Appendix 3 (Background information on the Uluguru forests)

 

 

Appendix 3.1. Description of reserves of mountain forest visited on this survey.

 

Uluguru North Catchment Forest Reserve. The reserve covers the steep summit ridge and eastern slopes of the northern half of the Uluguru Mountains between Morogoro town and the Mgeta-Bunduki depression, within an altitudinal range of 1000 to 2340 m (Figures 1.2, 1.3 and 1.5). Established: No information. Area: 83.56 km². Gazetted boundary length: 68 km. Summits: From northeast to southwest the main summits are: Lupanga (2138 m), Kinazi (2150 m), Bondwa (2120 m), Nziwane (2270 m), Magari (2340 m), Miwa (1900 m), Mnyanza (2140 m) and Kifuru (2010 m). Soils: Acidic lithosols and ferralitic red, yellow and brown latosols have developed over Precambrian granulite, gneiss and migmatite rocks. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall stations: Kinole Primary School, Morningside Farm, Tegetero Mission. Estimated rainfall: 1200-3100 mm/year on the western slopes, 2900-4000 mm/year on the eastern slopes. Dry season: Not marked according to Lovett and Pocs (1993). However, in recent years, e.g. in 1993, there was a pronounced dry season (this survey). Temperatures: 22°C max. (December), 17°C min. (July) at lower altitudes.

 

Temperatures measured during our 1993 survey (all values are mean temperatures for two days and are measured inside forest):

 

Night min. (°C)                     Day max. (°C)

Tegetero- 1 (1345m):            15.5                                                   22.0

Tegetero-2 (1535m):             14.8                                                  19.5

Tegetero-3 (1710m):             13.5                                      17.0

 

Vegetation: With the exception of rock outcrops, the reserve is entirely covered in moist forest. Submontane forest (canopy 30-50 m tall) occurs on the eastern slopes between 1000 and 1500 m above sea level (remarks from this survey: locally even lower in narrow strips), with the best stands above Kinole and Tegetero villages (Lovett and Pocs 1993). On the western slopes this forest type is restricted to valley bottoms near to the lower edge of the forest reserve. Montane forest (15-30 m tall trees) occurs between 1500 and 1900 m. Upper montane forest (canopy 15-20 m tall) occurs above 1900 m on wetter slopes and ridges in the cloud belt, with stunted elfin forest on the highest ridges. Landslips occur. Submontane forest: Canopy 30-50 m tall with: Albizia gummifera, Allanblackia stuhlmannii, Aningeria adolfi-friedericii, Anthocleista grandiflora, Cephalosphaera usambarensis, Cylicomorpha parviflora, Funtumia africana, Myrianthus holstii, Sapium ellipticum, Syzygium guineense subsp. afromontanum. Trees and shrubs include: Chlamydostachya spectabilis, Lagynias pallidiflora, Micrococca holstii, Psychotria spp. and Pavetta spp., Pseuderanthemum campylosiphon, Memecylon cognauxii and M. myrtilloides, Mesogyne insignis, Micrococca holstii, Oxyanthus speciosus, Peddiea fischeri and P. subcordata. Commelinaceae subshrubs include: Palisota orientalis, Pollia condensata and P. bracteata. Herbs include: the Zingiberaceae, Afromomum spp. and Renealmia engleri with broad leaved grasses such as Leptaspis cocleata. On shady cliffs the large Antrophium mannianum fern is typical, and a common canopy epiphyte is the giant nest fern, Asplenium nidus. In drier areas on the lower edge of the forest, usually below 1000 m, a semi-evergreen submontane forest type also occurs, dominated by Albizia gummifera and Milicia excelsa. Montane forest: The canopy is much less complex than in the previous type and usually consists of a single layer of 15-30 m tall trees. The dominant species are: Bridelia brideliifolia, Cornus volkensii, Cussonia spicata, Ficalhoa laurifolia, Ocotea usambarensis, Podocarpus latifolius, Syzygium guineense subsp. afromontanum and Zenkerella capparidacea. Shrubs include: Chassalia parviflora, C. violacea, Lasiodiscus usambarensis, Galineria coffeoides, Erythrococca usambarica, Euphorbia usambarica, Memecylon myrtilloides, Mostuea brunonis, Psychotria spp. and Pavetta spp., and along streamlets large stands of the treefern Cyathea manniana occur. There are many epiphytic ferns and even in the ground layer ferns are the dominants, for example: Asplenium hypomelas, Blotiella stipitata, Ctenitis lanuginosa, Diplazium pseudoporrectwn. On drier slopes and ridges a drier type of montane forests occurs with Olea mildbraedii and Cussonia lukwangulensis in the canopy, and Blechnum ivohibense and P. punctulatum and Gleichenia species in the herb layer. Upper montane forest: Canopy 15-20 m tall with: Allanblackia ulugurensis, Balthasaria schliebenii, Podocarpus latifolius, P. ensiculus, Rapanea melanophloeos, Rauvolfia volkensii, Schefflera myriantha and S. barteri. Epiphytes include the endemic orchids Stolzia spp. The trees and forest floor are thickly covered by bryophytes, which contribute to the catchment value. Shrubs include: Lasianthus spp. of which 8 are endemic, and the tree ferns, Cyathea manniana, the subendemic C. pumila and the endemic C. fadenii and C. schliebenii. On the mossy ground several endemic Impatiens spp. (like /. uluguruensis), Cincinnobotrys oreophila, endemic Linnaeopsis spp. and Streptocarpus spp. (like S. bullatus) are typical. Elfin forests cover the highest summits and sharp ridges above 2100 m (but at windy, misty habitat sometimes down to about 1800 m altitude), where the shallow soil is completely leached and peaty. The canopy is 2-6 m tall with: Agauria salicifolia, Allanblackia uluguruensis, Balthasaria schliebenii, Cussonia lukwangulensis, Garcinia volkensii, Podocarpus ensiculus, P. latifolius, Syzygium cordatum, Ternstroemia polypetala, Polyscias stuhlmannii and Lobelia lukwangulensis. The trees form a tight, dense canopy, with masses of bryophytes and tiny, endemic orchids, like Tridactyle brevifolia. Dwarf shrubs, like the monotypic endemic Dionychastrum schliebenii (on Magari peak), the endemic Stapfiella ulugurica and Streptocarpus hirsutissimus (on Lupanga Peak), also occur in this habitat. Bamboo (Sinarundinaria alpina) thickets occur in the elfin forest on the sharp north ridge of Magari Peak. Catchment values: The catchment value is very high as the area has one of the highest rainfalls in Tanzania without a marked dry season. On the eastern side the reserve is part of the Ruvu river catchment, and supplies Dar es Salaam with water. On the western side it supplies Morogoro town and villages on the mountain slopes. Biodiversity value: The forests are of the Eastern Arc type and so are rich in species of restricted distribution. More than 40 endemic species of woody plants are known from the Uluguru Mountains. The genera of Impatiens, Lasianthus, Linnaeopsis and Stolzia contain many endemics and monotypic endemics and near endemics are Chlamydostachya spectabilis, Dionychastrum schliebenii, Sooia macrantha and Urogentias ulugurica. The Uluguru Mountains have three endemic or subendemic giant Lobelia species: L. morogoroensis in submontane forest, L. longisepala in montane forest and L. lukwangulensis in upper montane forest. There are many subendemic species which also occur in the Usambara or Nguru Mountains. Timber values: Cephalosphaera usambarensis, Ocotea usambarensis, Newtonia buchananii, and Podocarpus sp. occur. Human impacts: The area adjacent to the reserve is intensively cultivated. Although the forest boundaries are well marked and seemingly intact, many encroachments have occured and illegal logging has taken place. Pole collecting for building purposes has resulted in most regeneration being removed from areas near the edge of the reserve. Heavy rains have caused serious landslides several times in the area. Fires lit at the end of the dry season cause serious damage every year in the forest reserve. The steep slopes result in the fires spreading rapidly in dry bush and grasslands neighbouring the forest. The area most affected are the slopes of Bigwa and Kibwe Juu, and Lupanga above Morogoro town. Management proposals (Lovett and Pocs 1993): The number of forest guards should be increased and proper patrolling of the forest is essential. To meet the local need for building poles and firewood, agroforestry should be encouraged and plantations established on the slopes. This should also increase catchment capacity and control erosion. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: On steeper slopes and ridges. Biodiversity zone: To cover the forest and ridges. Literature: Jackson (1970) (reference list of Section 3), Pocs (1974, 1976a and b, 1980), Polhill (1968) (see reference list of Sections 8 and 9).

