BISLIG, Surigao del Sur–The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) recently held an inception meeting for two newly approved projects under PCAARRD’s Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) on Industrial Tree Plantation (ITP).
Forester Conrado B. Marquez of the Forest and Timber Resources Research Center-Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB-FTRRC) will lead the first project, “Assessment of Nursery and Field Growth Performance of Native and Exotic Plantation Tree Species in Caraga Region.”
SEE PHOTOS FROM THE MEETING
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According to Marquez, Falcata (Falcataria moluccana (Miq.) Barneby & J. W. Grimes) is still the most planted ITP species in the Caraga region. There is a need to develop faster-growing native tree species through selection as potential alternative tree species for the industry. With this project, the growth performance and resistance to pests and diseases of these potential species will be determined.
The second project, “Anatomical, Physical, Mechanical and Veneering Properties of Young-aged (3-, 5-, and 7-year-old Falcata and Yemane (Gmelina arborea Roxb.),” will be led by Dr. Marina A. Alipon of the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI).
This project will play a big role in determining the suitability of young-aged falcata and yemane for veneer, plywood, and construction materials. Alipon and her team will help tree farmers or plantation growers and wood-based industries by generating veneer processing technologies for the tree species.
After the project presentations, Dr. Leila C. America, PCAARRD-Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD) Director, emphasized the importance of accomplishing the deliverables on time. In line with this, Dr. Marcelino U. Siladan, ISP Manager for Rubber and ITPs, presented the PCAARRD-GIA guidelines on R&D projects.
With these newly approved projects under the ISP on ITP, it is expected that the productivity of land and the presence of market and wood processing plants in the Caraga region and nearby provinces will increase. Wood quality products with viable economic returns for local communities can also be improved. DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services
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