranged from 17 to 60 and 15 to 39 respectively. Different regeneration status was revealed from the height and diameter class distribution for some of the woody species. The height and diameter class distributions for all individuals in each studied church showed that the forests are at different secondary stages of development. The classification of the species group by ordination techniques showed the differentiation in species group types has a strong relationship with altitude. These church forests didn’t come to exist just by chance. Results indicated that it is by the commitment of the church based on strong theological thoughts and biblical basis. It was found that the local community respects and protects church forests, and considers the church as a central institution and platform. However, the community is not strongly committed to adopt forest management culture of the church due to: 1) the church leaders didn’t teach more to their followers to plant trees and to transfer the knowledge; 2) limited knowledge of the community about the benefits of forests to their livelyhood. 3), In general, the result of this study revealed that, forests conserved by EOTC and its tradition provide an opportunity to establish insitu and exsitu conservation sites for forest resources. They also have greater prospects in implementing forestry conservation, development, research and education programs with some avoidable threats and constraints for which recommendations were presented. Hence, it willl be worthy to include the church and mosque communities when delivering trainings and sharing responsibilities in aforestation programes.

Factors Influencing Pesticide Use in Smallholder Rice Production in Northern Ghana

Abstract: Rice production is an important economic activity among smallholder farmers in northern Ghana serving as source of income and household food security. The production of rice is often associated with the use of pesticides to control harmful pests of rice, a practice which also poses environmental and human health risks. The study sought to investigate the factors which influence smallholder rice farmers’ use of pesticides in rice farming in northern Ghana. Rice farmers were selected from three irrigation schemes in northern Ghana, namely the Botanga, Tono and Vea Irrigation Schemes. A multi-stage stratified random sampling technique was used to identify 300 rice farmers who were interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed both descriptively and inferentially. A probit model was used to study the determinants of pesticide use. The study showed that farm size, farm income, mechanization, extension contact, distance to source of pesticide and production system were the influencial factors in rice producers’ choice to use pesticide in rice farming. The study recommends extension education to farmers on pesticide use in order to avoid misuse and the risks factors associated with improper application.

Dynamics of Soil Fertility as Influenced by Different Land Use Systems and Soil Depth in West Showa Zone, Gindeberet District, Ethiopia

Abstract: Land use change from natural forest to cultivated land, grazing land and subsequent changes in soil physicochemical properties was widespread in Ethiopia. Thus, assessing land use-induced changes in soil properties are essential for addressing the issues of agro-ecosystem transformation and sustainable land productivity. The aim of the study was to determine selected soil physicochemical properties of forest land, cultivated land and grazing land and make investigation among the soil properties. Standard procedures were employed for the analyses of soil parameters. One way ANOVA was employed to compare the soil parameters at particular and overall soil depth. Textural class of all land use types was clay indicating similarity in parent materials distribution of bulk density in all soil depths of cultivated land were higher compared to both forest and grazing land. Soil moisture content was significantly increasing with increasing soil depths. The highest soil pH in all soil depth was observed under forest land compared to both grazing and cultivated land. The highest soil OM contents were observed in the surface soils (0-10 cm) of forest land while least Figures were from subsurface (10-20 cm) layers of the cultivated land. TN, CEC, exchangeable (Ca, Na and Mg) of the forest land soil were improved when compared with both cultivated and grazing land soil.

Growth Parameters of Onion ( Allium cepa L. var. Cepa) as Affected by Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates and Intra-row Spacing Under Irrigation in Gode, South-Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract: The productivity of onion crop is low due to poor agronomic and management practices in Gode district. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at Gode Polytechnic College demonstration farm in 2013 under irrigation to assess the effect of N fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing on growth parameters of onion (Allium cepa L.). The treatments were consisting of six rates of N fertilizer (0, 46, 69, 92, 115, 138 kg ha-1) and four levels of intra-row spacing (7.5, 10, 12.5 and 15 cm) and the experiment was designed in RCBD with three replications. Results of the analysis revealed that the interaction effects of N rates and intra-row spacing showed highly significant (P<0.01) effect on leaf number. Plant maturity was delayed at higher N rates and wider intra-row spacings and vice-versa. The longest plant height was obtained from 15 cm intra-row spacing and 138 kg N ha-1 where as the shortest was recorded from 7.5 cm intra-row spacing without N fertilizer application. Longest leaf length was obtained from plants spaced at 15 cm fertilized with 138 kg N ha-1. However, the shortest was recorded for plants grown in 7.5 cm intra-row spacings without N fertilizer. The overall result analysis showed thatgood growth performance of onion was obtained from 15 cm intra-row spacing combined with 138 kg N ha-1 fertilizer applications.