 

Uluguru South Catchment Forest Reserve. The reserve covers the southern half of the Uluguru mountains from about 1200 m upwards on the east (remark, editors of this report: generally above 1500 m) and from 1800 m on the western slopes to the summits of Makumbaku (2420 m), Kimhandu (2634 m) and Lukwangule Peak (2638 m). The 20 km2 Lukwangule Plateau lies between two parallel north-south ridges at an altitude of over 2300 m. Area: 164.3 km2. Established: No information. Gazetted boundary length: 110 km. Summits: Kimhandu Hill (highest point 2634 m, a hill area), Makumbaku (2420 m) and the undulating Lukwangule Plateau (20 km2, highest point 2638 m). Soils: A wide range of acidic lithosols and ferralitic red, yellow and brown iatosols have developed on Precambrian granulite, gneiss and migmatite rocks. A large area of the Lukwangule Plateau is covered by peat deposits. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperature. Nearest rainfall stations: Bunduki Kibungo Mission, Tchenzema Mission (Lovett and Pocs 1993). On this survey we observed that there are also rainfall stations in Kibungo-Juu (very close to Lanzi village, at 900 m) and at Singiza Mission (at 400 m). Estimated rainfall: 2500-4000 mm/year on the eastern slopes and summit to 2000 mm on the western slopes. Dry season: On the eastern slopes there is no marked dry season, on the western slopes there is a dry season of from June to October (Lovett and Pocs 1993). However, over the last years the rainfall pattern has changed, and there is now a more pronounced dry season (this survey).

 

Temperatures measured during our 1993 survey (all values are mean temperatures for two days and are measured inside forest):

 

Night min. (°C)                     Day max. (°C)

Kimhandu- 1 (1520m):           11.0                                      19.0

Kimhandu-2 (1710m):            12.0                                      16.5

Kimhandu-3(1940m):             10.5                                      14.8

Kimhandu-4(2145m):             8.5                                       13.8

Kimhandu-5 (2520 m):           3.3                                       17.0

Lanzi- 1 (1710m):                  10.4                                      18.0

Lanzi-2( 1920m):                   11.0                                      18.0

Lanzi-3(2110m):                    —                                        —

 

