Survival and Growth of Plant Species in Agroforestry System for Progressive Rehabilitation of Mined Nickel Sites in Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Abstract

This paper describes the survival and growth of different plant species in an agroforestry system during the early stages of development to assist natural re-vegetation for nickel mine rehabilitation. Narrow agroforestry strips were established along the contours in nickel mined areas to restore the vegetation and eventually serve as a natural filter for soil erosion. A combination of trees and other plant species were planted at various elevations of the mined land. In determining the species with potential as pioneers in mine rehabilitation, the survival and growth of the plant species used in rehabilitation were assessed. Results reveal that with proper cultural management, the survival of the various tree species in the constructed agroforestry strips can reach as high as 100%. Leucaena leucocephala, Pterocarpus indicus, Samanea saman, Muntingia calabura, and Terminalia microcarpa showed relatively high survival in the field. The same species exhibited favorable initial growth as measured by plant height and stem diameter despite the harsh conditions of the mined-out areas. These plant species have high potential to be used in the rehabilitation of nickel areas after surface mining.