Analyzing Risks Related to the Use of Pesticides in Vegetable Gardens in Burkina Faso

Abstract: In West Africa, the uncontrolled use of pesticides by vegetable farmers leads to contamination of soils as well as surface and ground water. Farmers also use various sources of organic amendments which could impact the fate of the pesticides in soils. This study was conducted to identify the type of pesticides and organic amendments used in the main vegetable gardens in Ouagadougou, Ouahigouya and Bobo-Dioulasso three cities of Burkina Faso. Farmers were interviewed individually on their practices regarding organic amendments and pesticides. Sixty one percent (61%) of farmers do not know the instruction regarding the application of pesticides. Fifty three percent (53%) of farmers did never receive training on pesticide application. We found that pyrethroid-based insecticides like lambda-cyhalothrin and delthametrin were the most used by farmers. About 69%, 59% and 100% of the farmers apply the pesticides periodically in their fields respectively in Ouagadougou, Ouahigouya and Bobo-Dioulasso. All the farmers interviewed attested that they do not respect the recommended doses of pesticides. Manure was the organic amendment mostly used in the three cities (41-75%), followed by household garbage (15-41%). In Ouagadougou most of farmers (69%) apply organic amendment at the recommended rate or more while in Bobo-Dioulasso (69%) and in Ouahigouya (57%), the majority apply low rates. There is a correlation between the social status (sex and the education level) and the pesticide and organic amendment management.

A Comparative Study on the Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Agronomic Performance of Faba Bean ( Vicia faba L.) and Pea ( Pisum sativum L.)

Abstract: The study was conducted to observe the comparative effect of organic fertilizer (cow dung) and inorganic fertilizers like urea and potassium chloride on the growth, biomass and biochemical parameters of two legumes of pea (Pisum sativum) and faba bean (Vicia faba). Experiments were done using two plant species of legume family. Organic fertilizer like cow dung (15t/ha) and inorganic fertilizer was applied at rate of urea (120kg/ha) and potassium chloride (125kg/ha). The application of cow dung at 15t/ha showed significant growth over the inorganic fertilizer urea and potassium chloride in terms of germination percentage, fresh weight and dry weight, plant height, shoot length, and root length as well as number of leaves in both the legume plants. Similarly, biochemical parameters have also shown significant differences from organic fertilizer over the inorganic fertilizers and control. Thus our study provides the evidence for using organic fertilizer like cow dung by farmers to have better yield to produce quality grains as cow dung is easy available, environmentally safe and cost effective in pea and faba bean plants.

Structure and Regeneration Status of Menagesha Amba Mariam Forest in Central Highlands of Shewa, Ethiopia

Abstract: This study was conducted in Menagesha Amba Mariam Forest, a dry evergreen afromontane forest in central highlands of Ethiopia. The aim of the study was to determine vegetation structure, and regeneration status of the forest. Sixty- nine sample plots (20 m x 20 m) were laid following altitudinal gradient and each quadrat has a 125 m altitudinal drop. Herbaceous species were collected from five (1 m x 1 m) sub-plots laid at four corners each and one at the centre of the large quadrat. All plant species found in each plot were recorded, collected, pressed and identified following Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) and height were measured for trees and shrubs having DBH > 2.5 cm. The analysis of vegetation revealed that the forest possesses the highest number of DBH, height and density of species at the lower classes. Vertical stratification revealed that most of the species in the Menagesha Amba Mariam Forest were found in the lower storey. The total density of tree stems per hectare and basal area of trees with DBH >2.5 cm were 4,362.08 and 84.17 m2 ha-1 respectively. The total density of tree species greater than 2 cm and 10 cm DBH were found to be 860.56 which is greater than those with DBH >20 cm (197.46). Thus, the regeneration prevalence of small individuals (seedlings and saplings) was at good condition. Menagesha Amba Mariam Forest, which is one of the remnant dry evergreen afromontane forests in central Ethiopia, is under high degree of anthropogenic impact, which needs further attention as it is quite close to the nearby towns.

