Pine trees have pros and cons
Oct 30, 2009
LETTER OF THE WEEK<br><br>On October 25, I read an article entitled, “Will pine balance economic, environmental interests?†Pine is commercially among the most important tree species for timber in temperate and tropical regions of the world. This is
LETTER OF THE WEEK
On October 25, I read an article entitled, “Will pine balance economic, environmental interests?†Pine is commercially among the most important tree species for timber in temperate and tropical regions of the world. This is because of their fast rate of growth and ease to be planted in relatively dense strands. They also have many roles. For instance, many are grown as a source of wood pulp for paper manufacture, some species have large seeds called pine nuts that are harvested and sold for cooking and baking, are attractive ornamental trees planted in parks and large gardens, while pine cones are widely used for decorations. However, pine growing has also disadvantages like like reduces the soil PH levels which leads to the depletion of some minerals like calcium. It also uses more water which affects the stream flow. Lastly, depending on the proximity of native forests to pine plantations, the biodiversity of the native forests could be affected.
Therefore, in order to maximise use and provide environmental benefits, pine should be grown on margin land or even agricultural land not in use for crop production.
Patrick Abigaba
Makerere university
On October 25, I read an article entitled, “Will pine balance economic, environmental interests?†Pine is commercially among the most important tree species for timber in temperate and tropical regions of the world. This is because of their fast rate of growth and ease to be planted in relatively dense strands. They also have many roles. For instance, many are grown as a source of wood pulp for paper manufacture, some species have large seeds called pine nuts that are harvested and sold for cooking and baking, are attractive ornamental trees planted in parks and large gardens, while pine cones are widely used for decorations. However, pine growing has also disadvantages like like reduces the soil PH levels which leads to the depletion of some minerals like calcium. It also uses more water which affects the stream flow. Lastly, depending on the proximity of native forests to pine plantations, the biodiversity of the native forests could be affected.
Therefore, in order to maximise use and provide environmental benefits, pine should be grown on margin land or even agricultural land not in use for crop production.
Patrick Abigaba
Makerere university