On the Lukwangule Plateau and in the Kimhandu Hill area (especially on the meadows there) the temperature can drop to below freezing point at night. During our survey we experienced frosts at the meadow on one of the nights at the Kimhandu-5 (2520 m) station. The temperatures listed for that station above were measured inside the forest where the temperature never reached the freezing point. Vegetation: The eastern and western slopes are covered by moist forest, which surrounds the upland grassland, swamps and forest patches of the Lukwangule Plateau. Montane forest occurs from 1500 to 2400 m, and upper montane forest above 2000 m. Bamboo thickets cover large areas in the upper Mgeta valley and on Kimhandu summit, usually above 2000 m, but also as low as 1600 m in the Mgeta River Valley above Hululu Falls. Landslips occur. Montane forest: No data, but presumably similar to Uluguru North montane forest. Upper montane forest: Canopy 10-15 m tall. Trees on the eastern side include: Bersama abyssinica, Cassipourea malosana, Cornus volkensii, Cussonia lukwangulensis, C. spicata, Dombeya torrida, Dracaena afromontana, Garcinia volkensii, Halleria lucida, Podocarpus latifolius, Rapanea melanophloeos, Maesa lanceolata, Mystroxylon aethiopicum, Nuxia congesta, Ocotea usambarensis, Polyscias stuhlmannii and Xymalos monospora. Bamboo thickets form dense stands of Sinarundinaria alpina 12-15 m tall and 15 cm diameter, with the commonest species in the ground flora being Selaginella kraussiana. Grasslands and tree clumps: Grasslands on the Lukwangule plateau consisting of Panicum lukwangulense and Andropogon thystinns with scattered trees of Agauria salicifolia, Adenocarpus mannii, Myrica salicifolia and Herberts sp. are thought to have replaced upper montane forest following fire. Forest patches contain the trees: Apodytes dimidiata, Cussonia lukwangulensis, Ochna oxyphylla, Olea capensis, Pittosporum goetzei, Syzygium cordatum, S. parvulum; and the giant herb Lobelia lukwangulensis. At the Ruvu river springs, peat bogs formed by Sphagnum spp., Eriocaulon schimperi and Pycreus nigricans occur. In boggy places afroalpine species, such as Ranunculus oreophytus and Alchemilla johnstonii occur. Catchment values: The catchment value of the reserve is extremely high. It covers one of the highest rainfall areas in Tanzania, feeding the Ruvu river which supplies Dar es Salaam. The locally important Mgeta river, also originates in the reserve. Biodiversity value: The forests are of the Eastern Arc type and so are rich in species of restricted distribution. The Uluguru mountain forests contain more than 40 endemic woody species, and they are particularly rich in endemic species of the genera Impatiens, Lasianthus, Linnaeopsis and Stolzia. Monotypic endemics are Dionychastrum schliebenii and Sooia macrantha. Moraea callista occurs on the Lukwangule Plateau. The wetter eastern part of the reserve is not known botanically and is likely to contain many species of restricted distribution. Timber value: East African Camphor Ocotea usambarensis and Podo Podocarpus sp. occur, but no valuable timber trees occur in exploitable amounts. There are large stands of the African mountain bamboo Sinarundinaria alpina. (Remarks from the editors of this report: The fieldwork in the Kimhandu and Lanzi area during the 1993 survey showed that there are many Camphors in these areas). Human impact: The reserve is surrounded by cultivation. The Mgeta valley is an important agriculture area producing vegetables which supply Morogoro and Dar es Salaam, the slopes above Tchenzema are cultivated up to 2000 m altitude. Building poles are intensively collected in areas adjacent to cultivation. Encroachment is common and logging was carried out. Heavy rainfall on steep deforested slopes has resulted in serious landslips. Management proposals (Lovett and Pocs 1993): On the western side the boundary is well marked by Cupressus and Eucalyptus. Planting and clearing of the boundary is continuing. Proper patrolling of the forest is essential. To meet local needs for building poles and firewood, agroforestry should be encouraged and woodlots established on the slopes. This should also increase catchment capacity and control erosion. Successful agroforestry is currently practised near Bunduki and Tchenzema villages. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: To cover the steeper slopes and Lukwangule Plateau. Biodiversity zone: To cover the forest. Literature: Jackson (1970) (reference list of Section 3), Pocs (1974, 1976a and b, 1980), Polhill (1980), Temple and Rapp (1973) (reference lists of Sections 8 and 9).

 

Bunduki I and III Catchment Forest Reserves. Eight km from Mgeta. Bunduki I is marked on the topographical map as Vinile F.R. It covers the slope and valley of the Mgeta river from 1220 to 1540 m. Bunduki III is a small reserve on level ground by the Mgeta River just downstream of Bunduki I at 1220 m. Area: Bunduki I: 1.02 km2. Bunduki III: 0.03 km2. Established: ?. Gazetted boundary length: Bunduki I: 4.9 km. Bunduki III: 0.7 km. Soils: Brown sandy loams over crystalline gneiss. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Bunduki. Estimated rainfall: 2000 mm/year. Dry season: June-July. Temperatures: 22°C max (December) to 17°C min. (July). Vegetation: Bunduki I is mostly plantation of a variety of species including: Finns spp., Eucalyptus spp., Bamboo, Cupressus spp., Grevilea robusta and Avocado. In the undergrowth beneath the plantation, and occasionally within the plantation itself, montane forest trees and shrubs occur. Bunduki III is a small patch of montane or submontane forest (tree height up to 20 m) on a swampy area by the river. Montane forest: Trees to 20 m, including: Alangium chinense, Albizia gummifera, Anthocleista grandiflora, Bersama abyssinica, Cussonia spicata, Cylicomorpha parviflora, Dracaena steudneri, Ficus sur, Harungana Madagascariensis, Parinari excelsa, Polyscias fulva, Rauvolfia cqffra, Syzygium guineense subsp. afromontanum. Catchment values: The reserves protect part of the Mgeta river catchment. Biodiversity value: Although the reserve is mostly a plantation of exotics, it is possible that some species of restricted distribution have entered the reserve from the adjacent very species rich Uluguru North and South reserves. Bunduki III is a small patch of submontane riverine forest that is of traditional cultural importance, and which may also contain some species of restricted distribution. Timber values: The plantation of Cupressus is being harvested by pitsawyers. Human impact: The reserve is largely converted to exotic plantations, some of which are presently being harvested. Firewood and building poles are also taken from the reserve. The reserve is a useful seed source for exotics. Management proposals (Lovett and Pocs): There is a nursery in the reserve which supplies Cupressus seedlings for boundary marking for Uluguru North and South F.R.s. The reserve should continue in its role as a source of both exotic timber and seeds, but those areas where natural forest is regenerating or still occurs should not be cleared, especially by springs or along streams. Suitable indigenous species should also be planted, both for timber and seeds. Along the edges of the reserve suitable trees for firewood and building poles for local use should be planted. Bunduki offers potential for conversion to a resource centre for visitors. The old forester's house could be converted into an educational resource centre, whilst the nearby Bunduki Fly Fishing Lodge could offer accomodation to visitors. The reserve could show plantation techniques for a number of exotic species, as well as being close to the extensive natural forests of both Uluguru North and South. Upstream of the reserve there are the spectacular Hululu Falls. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: By springs and along streams. Productive zone: In areas currently under plantation. Amenity zone: In the area around the old foresters house and along selected paths through the forest and upstream along the Mgeta River. Literature: None known, though it is likely that some exists as this was a much visited area at one time.