The Importance of Planning for Green Spaces

Abstract: Green spaces are often perceived as a luxury, especially in rural areas in need of basic services and characterized by housing needs. Recent studies proof the necessity of providing green spaces, captured in terms of the social, environmental, health and economic benefits that such spaces offer to (urban and rural) communities, along with the core linkage to sustainability and enhanced quality of life. Acknowledging the constrains of providing green spaces including issues such as limited municipal budgets, conflicting development priorities, and increasing urbanization placing pressure on space for development, this paper explores the importance of planning for green spaces in terms of the direct and indirect benefits it offers to communities and to the sustainable development approach.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Pituitary Gland Extracts and Ovaprim in Induced Breeding and Fry Quality of Clarias gariepinus, Burchell (Pisces: Claridae)

Abstract: This study compared the effectiveness of Ovaprim and pituitary gland extract (PGE) in induced spawning of the African mud catfish, Clarias gariepinus, using reproductive output and fry quality indices. At a mean temperature of 26.0 ±0.700C, latency period for Ovaprim and PGE were 613 and 745 minutes, respectively. Workers fecundity was significantly higher (p<0.05) for brooders treated with Ovaprim (36086.00 ±7215.50eggs) than PGE induced spawners (20978.00 ±6782.15 eggs). Hatching rates also followed the same trend, in which significantly higher hatching success was recorded for Ovaprim ovulated eggs (83.5%) than PGE induced eggs (63.7%). Fry survival rate was 81.90 ±1.10% for Ovaprim treated fish, while PGE induced fish fry had 77.73±1.33%; percentage deformed fry was significantly minimal for Ovaprim treated. However, all Ovaprim-treated spent fish died few hours post stripping, contrary to PGE spent brooders that were fully recovered. Production cost analyses revealed that the use of Ovaprim resulted in about 25% cost reduction. It is thus concluded that Ovaprim is superior to PGE in induction of breeding in Clarias gariepinus. This notwithstanding, the mortality suffered by all the spent fish treated with Ovaprim raises food safety concerns. This however, needs to be validated.

Future Fertiliser Demand and Role of Organic Fertiliser for Sustainable Rice Production in Bangladesh

Abstract: The study finds out the requirement of chemical fertilisers and suggests the role of organic fertilisers for sustainable rice production based upon projection of rice production, consumption, demand and supply of fertilisers for the years of 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050. The total requirement for commonly used three fertilisers, Urea, Triple Supper Phosphate (TSP) and Muriate of Potash (MP) may increase significantly due to compulsions for growing increased amount of crop outputs in small fragmented parcels of land in the context of diminishing cultivable lands in Bangladesh, negatively impacting on soil fertility as well as sustainability of crop production. Since sustainable yield of crop considerably depends on balanced application of both chemical and organic fertilisers in the field level, the research suggests for increased usage of organic fertilisers.

Challenges in Realising Sustainable Community Development in Rural South Africa

Abstract: The importance of rural development has long since been known but it has specific relevance to South Africa, where the poor quality of life is driving rural resident to migrate toward urban areas. This is turn is causing worrying problems for cities and towns which have to provide housing and services to the increased influx of new residents. The only solution to the rural exodus is to redevelop rural areas into sustainable communities. Having a clear definition and understanding of sustainable development and sustainable communities is a prerequisite in developing sustainable rural communities. To this end the Venn diagram of sustainability as it applies to communities is utilized, to incorporate social, environmental and economic issues into sustainable community planning and development. From this a better understanding of the interactions between the various spheres of sustainability can be had, leading to a better understanding of sustainable community development as a whole. Unfortunately there are several challenges in achieving sustainable rural communities. While most of these challenges are well known there are a few that are unique to the South African rural sphere. If development plans and policies aren’t tailor made to adapt to these specific challenges then sustainable community development will never be possible in rural South Africa.

The Impact of Deforestation on Soil Conditions in Anambra State of Nigeria

Abstract: The research was carried out to determine the impact of deforestation on soil conditions in Anambra State. Ten soil samples were collected at random at a depth of 0-35cm below the litter layer from forests and farmlands. The soil samples were collected and analyzed for pH, field capacity, soil moisture, organic carbon, bulk density, soil micro-organism and particle size distribution. The result revealed that soil texture was mostly sandy except in some areas such as Atani, Nzam, Mmiata and Oroma-etiti, where it was generally heavy (clay loam). The result also revealed that the soil samples from the forests have better physical, chemical and biological properties compared to samples from farmlands. The results showed considerable variation for the soil physical, chemical and biological properties across the study area. Soil data were analyzed using Least Significant Difference (LSD). The analysis revealed that the main effect of land use was significant (p<0.05) for soil moisture, bulk density, organic carbon, organic matter, pH, viable bacteria number and viable fungal propagule. It was not significant for sand, silt, clay and field capacity. The interaction effect of location and land use on soil properties were significant (p<0.05) only for soil moisture, it was not significant for other soil variables. The study recommended, among others, the protection of forests from deforestation so as to maintain good soil conditions in the study area.

