Presentation
Lessons Learned from Large-Scale Mangrove Restoration Planting following Remediation in the Eastern Niger Delta, Nigeria
SessionMeet the Poster Authors
DescriptionMangroves are the dominant intertidal vegetation in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. In this poster, we report on post-remediation planting of seedlings in nearly 1000 ha of habitat primarily devoid of living mangroves following numerous oil spills. An estimated two million mangrove seedlings will be planted at 2500 seedlings per hectare using 2 m spacing. Mangrove seedlings are supplied by local contractors. The first phase of mangrove planting commenced with the planting of Rhizophora spp.; subsequently, other species will be planted. By the end of 2022, 339,598 seedlings have been planted, covering 123 ha. Monitoring commences one month after planting, during which surviving plants must be 95% or greater or replaced by additional plants. 11% of the total seedling planted were replaced.
After passing the 1-month survival criterion, monitoring at 6-, 12- and 18 months commences measuring survival and growth characteristics. 4% of the project area has been marked and monitored for six months. Plants continued to grow (average height and leaf count: 68 cm and 23, respectively).
Lessons learned include the following: The nurseries must be verified to supply healthy mangrove seedlings. Avoid planting close to existing mangroves and stepping on regenerating plants. Growing too low in the intertidal zone and planting on mud flats must be avoided. Involving and educating the local community is crucial for sustainability. Sometimes, plants shed their leave and were presumed dead; but later showed recovery with new leaf sprouting. Lastly, proper data collection and database management are imperative.
After passing the 1-month survival criterion, monitoring at 6-, 12- and 18 months commences measuring survival and growth characteristics. 4% of the project area has been marked and monitored for six months. Plants continued to grow (average height and leaf count: 68 cm and 23, respectively).
Lessons learned include the following: The nurseries must be verified to supply healthy mangrove seedlings. Avoid planting close to existing mangroves and stepping on regenerating plants. Growing too low in the intertidal zone and planting on mud flats must be avoided. Involving and educating the local community is crucial for sustainability. Sometimes, plants shed their leave and were presumed dead; but later showed recovery with new leaf sprouting. Lastly, proper data collection and database management are imperative.
Event Type
Poster
TimeMonday, May 13th5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
LocationExhibit Hall G
Preparedness
Prevention
Remediation
Response
Restoration