Lack of Policy: the link between tree felling and urbanization in Omoku, Southern Nigeria by Daniel Ogbonna Instructor Professor Richard Eidlin EPM 4101: Environmental Foundations and Principles University College, University of Denver March 10, 2014

The Data Deforestation in Nigeria in 2005 Highest Deforestation rate, 55.7% (food and agriculture org.) removed 36% of its trees in the past 20 years only about less than 10% of trees remaining

The Link Tree felling: Widespread Deforestation Urbanization timber, firewood slash-and-burn farming/agriculture flora and fauna loss Urbanization increasing concentration of the human population into cities(Social Science Dictionary) building, construction, and industrial activities roads

The Effects Expose the soil to rain and run-off water loss of soil nutrients weakened soil resistance to erosion/flooding Large Scale Erosion loss of lives/properties land degradation low agricultural produce 2012 flooding of Omoku

The Solution Tree Preservation Policy Partnership with Local Community encourage planting, preservation of trees limit tree felling activities by individuals, oil and gas industries plant 3 trees for any one tree felled impose fine on non-compliance Partnership with Local Community map out lands for Parks and Gardens in Omoku provide seeds/trees free of charge bylaws to govern forest reserves in the community Educate school pupils/citizens educate the young and old sensitize the community

The Challenges Policy Implementation dedicated and conscientious team to implement policy bribery of, and corrupt practices by policymakers Monitor and maintenance of forest reserve Acceptance of the scheme by citizens/industries land as source of income, livelihood industries not duly monitored provision of seedlings, and space for forest preservation regularly monitor the implementation of the scheme Data Acquisition Strategy analyze and better understand environmental impact

The Pioneers African Community Project Reforestation of Zambia community forest projects tree planting education 10 million seeds distributed over six years period Tree Nursery, 4000 Seedlings, Nkhata Bay Ripple Africa Charity Tree Planting Project, Malawi 175 Communities, Nkhata Bay District 3 million trees planted working with schools, farmers enact bylaws to protect forest reserve sustainable source of timber and firewood

….adapted from greenpop.org The Benefits give out oxygen and sequester carbon dioxide increase biodiversity Urban tree planting improves pride of place, create jobs Improves an area’s water quality provide nutritious fruit to eat, sell for income fix nitrates into soil making it more fertile to grow other plants, e.g. vegetables provide healthy and beautiful playground for children/adult to play and learn

The End…… No Questions? Thank You! Thank YoU!