Study on Present Status of Fish Biodiversity in Wetlands of Sylhet District, Bangladesh

Abstract: The study was conducted to identify the present status of fish biodiversity in the wetlands of Sylhet district for a period of 12 months from January 2014 to December 2014. It was done by questionnaire interviews (QI) of fishers, focus group discussions (FGD), and key informant interviews (KII) and secondary data collection. During the study period, a total of 58 fish species under 21 families were recorded. The species availability status was remarked in four categories and obtained as 24 commonly available, 16 moderately available, 18 rarely available species. Highest number of commonly available species was found in October to December and lowest number of commonly available species was observed in March to April. Among 54 threatened fish species listed by IUCN Bangladesh, about 30 species were found 10-15 years ago in those wetlands but only 23 were found during the study period. It is revealed that there has been gradual reduction of fish diversity in the wetlands of the area of Sylhet district and average fish catch per fisherman per day was also reduced. Community based fisheries management, fishing gears maintenance, sanctuary establishment and management, implementation of fish acts and regulations, stocking of fish fingerling in the open waters, dredging of beels and raising public awareness can play a great role in conserving fish biodiversity.

Climate Change, Effects and Mitigation Strategies on Aquaculture: A Review

Abstract: This paper review and addresses the major effects of climate change on Aquaculture, whose contributions to agriculture development are quite enormous. To achieve these objectives the status of this sub sector to the total fish supply are therefore analyzed with a view to identifying the major impacts of climate change on aquaculture. Aquaculture not practiced evenly across the globe requires an evaluation of the effects of climate change through the current aquaculture practices in the regions and the different environments. The main elements of climate change that would impact on aquaculture production include sea level and temperature rise, change in monsoon patterns and extreme climatic events and water stress, among others thereby causing varying degrees of concern either positively or negatively or directly or indirectly. Therefore, to ameliorate this adverse effect of climate change on aquaculture in Nigeria, and the world generally, attempts are made to deal with the climate change effects on the different culture systems in order to bring out all the complex attributes of climate change and the possible mitigation strategies for the future control. These will enhance aquaculture production and then claim back the expected role as a major source of animal protein in the future.

The Planning and Development of Child-friendly Green Spaces in Urban South Africa

Abstract: The impact that urban green spaces in urban environments have on the sustainability and quality of life of the residents is phenomenal [3,19,40] The local reality in South Africa confirms that green spaces, specifically child-friendly green spaces, in urban environments are decreasing because of growing populations and increasing urbanization [34] Preference is given to provide housing for a growing population, due to the impacts of urbanization, and the development and enhancement of green spaces are often neglected in this regard [30] Although literature proofs the benefits and need for green spaces in urban areas (also in South Africa), the planning and development of these spaces do not realize in many instances, due to a lack of municipal priorities and funding, driven by the urgent need to provide housing, but also coupled with a lack of understanding of the benefits and importance of planning for green spaces or child-friendly green spaces in urban development The planning and development of green spaces in the urban environment are investigated as part of this research, along with the benefits that such spaces can provide to communities by focusing on the aspect of child-friendliness This study evaluated the planning and development of child-friendly spaces in the urban environment of the city of Durban, Republic of South Africa, confirming how ineffective the current child-friendly spaces are Two international case studies are identified as best-practice cases, namely Mullerpier child-friendly public playground in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and Kadidjiny Park in Melville, Australia The aim was to determine how these international child-friendly spaces were planned and developed and to identify tools and planning approaches of the two international case studies that were used to accomplish the goal of providing successful child-friendly green spaces and how it can be implemented in South Africa The policies and frameworks which influence the study area in Essenwood, Durban, were identified and analysed in order to establish whether or not the planning and development of child-friendly spaces is supported within the chosen area This research concluded that child-friendly green spaces do however have a positive impact on the urban environment, caters for children’s needs and assist in their development and interaction with the natural environment, only if these spaces are maintained