 

 

Appendix 3.2. Description of lowland forest visited on this survey.

 

Kimboza Catchment Forest Reserve. The reserve is in the eastern Uluguru foothills covering a karst plateau south of Kibungo Mission at an altitude of 300 to 400 m. Access is from the Morogoro to Kisaki road between Mkuyuni and Matombo villages. Area: 4.05 km2. Established: 1964. Gazetted boundary length: 11 km. Soils: Tropical rendzina on Precambrian dolomitic marble base rocks. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Kibungo. Estimated rainfall: 1700 mm/year with groundwater. Dry season: June-August. Temperature: 28°C max. (December), 23°C min. (July). Vegetation: The predominant natural vegetation type is semi-deciduous lowland forest formerly with a 30-40 m high canopy of tall emergents, most of which have now been extracted. Within the forest protruding formations of metamorphosed limestone (marble) are prominent features. Lowland forest: Large trees include: Antiaris toxicaria, Aningeria pseudoracemosa, Bombax rhodognaphalon, Cordyla africana, Elaeis guineensis (native, up to 20 m tall), Khaya anthotheca (formerly K. nyasicd) (almost all exploited), Isoberlinia scheffleri, Lettowianthus stellatus, Milicia excelsa, Newtonia paucijuga, Parkia filicoidea, Ricinodendron heudelotii and Sterculia appendiculata. In the canopy large nest epiphytes, such as Platycerium elephantotis and Davallia chaerophylloides are common. A second or third storey is formed by many smaller trees, such as Cola stelenacantha and C. greenwayii, Cussonia zimmermannii, Dialhim holtzii, Drypetes parviflora, Filicium decipiens, Garcinia livingstonei and G. semseii, Grandidiera boivinii, Ixora tanzaniensis, Leptonychia usambarensis, Scorodophloeus fischeri, Uvariodendron gorgonis and Zenkerella egregia. Near springs and streamlets Pandanus cf. englerii forms large stands. The herb layer is often dominated by Nephrolepis biserrata and rare aroids such as Amorphophallus stuhlmannii, Anchomanes difformis, Callopsis volkensii, Gonatopus boivinii. On shady limestone on marble rocks an interesting community occurs containing Zamioculcas zamiifolia and the endemic Impatiens cinnabarina. At the northern edge of the reserve dry, semi-deciduous forests also occur. Along the road Cedrela sp. and teak plantation forests are cultivated. Catchment value: There are several springs producing water all year and supplying several streamlets carrying water to the Ruvu River. Biodiversity value: The forest has elements of both the Eastern Arc and coastal forests, and so is rich in species of restricted distribution. Considering the small area, a very high number of plant species are endemic: Two Asystasia species, Baphia pauloi, Chassalia discolor var. grandifolia, Cynometra ulugwuensis (a tall tree), Garcinia bifasciculata (tree), Impatiens cinnabarina, Pavetta crebrifolia var. kimbozensis, Streptocarpus kimbozana, and an epiphyllous liverwort: Cololejeunea jonesii. Timber values: The valuable timbers Mvule {Milicia excelsia), Mninga Maji (Pterocarpus sp.) and especially Mkangazi (Khaya anthoteca [formerly K. nyasica]) were once (in the 1960's) common. Human impacts: Logging has almost completely deprived the forest of its tall canopy trees causing much damage. Most large Mkangazi trees were pitsawn in the early seventies. Large specimens of Aningeria pseudoracemosa existed in the late eighties but by now have almost all disappeared. Minor forest products include building poles and medicines. Cedrela sp. from nearby plantations has invaded the forest, replacing the indigenous canopy trees. Management proposals fLovett and Pocs 1993): Valuable timbers such as Mvule and Mkangazi should be regenerated, and invasive Cedrela sp. controlled. Woodlots for building poles and firewood should be planted near villages to supply wood products currently supplied by the forest. The reserve has a high biodiversity value with a high species diversity and many endemics. In addition, this type of lowland forest is rare in Tanzania. This suggests the reserve should be conserved and further exploitation prevented. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: To protect stream sides and springs. Biodiversity zone: To cover the whole reserve. Literature: Pocs, T. (1976 a and b), Rodgers et al. (1983) (see reference list in Section 8).

 

 

Appendix 3.3. Description of  forest reserves in the Ulugurus and the nearest vicinity not visited on this survey.

 

 

3.3.a. Forest reserves on the mountains.

