Uganda's Restored Forests Reach Primary Levels in Some Metrics After 20 Years

A study published in Ecology and Evolution found that canopy cover and Simpson's diversity in Uganda's restored forests reached levels similar to those of primary forest sites after about 20 years of active restoration.

The research, led by Eveliina Korkiatupa of the University of Eastern Finland, compared 45 restored forest sites with 10 primary forest reference sites, using vegetation surveys from 2013 and 2021 to track changes in forest structure and diversity.

Restoration efforts in Kibale National Park began in 1995 after decades of illegal land clearing for agriculture, with over 4,400 hectares planted with native tree species by 2023.

The planting program included a mix of pioneer, intermediate, and climax species, with the goal of mimicking natural forest succession. However, the study found that restored forests still had lower tree taxa richness, basal area, and stem density compared to primary forests.

Large trees, defined as those with a diameter of at least 20 centimeters, remained less abundant in restored areas than in primary forests, even after 20 to 26 years of planting. Researchers noted that large trees play critical roles in carbon storage and habitat creation.

While some biological characteristics of restored forests were becoming more similar to primary forests, the overall tree community remained distinct. The study emphasized that full recovery of forest structure and community composition may take centuries.