A Framework for Planning Green Spaces in Rural South Africa

Abstract: The importance of planning for green spaces is well captured in literature, focusing on the direct and indirect benefits which such spaces provides to various beneficiaries, from local authorities to local communities However, the planning and implementation of such spaces, especially in a rural context, is complex The value of spaces is perceived differently by different stakeholders, and this is also true for the rural environments, characterized with unique challenges and needs This paper captures the value of green spaces and relates it to specific rural considerations, in order to state the value that green spaces can provide to rural areas and communities The Vaalharts case study is used to explain current realities and best practice options and the paper concludes with a framework for the planning of green spaces in rural South Africa, including all aspects and design elements that should be considered in the planning and provision of green spaces

Adaptability Study of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Varieties in the Mid and High Land Areas of Kaffa Zone, South West Ethiopia

Abstract: The bases of the idea to conduct this field experiment are the uses of the spices and the suitable agro-ecology of Kafa zone. There was no any research activity conducted in the Kafa zone in relation to highland seed spices. It is important to evaluate the adaptability of improved black cumin varieties in the Kafa zone in order to diversify their production and to maximize the income of the farmers in the area. Based on this fact, a field experiment was conducted using three improved Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) varieties; Dirishaye, Eden, and Deribera with the local check. The activity was conducted in the 2012 /13 cropping season at Alarigeta and Kaya Kela experimental sites of Bonga Agricultural Research Center. The objective of this study was to test the adaptability of improved Black cumin varieties to the representative areas Kafa zone. These varieties were evaluated for yield, plant height, pods per plant, emergence and flowering dates. The test varieties were used as experimental treatments and arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. The grain yield recorded in gram per plot was converted to kilogram per hectare. There were no significant differences (p < 0.05) in most parameters evaluated at Alarigata, unlike Kaya Kela site. The local check showed significantly higher grain yield (612.98 Kg ha-1) than Eden, Dirishaye, and Deribera (473.06, 451.9, and 449.62 Kg ha-1, respectively) at Kaya Kela. Based on the results obtained under this study variety Eden could be used for demonstration, popularization and pre-scaling up of the technology at Alarigata and the surrounding areas. On the other hand, this experiment showed the huge potential of the local variety at both experimental sites. Thus, such a potential suggests that the local check or the land race could be used for variety development program which would later be supported by agronomic and pathological studies (fertilizer rate, sowing date, and reaction to insect pests and diseases). This would give rise to the production of adaptive improved black cumin seed spices with specific quality traits at different agro-ecologies of the zone that fulfill the specific international market demands.

Land Suitability Evaluation for Plantation Forest Development Based on Multi-criteria Approach

Abstract: Information of land suitability is needed to prioritize suitable forest plantation for land use development. This is important to increase land productivity and eficiency on forest management decision making process. This research aimed to: (1) to evaluate land suitability based on pedo-agroclimate characteristics for plantation forest development; (2) to identify the farming-based socio-cultural and economic characteristics; (3) to determine the priority level of trees that will be cultivated through plantation forest development. This research was conducted from January to May 2015 in four districts namely: Kapontori, Lasalimu, South Lasalimu, and Siotapina (KALALASSI region). These are located in Buton Island, Southeast Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. The research method used was a spatial research method using GIS [1];[3]. The research has three main activities: data collection, evaluation, and mapping. Data collection included data on land biophysics, climate, and forest management development using survey method. Land evaluation was carried out on FAO method [14] and [15]. The major of trees were determined using LQ method [16] and the priority level of trees determine using MCDM method through the application of AHP [3];[4]. The last but not the least, spatial data development was used to map recommended forest land uses. The results showed that: (1) there were three major of trees in the research area, namely: Teak, Mahogany and Silk Tree; (2) based on land suitability classification, there are two classes found in the KALALASSI region, namely: moderately suitable (S2) which were located 3,836.05 ha for Teak and Mahagony, and Marginally Suitable (S3), which are located 3,343.45 ha for Teak, 3,467.20 ha for Mahagony, and 10,106.22 ha for Silk Tree; (3) the sequence of trees priority in KALALASSI region is Teak, Silk Tree, and Mahogany, then based on these recommendation, forest land uses and management plan were developed.