 

Nyandiduma Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 8 km from Mgeta. Access is from Mgeta via Nyandira on the Luwale road which forms the upper boundary. The reserve is on a steep east facing slope above the Mbakama river covering an altitude of 1500 to 1600 m. Area: 0.48 km². Established: ?. Gazetted boundary length: 8.5 km. Soils: Sandy brown loams over crystalline gneiss. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Tchenzema Mission. Estimated rainfall: 1300 mm/year. Dry season: June-October. Temperature range: 20°C max (December), 15°C min. (July). Vegetation:. Much of the reserve is a Cupressus sp. plantation with some Acacia melanoxylon, Podocarpus sp. and possibly Widdringtonia sp. Small patches of indigenous much disturbed montane forest occur. Seconday montane forest: Albizia gummifera, Cussionia spicata, Grevillea robusta, Dracaena steudneri, Ensete ventricosa¸ Halleria lucida, Millettia oblata, Myrianthus holstii and Trema orientalis. Catchment values: The reserve has limited catchment values, but does not serve to protect some steep slopes from erosion. Biodiversity value: The reserve has no indigenous biodiversity values, but the planted Podocarpus sp. and other species might be useful seed sources. Timber values: The planted Cupressus sp. is currently being logged. Human impact: The reserve is mostly a plantation. Although still rather small, the Cupressus sp. is being harvested by the village because it is infected by pests. 6000 seedlings of Grevillea robusta, Cupressus sp. and Black Wattle have just (Lovett and Pócs 1993) been planted in the tuangya system. Albizia gummifera poles are cut for building. Goats are grazed in the reserve. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): The reserve is currently being managed by the District authorities. Most of the upper boundary is marked by a road, but the rest needs to be surveyed and marked. Replanting of timber trees on the reserve should continue, though it may be useful to work out a long term planting and harvesting plan and consider planting some indigenous and multipurpose trees in addition to Grevillea robusta and Cupressus sp. For example the trial plots established in the 1950ies could be extended. There is a nursery within walking distance of the reserve which is being used to restock the plantations. There is an old foresters house on the reserve which still has good walls but lacks a roof. This could be rehabilitated for a forest attendant. Litterature: None known.

 

Shikurufumi Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 20 km from Mgeta. Access is from Mgeta through Langali, Nyandira, Kibuko, Luale to Kidege. The road to the reserve is in poor condition, but the road to Kikeo mission passing through the reserve is in quite good condition and not under heavy pressure. Area: 2.60 km². Established: 1948 or 1937,  Gazetted boundary length: 9.1 km. Soils: Sandy brown loams over crystalline gneiss. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Kibuko Coffee Plantation. Estimated rainfall: 1500 mm/year. Dry season: June-October. Temperature range: 22°C max (December), 17°C min. (July). Vegetation: The reserve is mostly covered by submontane forest, part of which appears to be old secondary growth. The edges of the forest are scrubby regeneration and are probably influenced by fire. In the centre of the reserve is a clearing which may be edaphic or the site of an old village and is now influenced by fire. On the southern edge there is a Eucalyptus sp. plantation. Submontane forest: Old secondary area on the top of the ridge have a fairly open canopy 15-20 m high dominated by Macaranga kilimandscharica with: Alangium chinense¸Albiza gummifera, Bridelia micrantha; Cussonia spicata; Haraungana madagascariensis, Polyscias fulva, Trema orientalis. Afromomum sp. dominates the herb layer. On more sheltered slopes, more mature areas have a closed canopy 25-30 m high with: Afrosersalisia cerasifera; Entandrophragma excelsum, Macaranga capensis, Myrianthus holstii, Newtonia buchananii, Odyendea zimmermannii, Parinaria excelsa, Strombosia scheffleri, Trichoscypha madagascariensis, Trilepisium madagascariensis. On the forest edge, schrubberyregeneration includes: Bersama abyssinica, Catha edulis, Cussonia spicata, Macaranga kilimandscharica. The clearings in the forest is covered with bracken with occasional Agauria salicifolia and  Myrica salicifolia. Catchment values: Shikurufumi stream originates in the reserve and flows through Lukungule village to Mbakana river through Kikeo mission. On the north east side water is taken from the forest via irrigation channels to Kododo Kitongoji Bomo. Biodiversity value: The forest is of the Eastern Arc type and so potentially rich in species of restricted distribution. Timber valuses: Timber values are low. The only Entandrophragma excelsum see were moribund, and there were few Newtonia buchananii. The Eucalyptus sp plantation contains many large trees. Human impact: On the ridge tops the forest appears to be in an old secondary successional stage, and the central clearing in the reserve may be the result of former inhabitation. Local people do not remember cultivation or habitation within the reserve and disturbance may date back several hundred years. The road to Kikeo mission (the Kibuko to Mkinha road as mentioned in the schedule) passes through the reserve, but is no longer used by motor vehicles. Formerly there was a mica mine and small farm on the southern edge of the reserve and this area is still cultivated by local people. There is some cutting for firewood and building poles but this is not extensive. Eucalyptus sp. poles are taken for building for regeneration in the Eucalyptus sp. plantation. Medicine is taken from the reserve, most notably bark from Entandrophragma excelsum and Myrica salicifolia trees. . Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): The reserve is currently being managed by the District authorities. Most of the upper boundary is marked by a road, but the rest needs to be surveyed and marked. Replanting of timber trees on the reserve should continue, though it may be useful to work out a long term planting and harvesting plan and consider planting some indigenous and multipurpose trees in addition to Grevillea robusta and Cupressus sp. For example the trial plots established in the 1950ies could be extended. There is a nursery within walking distance of the reserve which is being used to restock the plantations. There is an old foresters house on the reserve which still has good walls but lacks a roof. This could be rehabilitated for a forest attendant. Litterature: None known.

