print mail AFFORESTATION OF DEGRADED LAND

ยง Path: Montenegro / Berane / Sector: Forestry

The objective of the project is the afforestation of 360 ha of degraded agricultural and pasture land. The project area is located in the north region of the Republic, on the territory of the Municipality of Berane, along the riverside, in the area of the upper river course of the river Lim. Currently, the project area is classified as grassland, with vegetation cover that includes presence of shrubs.

The terrain is exposed to the risk from erosion and therefore it is essential to establish a vegetative cover soon. It is planned to undertake the present carbon sequestration project trough afforestation of degraded land, which would lead to enhanced sources of livelihood and incomes in poor rural areas, reduced soil degradation, improved water quality and conservation of biodiversity.
The forest species to be planted are determined according to the site and productive/protective scope of the plantation. Hence, the species selected are coniferous native species.
Under the specific climate and site types of the land proposed for afforestation, the species mentioned above offer the best chance for the success of plantations with respect to local ecological benefits, wood supply, soil and site stabilization, and improvement of rural landscapes.

Applied methodology

Carbon Sequestration Evaluation Model

GHG offset

It is estimated that the project has a capacity to sequester around 3.300 tCO2eq by the end of 2012, i.e. approximately 4.800 tCO2eq by the end of 2017. During the crediting period of 30 years, the project could sequester around 50.600 tCO2eq. 

Sustainability

The following non-GHG related social and environmental benefits have been identified as a result of the project:
  • Support to the sustainable development of the local community and enhancement of sources of livelihood and incomes in the area
  • Protection of soil from erosion
  • Increment in forest cover
  • Biomass production
  • Reduction of air pollution in the urban area located in the vicinity of project area

Current status

Specific technical information through questionnaires and site visit have been collected and the local site owner agreed on the project implementation.

Estimated investment costs

Estimated cost for afforesting 360 ha of degraded agricultural and pasture land with coniferous native species has been estimated to be around 500.000 EUR.

Local partners 

Directorate for Forestry of the Republic of Montenegro,

Institut for Forestry, Podgorica.