Planning for Sustainable Communities: Evaluating Place-Making Approaches

Abstract: People's survival and their quality of life, are irrefutable dependent on the natural environment in which they reside. To ensure that people's quality of life be maintained in any specific area, it is therefore imperative to find a sustainable equilibrium between the social and economic needs of people and the capacity of the natural resources in their environment. The composition of communities is, however, complex and diverse. The multiplicity of culture, gender and age in any particular community, give rise to needs that is unique regarding to that community as well as the impact thereof on the natural environment. For this reason, it will require an ingenious planning approach be followed, whereby the unique needs of people in an specific area as well as the protection of the natural environment simultaneously be addressed. Characteristics of a sustainable community are typically, a healthier, safer, greener, economically independent community which is well managed. Furthermore it has lower transportation costs and less traffic, is more economic in terms of housing and market demands, shows decreased costs of infrastructure and also has low level of air pollution. Place-making, through layout and design, is an integrative planning approach in creating sustainable communities. Place-making is fundamentally a strategy aimed at creating one or more places in an area which, serve as focal points for economic and social activities of people in the community. Such places will contribute to the quality of life in a community and will also encourage more people to visit the area.

Evaluating the Spatial and Environmental Benefits of Green Space: An International and Local Comparison on Rural Areas

Abstract: Many issues exist from isolated planning of urbanized areas and environmental areas. Current approaches focussing on the integration of Urban Planning and Urban Ecology seek to address such issues. Urban Ecology practice aims to describe the study of the joined relationships between humans and nature. Urban Ecology thus forms a major part of Urban and Spatial Planning, with regard to the objectives of sustainable planning and development, green infrastructure planning, and resilience. Green spaces support sustainable human settlements by means of the different benefits which nature provides, referred to in this research as ecosystem services. Green spaces, in this sense, are fundamental areas in human settlements, in need of intentional and structured planning approaches to enhance sustainability and said environmental benefits. Rural settlements in South Africa experience various problems and challenges in terms of planning for the environment through green spaces (as well as sustainability), mainly as a result of the fragmentation of these rural areas, the existence of lost spaces, urbanisation, urban sprawl and poverty. This research attempted to address the challenges of integrated planning and green space provision in a local rural context; evaluated the spatial and environmental benefits of green space; and enhanced the importance of planning for such benefits in rural South African areas. A local and international comparative study was conducted in order to evaluate the green space planning of South African rural areas in terms of international approaches. The comparative study also served as guidance for new green space planning approaches and recommendations in South African rural context.

Socio-Economic Importance and Livelihood Utilization of Bamboo (Bambusa vulgris) in Imo State Southeast Nigeria

Abstract: The study was conducted in the three Local Government Areas of Mbaise; namely Aboh, Ahiazu and Ezinihitte to assess the socio-economic importance of Bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) in Mbaise. Respondents for the study were selected from the three Local Government Areas, and each of Local Government produced three Communities to give a total of Nine Communities to give a total of one hundred and eighty (180) respondents. The entire selection was by random and purposive sampling technique. The objectives of the study were to; determine the various uses of bamboo and to ascertain the contribution of bamboo in the present dispensation to the socio-economic well being of the people in the study area. The data were collected using questionnaire, oral interview schedule and field visits. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages, frequency distribution table and return on investment (ROI). The result showed that majority (78%) of the respondents were male, 58% were between the age of 41-50 years, 76% were married, 38% had FSLC education. The result further revealed that 130 of the respondents use bamboo for staking of yams, 164 for erosion control, 168 for watershed while 68 indicated using it for building construction. Equally, 68 stated using it to confer aesthetic beauty on structures, 148 uses it for thatching/fencing and barn construction while an insignificant number (26) use it to construct platform, for goats. The result further revealed that 73% of the respondents are owners as well as dealers, 29% are middlemen dealers (Major) while 7% are middlemen dealers (Minor). Analysis done on return on investment indicated that dealers on bamboo made 92k, 82k and 76k profit for every naira invested in the business of supply for building, staking of yams and fencing barn construction and thatching respectively. From the foregoing, bamboo contributes in no small measure to employment and income generation in the study area.

Impact of Mycorrhiza Fungi from Grassland Rhizosphere and Liquid Organic Fertilizer to the Growth and Yield of Sweet Corn on Ultisols in South Konawe, Indonesia