 

 

Vigoza Catchment Forest Description. Location: 12 km from Mgeta. Access from Mgeta to Nyandira and then to Tchenzema and by foot on the old road to the mission. The Mgeta to Tchenzema road traverses the reserve. The reserve covers a slope above the Vigoza River from an altitude of 1700 m. Area: 0.09 km². Established: 1947. Gazetted boundary length: 1.7 km. Sandy brown loams over gneiss. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Tchenzema. Estimated rainfall: 1200 mm/year. Dry season: June-October. Temperature range: 20°C max (December), 15°C min. (July). Vegetation: The reserve was formerly a Cupressus plantation which was harvested and is now a vegetable garden. There is a Polyscias fulva tree still standing in the reserve. Catchment values: The reserve is bounded by the Vigoza river on the north west side and the Mhongolo river on the south side. Reforestation would help control runoff and soil erosion into these rivers. Biodiversity value: No biodiversity value. Biodiversity values: No biodiversity values. Timber values: None. Human impacts: The reserve is a cultivated field. The Mgeta to Tchenzema raod trnsverses the reserve. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): The boundary of the reserve is marked with Cupressus sp. There is an old foresters house in the middle of the reserve which could be used by a forest attendant. The reserve should be planted with a mixture of Grevillea robusta and Pinus spp. for timber, and Black Wattle for fuelwood, charcoal and building poles. Proposed zonation: Productive zone. Litterature: None known.

 

 

Kasanga. Area: ?? km² (the reserve which is mentioned in Section 5 and was shown on our Figure 1.3 was not mentioned in Lovett and Pócs 1993). Location: At 700-900 m in a stream ravine below Ukwama village.

 

 

3.3.b. Forest reserves in the foothills.

 

Ruvu Catchment Forest Reserve. The reserve is in the eastern Uluguru mountain foothills, covering a plateau on both sides of the Ruvu River gorge at an altitude of 200 to 480 m (Lovett and Pócs 1993). The forest is one of the largest remaining lowland forests in East Africa. However, it is very poorly known, biologically (editors remark).Area: 30.9 km², but 29.8 km² on Jb 2065. Established: 1955. Gazetted boundary length: 29 km. Soils: Tropical rendzina on dolomitic marble (in the western half) and red ferralitic latosols on Precambrian granulite and gneiss (in the eastern half). Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Kibungo. Estimated rainfall: 1800 mm/year on the western edge with peaks in December and May, decreasing rapidly eastwards. Dry season: July to September on the western edge, longer in the east of the reserve. Temperature: 28°C max. (December), 23°C min. (July). Vegetation: The western half of the reserve is covered with seasonal lowland forest (peat bog at the Ruvu river spring) similar to that of Kimboza F.R., but with fewer species. Lowland forest: Canopy trees includes: Albizia gummifera, Khaya anthotheca (formerly K. nyasica), Milicia excelsa, Parkia filicoidea, with Barringtonia racemosa on the stream bank. Smaller trees include: Scorodophloeus fischeri with Acridocarpus cf. scheffleri, Meineckia fruticans, Pycnocoma macrantha, Rawsonia reticulata, Afrosersalisia cerasifera, Diospyros sp. Shrubs include: Dorstenia cameruniae and Psychotria cf. riparia. Catchment values: The area protects the banks of the Ruvu River, and is part of the catchment. The Ruvu River supplies Dar es Salaam with water. Biodiversity value: The forest is of Eastern Arc and coastal forest type and so will be rich in species of restricted distribution. An Eastern Arc endemic is Pycnocoma macrantha. Rawsonia reticulata occurs here below its normal altitudinal range. Ruvu Forest Reserve might also be an important link in the chain of coastal lowland forests. Timber values: Mkangazi (Khaya anthotheca [formerly K. nyasica]), Mvule (Milicia excelsa) and Albizia gummifera occur in many places in the reseve, the soil cover removed and the whole area much disturbed by the digging. Human impacts: The most serious disturbance in the forest is caused by ruby mining as the reserve is one of the most important localities for this gemstone in Tanzania. Licensed mining causes much damage, but is restricted to a licensed area. Unlicensed mining is carried out in many places in the reserve, the soil cover removed and the whole area much disturbed by the digging. Encroachment for small scale farming and fire also causes damage near the villages of Kibungo and Kibangile. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): Proper boundary planting and regular patrolling is essential. Due to the gemstone mining business much stronger guarding is necessary. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: On steeper slopes and stream banks. Biodiversity zone: To cover an area determined by survey. Productive zone: For licensed mining. Timber extraction. . Litterature: None known.

 

 

