FORRU

Above: The trial plots will be near the historically and environmentally significant Phnom Kulen National Park

A survey will be carried out to identify the indigenous forest tree species in the area, followed by a literature search to determine which of them may be suitable candidates for testing as framework tree species. Along trails leading into the national park from the proposed nursery, forest tree species will be labelled, identified and observed monthly for flower and fruit production (phenology study). Seeds will be collected from those trees and others in Angkor Wat Historical Park for germination trials for a minimum of 50 candidate framework tree species during the 2-year project period.

In the second year, laboratory analysis will be carried out at Kew to screen up to 30 apparently recalcitrant species for desiccation tolerance (to maximise storage potential) and to tackle any germination problems in up to 10 orthodox species (to maximise germination). Right: Seedlings already propogated by Forestry Administration near Siem Riep. Once sufficient planting stock has been produced, a field trial plot system will be initiated in Y2 and monitored in subsequent years, to compare field performance among the candidate species being tested and assess their potential to attract seed dispersing wildlife and thus accelerate biodiversity recovery. Information from these experiments will be used to formulate a “framework species” approach to restoring of the unique forest ecosystems in the region and promote biodiversity recovery in restored sites.

To train FORRU-Cambodia staff, FORRU-CMU will join with the FA to run 4 joint training events focussing on 1) Identification of candidate framework tree species and tree nursery design; 2) Phenology data collection/analysis and seed collection; 3) Tree propagation experiments and 4) Design and establishment of a field trial plot system. Kew will contribute training in seed storage techniques to the second workshop, which will also be attended by FORRU-CMU staff, who will benefit from the technology transfer. FORRU-CMU will also work with Kew and Wildlife Landscapes to assist FORRU-Cambodia with data analysis, production of written outputs and assist the UK partners with project evaluation and quality control.

A list of indigenous forest tree species and voucher specimens.
A List of candidate framework tree species for testing, from combining published and indigenous knowledge, during team meetings.
A substantial dataset on the reproductive phenology of indigenous forest tree species
A well-functioning research tree nursery, with efficient staff, established by the local forestry administration, producing enough trees for planting experimental test plots as well as for government tree planting programs and for distribution to the local community
A dataset on the germination, dormancy and storage of indigenous forest tree species (at least 50) to support selection of candidate framework tree species.
Voucher specimens verified by Kew staff for all seeds tested at Kew.
Specimens, photographs and descriptive information from seedling growth trials to produce a seedling identification handbook in the future.
A field trial plot system, planted in the second year, producing a dataset on initial survival and growth of planted trees.