Abstract: This research was conducted in the Abenggi of village, District of Landono, Regency of South Konawe, Province of Southeast Sulawesi and Laboratory of the Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Science Halu Oleo University Kendari, Indonesia took place from November, 2014 untill April, 2015. This study aims to determine the effect of mycorrhiza fungi from granssland and liquid organic fertilizer to the growth and yield of sweet corn on Ultisols Abenggi. This research is compiled using a randomized block design (RBD) with factorial pattern. The first factor are mycorrhiza fungi (M) with three levels: without mycorrhiza fungi (M0), mycorrhiza as 20 g each planting hole (M1), mycorrhiza as 40 g each planting hole (M2) and second factor are liquid organic fertilizer (P) which comprises three levels of treatment: without liquid organic fertilizer (P0) liquid organic fertilizer as 50 ml L-1 water each plot (P1), liquid organic fertilizer as 100 ml L-1 water each plot (P2). The combination of these two factors obtained 9 combinations of each treatment was repeated three times in order to obtain the amount of 27 experimental units. The observed variables in this study were plant height, stem diameter, cob weight with husk, corn cob without husk, cob length, cob diameter, number and percentage of mycorrhiza infection on the roots of the sweet corn. The results showed that the interaction between mycorrhiza fungi and liquid organic fertilizer has a significant effect on the plant height age 42 days after planting and cob weight without husk with the best results obtained in the treatment of mycorrhiza as 40 g hole-1 with liquid organic fertilizer as 50 ml L-1 water. Application the mycorrhiza fungi as 40 g hole-1 gives the best results on the growth and yield of sweet corn.

Preferences of ICT Tools by the Upazila Agriculture Officers (UAOs) for the Information Exchange in Bangladesh

Abstract: The purpose of the study was to investigate the preferences of ICT tools by the Upazila Agricultural Officers, Bangladesh for the exchange of information. Data were collected using distributed questionnaires among the respondents. The findings showed that majority of the respondents (93.8%) had highly favorable attitude towards ICTs while 6.3% percent had moderately favorable attitude and there was no respondent had slightly favorable attitude towards ICTs. It also found that the highly preferred ICT tool by the UAOs is cell phone (1.76) and the second highly preferred tool is tab with the mean value 1.74, and on the other hand, internet (1.31) is the least preferred tools by the respondents. Correlation showed that age, job duration, personality characteristics, ambition and access to ICT tools showed significant relationship with the preferences of ICT tools by the UAOs. Challenges in using ICTs revealed that load shedding problem (2.21), lack of training facilities (2.19) and indifferences of farmers to get information through ICT (2.19) are the major challenges faced by the Upazila Agriculture Officers. Thus, it can be recommended that more ICT tools should be made available to the respondents with properly addressing the challenges so that they will be able to choose from various alternatives and also be able to gather and disseminate useful information to the farmers.

Key Informant Perceptions on the Invasive Ipomoea Plant Species in Kajiado County, South Eastern Kenya

Abstract: Invasion of rangelands by undesirable plant species is one of the challenges facing rangeland productivity and to an extension livestock production in East Africa. They have affected communities in different ways in areas where they grow. Focus group discussions and interviews were held in two sites in pastoral and agro-pastoral regions of Kajiado County to get perceptions of farmers, livestock keepers and other stakeholders concerning the invasive plant species Ipomoea. This was accompanied by visits and field excursions to areas heavily infested by the invader species. The interviewed key informants agreed that the plant has more detrimental effects to the environment, ecologically and to the economy of the region. There is need for urgent interventions involving all stakeholders to curb the spread of the species, which is currently at an unprecedented rate. These include efforts by relevant institutions such as Government, Non-Governmental institutions through mobilization, training and capacity building and demonstrations in order to reverse the trend. Any trainings should however include aspects of recovery of invaded and degraded land primarily through pasture improvement and other interventions as this will enhance the utilization of these areas for increased livestock productivity and reverse degradation

Planning child-friendly spaces for rural areas in South Africa

Abstract: Child-friendly space are not successfully implemented in South Africa due to problems such as urbanization, development pressure, lack of qualitative open spaces and lack of policy and legislation guiding the planning and protection of such spaces. This study explores the possibility of creating qualitative, playful, educational and environmentally preserving open spaces through the creation and provision of child-friendly spaces for children within their surrounding neighbourhood. The priority within rural areas is usually focussed on providing basic facilities and infrastructure, and the provision of qualitative open spaces is often neglected. In this sense, there is no qualitative child-friendly space currently documented or successfully implemented in rural areas in South Africa. This study provides an overview on what is considered as a child-friendly space and the importance to create such spaces. The main challenges faced by rural areas in South Africa in creating child-friendly spaces are explored. Furthermore current planning approaches in providing child-friendly space in rural areas are identified and evaluated. Lastly green guidelines in creating child-friendly spaces are established.