Chamanyani and Mvuha Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 30 km from Kimboza. Access is from the Kimboza to Mvuha. road which traverses Chamanyani F.R. near the eastern boundary, and by foot up the southern side of the Mvuha River to Mvuha F.R. The reserve covers hilly country to the east of the Uluguru Mountains and part of the Mvuha river valley from an altitude of 140 to 400 m. Area: 15.06 km². Established: During German administration. Gazetted boundary length: Not schedule, estimated to be 48 km. Soils: Brown sandy soils over crystalline gneiss under woodlands with more humus and occasional flooded sandy loams in the Mvuha valley. Richly calcareous slopes are recorded from the eastern side of Bewa Hill. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Bwakira Juu. Estimated rainfall: 1400 mm/year. Dry season: June to September. Temperature: 28°C max. (December), 23°C min. (July). Vegetation: Most of the reserve is covered by woodland or wooded grassland, the more open areas of which appear to be maintained by fire. Valleys and valley heads are forested. Buffalo occur. Woodland: Trees 5-10 m tall with: Albizia versicolor¸Brachystegia boehmii, B. spiciformis, Cassia abbreviata, Pterocarpus angolensis, Sclerocarya caffra. Riverine forest: Canopy 20-25 m with: Antiaris toxicaria, Khaya anthotheca (formerly K. nyasica), Milicia excelsa, Ricinodendron sp., Sorindeia madagascariensis, Sterculia appendiculata. Catchment values: The reserve protects a number of small catchments feeding into the Mvuha river, and the banks of the Mvuha river itself. There are some seasonal water courses in the woodland. Biodiversity value: The woodlands are composed of widespread species, but it is likely that the riverine forests contain some Eastern Arc and coastal forest species of restricted distribution. The Red Colobus (Mbega Mekundu) was reported by the local forester to Lovett and Pócs (1993) but was not seen during their visit. If it occurs then it is an important indicator of high biodiversity. The species is not known from any localities between Zanzibar and the Udzungwa Mountains. Timber values: Mkangazi (Khaya anthotheca [formerly K. nyasica]), Mvule (Milicia excelsa), occur, but most have already been exploited. Besides the river there is a small trial plot of Mkangazi. Human impact: Mvule and Mkungazi were extracted from the reserve many years ago. More recently the reserve was encroached due to lack of boundary marking. Building poles and firewood are taken for local use. Fire occurs every year. Ancient graves are marked on the 1910 border map on the western side of Mvuha F.R. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): South of the Mvuha the eastern boundary is marked by Cedrela sp. Otherwise the boundary needs to be cleared and planted. Mvule and Mkangazi need regenerating in the riverine forest areas; and the trial plot for Mkangazi assessed and extended. In the woodlands enrichment planting of Mninga should be carried out. fire needs to be controlled and building pole and fuel wood plantations established on boundaries in areas of high population. Proposed zonation: Catchment zone: On steeper slopes of valley heads. Productive zone: Following regeneration of Mvule, Mkangazi and Mninga; and establishment of building pole and fuelwood plots. Biodiversity zone: Following further survey on existence of Red Colobus and location of species rich riverine forest areas. Litterature: None known.

 

 

3.3.c. Forest reserves on the plains east of Ruvu River.

 

Mkulazi Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: Access is from Mvuha to Magogoni, across the Ruvu river by foot at Kiganela and then along the Mkulazi path, or by road from Ngerengere. Area: 686 km². Established: ?. Gazetted boundary length: Not schedule. Soils: Sandy soil. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Tunuguo, Ngerengere Agriculture. Estimated rainfall: 1000-1500 mm/year with some ground water. Dry season: June to September. Temperature: 28°C max. (December), 24°C min. (July). Vegetation: The reserve is covered by woodland (trees to 10 m tall) with thicket on termite mounds and taller, dense vegetation in areas of groundwater. Woodland: Trees to 10 m tall. Dominated by Brachystegia spiciformis with: Afzelia quanzensis, Dalbergia melanoxylon, Hexalobus monopetalus, Hyphaene sp. Pteleopsis myrtifolia, Pterocarpus angolensis, Vitex sp. and  Xylotheca tettensis. Catchment values: Although not of major catchment importance the ground water table is close to the surface and the reserve is source of the Lulongwe and Mkulazi Rivers. Biodiversity value: The vegetation is composed of widespread species. There may be stands of valuable timber species worth protecting as seed sources. In addition: Buffalo and elephant occur. Timber values: Although there has been logging recently, the reserve is reported to still contain stocks of Mninga Pterocarpus angolensis, Mpingo Dalbergia melanoxylon, Msekeseke and Afzelia quanzensis. Human impact: Valuable timber species have been recently extracted from accessible areas of the reserve and adjoining land. Footpaths cross the reserve and it is subject to fires every year, otherwise it is in a remote area with a low population density. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): The boundaries are marked with cement beacons and direction trenches, and some low density boundary planting would be useful to make the borders clear. The reserve has potential for production and valuable timber species need to be regenerated and enrichment planting done. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: Over water sources along stream and river banks. Productive zone: Regeneration and enrichment planting of Mninga, Mpingo, Msekeseke and Afzelia quanzensis. Litterature: None known.

 

 

3.3.d. Forest reserves on outlying hills.

 

Mkunwe Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 15 km from Mikese, 3 km east of Kikundi village. Access is from Mikese on the Mikese to Madamu road. The reserve covers an isolated hill at the north east edge of the Uluguru Mountains from an altitude of 800 to 1104 m. Area: 19.67 km² (variation initiated in 1982 for a larger area of 56.45 km², but not yet legally finalised [Lovett and Pócs 1993]). Established: 1954. Gazetted boundary length: 30 km. Soils: Ferralitic latosols developed on Precambrian gneiss and granulite rock. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Tegeteto Mission. Estimated rainfall: 1700-2900 mm/year on the wetter eastern slopes, mist effect on the summit. Dry season: Not marked, on the eastern side, 2-3 months on the western side at lower altitudes. Temperature: 24°C max. (December), 19°C min. (July). Vegetation: Submontane forest (canopy tall with emergent trees up to 50 m!) covers the largest part of the reserve, with transitions to lowland rainforest below 800 m. Dry forest (canopy to 10 m) occupies some lower side ridges on the western slope, where the soil is shallow. Woodland occupies the lower slopes below 700 (to 400) m altitude. Submontane forest: Canopy tall with emergent trees up to 50 m, with: Allanblackia stuhlmanii, Cephalosphaera usambarensis, Cylicomorpha parviflora, Isoberlinia scheffleri and Newtonia buchananii. In the lower part of the canopy Allophylus pervillei, Drypetes natalensis and  Polyceratocarpus scheffleri occur. In the transistion to the lowland rainforest Tetrapleura tetraptera and Zenkerella egregia occur. In the ground layer Aneilema aequinoctiale, Leptaspis cochleata, Nephrolepis biserrata and Pollia condensata are typical. Dry forest: Canopy to 10 m with Bequaertiodendron natalensis, Manikara sp., Scorodophloeos fischeri. Undergrowth with xero-tolerant ferns such as Pella doniana, P. adiantoides, Phymatodes scolopendrium and Davallia chaerophylloides. Woodland: Dominated by Brachystegia boehmii, B. microphylla and Vitex doniana. Catchment value: The reserve is part of the Ruvu river catchment. About nine streamlets carry water from the reserve, supplying Nyagule, Kikundi, Kibungo, Kidugalo and Lukangazi settlements, and Lusanga Estate with water. Around Kikundi many small scale rice fields are irrigated with the water. Biodiversity value: The forest is of the Eastern Arc type and is rich in species of restricted distribution. Examples of Eastern Arc endemics include: the trees Cephalosphaera usambarensis, Polyceratocarpus scheffleri, and several Acanthaceae e.g. Hypoestes forskaolii, Justicia fittonoides, and Stenandriopsis warneckei. In addition Elephant and buffalo occur. Timber values: Cephalosphaera usambarensis and Newtonia buchananii are valuable timbers. Human impact: In the central area of the forest Newtonia buchananii is under exploitation by pitsawing. Bushfires occur in the woodland every year and often damage the edge of the closed forest, which is therefore retreating. Encroachment or grazing was not observed. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): The boundaries need to be cleared and planted. Boundary plantations of building poles and fuelwood could supply some local needs. Exploited areas should be regenerated. Proposed zonation: Catchment zone: Covering the steeper slopes, streamsides and ridges. Biodiversity zone: To cover the forest. Productive zone: Boundary planting for building poles and fuelwood. Litterature: Pócs (1976a).