Multitemporal Land Use Changes in a Region of Pindus Mountain, Central Greece

Abstract: Natural ecosystems are renewable resources with special environmental, social and economical attributes and characteristics. The increasing need of the human beings for a better environment leads to the use of new technologies that offer many advantages in detecting changes in the ecosystems. In this study the integration of remote sensing tools and technology and the spatial orientation analysis of Geographical Information Systems (G.I.S.) combined with in situ observations were used in determining any changes in land cover categories along an 18 year period. The study area of 9,287 ha extends to Pindus mountain, in the municipality of Plastira, central Greece. The results have shown that the current technologies can be used for the modelling of environmental parameters improving our knowledge on its attributes, characteristics, situation, trends and changes of natural ecosystems. The multitemporal changes that were observed are mostly due to vegetation evolution and less to socioeconomic reasons. The basic management strategy for the specific area should combine forest, pasture and livestock in such a way that each component produces usable products, while in the same time preserves sustainability.

Investigation into the Effectiveness of Selected Bio-Based Preservatives on Control of Termite and Fungi of Wood in Service

Abstract: The study focused on the effectiveness of using bio based preservatives as a controlling measure to biodetoriation from fungi and termite for wood in service. Wood samples of Triplochiton scleroxylon, Gmelina arborea, Ceiba pentandra used for the study were obtained from the sawmill of Ondo State Afforestation Project (OSAP) Oluwa and processed at the wood workshop of the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology Akure. The sample were converted into 60 mm × 20 mm × 20 mm and seasoned to 12 % moisture content. The samples were treated with bio-preservatives from Parkia biglobosa, Tridax procumbens and tar oil obtained via pyrolysis. This study showed that even though Ceiba pentandra has the highest retention for the preservatives, it is the most susceptible to fungal and termite attack. Gmelina arborea with the lowest retention have resistance to termite and fungal attack, thus, the effectiveness of the preservatives on the wood samples is not only determined by the retention level of each preservative but also the chemical constituent (pH) of the preservative. This study recommends the use of tar oil for preservation of the wood samples against termite where colour is not important while, ethanolic extract of Tridax procumbens can be used to preserve wood against fungal attack.

Assessment of Decomposition Rate and Soil Nutrient Status under Different Woody Species Combination in a Tree Plantation

Abstract: Forest Litter is the major input determining the nutrient accumulation within the forest soil ecosystem which goes a long way in determining forest stand productivity. To better understand this, the study investigated the litter decomposition rate and soil nutritional status under different woody species combinations in tree plantation established in 1998. Four different pocket of tree combinations Terminalia sp and Tectona grandis (1); Gmelina arborea and Tectona grandis (2); Khaya sp and Tectona grandis (3); Theobroma cacao and Cola sp. (4) were used, while undisturbed natural forest served as the control. Three plots (25 m x 25 m) were randomly mapped out of each site in which fresh litter were collected with litter trap (1 m x 1 m ) and 45 litter bags were placed and 90 composite soil samples to the depths of 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm collected using a stainless steel auger. These collections followed the principle of co-location in each of the plots. Litter bag technique was used for Litter decomposition rate. The results of the litter accumulation in the forest plantations were in the magnitude of Tectona grandis and Gmelina arborea (1249.2 kgha-1) > Teak and Khaya sp. (899.42 kgha-1) > Teak and Terminalia sp., (867.58 kgha-1) > natural forest (489.96 kgha-1) Cocoa and Cola (199.87 kgha-1). The decomposition rates under Tectona grandis and Khaya sp., Tectona grandis and Gmelina arborea mixtures were higher than other tree species mixtures. The rate of decomposition under Tectona grandis and Gmelina arborea mixtures was 5.3 times higher than that of Tectona grandis and Terminalia sp., Cocoa and Cola combinations and natural forest at 6 weeks. At 15-30 cm soil depth, the C/N ratio was in the magnitude of Tectona grandis and Gmelina arborea (8.6:1) < Cocoa and Cola (9.3:1) < Tectona grandis and Khaya sp. (9.8:1) < Tectona grandis and Terminalia sp. Natural forest (11.7:1). The organic carbon and available nitrogen at 0-15cm soil depth under Tectona grandis and Khaya sp. combinations were significantly lower compared with other trees species combinations. However, the available phosphorus was significantly higher under Tectona grandis and Terminalia sp. compared with other tree species combinations. The dendograme indicated that the soil characteristics in the various tree species combinations plot were similar up to 50% with four clusters. The observed relative nutrient availability within the structurally different forested ecosystem in the study area might not be unconnected to the litter mixtures emerging from different tree combinations.