 

Nguru ya Ndege Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 10-15 km from Morogoro. Access is from the Morogoro to Dodoma road. The reserve covers the slopes and ridges of an isolated hill north of the Uluguru Mountains on the west side of the Morogoro to Dodoma road from 700 to 1357 m. Area: 36.14 km². Established: ? Gazetted boundary length: 25 km. Soils: Shallow lithosols are formed on the upper slopes and ferralict latosols on the lower slopes under woodland. At the base of the hill, where sady alluvial deposits are widespread, arenosols cover a large area. The parent rocks are Precambrian muscovite-biotite migmatites and hornblend gneisses Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Kingolwira and Morogoro. Estimated rainfall: 850 mm/year over woodland; 1500-1800 mm/year with mist effect over forest. Dry season: June-October Temperature: 25°C max. (December), 20°C min. (July). Vegetation: Woodland (canopy 7-25 m tall) is the main vegetation type on all slopes and covers about 60 % of the reserve area. On the summit submontane forest occurs. On the foot of the hill, around the 600 m contour line, remnants of once more widespread rich dry semi-evergreen forests occur. The steep rock towers and cliffs bear an interesting vegetation rich in endemics. Woodland: Canopy 7-25 m tall, dominated by Brachystegia microphylla, B. boehmii and Julbernardia globifolia. Other trees include: Albizia harveyi, A. versicolor¸ Brachystegia spiciformis, Dalbergiella nyasae, Parinaria curatellifolia, Pericopsis angolensis, Pterocarpus angolensis, Sterculia africana, S. quinqueloba and  Xeroderris stuhlmannii. The schrub layer contains: Ozoroa reticulata; Heteromorpha arborea, Steganotenia araliacea and Pavetta crassipes. On both south west ridges between 800 and 1100 m there are stands of Monotes elegans. Above 800 m on east facing slopes there ia a mist effect and rainforest epiphytes occur on the branches of the woodland trees, for example: Polystachya isochiloides, Oberonia disticha, Peperomia spp. and Lycopodium spp., Belvisia spicata, Drynaria laurentii and many bryophytes. Submontane forest: Dominated by Newtonia buchananii with Cassipourea gummiflua and Antidesma venosum. The forest goes down the northern valley where it is dominated by Albizia gummifera and Bequaertiodendron natalensis with Canthium guenzei, Phonix reclinata, Crassocephalum manii and a Disopyros species. Dry forest: With Alzelia quanzensis, Commiphora madagascariensis, Obetia radula and Euphorbia candelabrum in the canopy and with many other succulents in the lower strata. Rock and cliffs: On the cliffs  Coleochate microcephala forms a community, while on the rock summits Aloe morogoensis is dominant. At the edge og the rock and forest edge Lobelia morogoensis occurs in the two places. Catchment values: Only very local with no permanent watercourses, though there will be a contribution to groundwater. Biodiversity values: The Monotes elegans stand in the reserve has a high seed production every year and so could be important in seed production and breeding of this prospective timber species. The many endemics of the huge rock faces have high genetic and conservational value. Timber values: Newtonia buchananii in  the summit forest, Brachystegia spp., Monotes elegans and  Pterocarpus angolensis in the woodland and Afzelia quanzensis in the dry forest. Human impact: Fires occur every year on the slopes, pushing back the edge of closed forest. The north west slope of the summit is already completely deforested. The fires also damage many trees in the woodland. The lower slopes are being deforested for charcoal making. There is encroachment near villages. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): Boundary marking and planting is needed to stop encroachment. Patrolling needed to stop illegal logging and unnecessary burning. Fire control is needed to allow regeneration of the forest and woodlands. Woodlots should be planted on the lower slopes to provide fuelwood and building poles to the local villages and for charcoal production. Enrichment planting with Mninga should be carried out in the woodlands. Proposed zonation: Catchment zone: Steeper slopes and ridge tops. Biodiversity zone: Vegetation of the rock faces. A Monotes elegans stand. Productive zone: Woodlots on lower slopes. Woodlands following enrichment planting. Litterature

 

Mindu Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 6 km west of Morogoro. Access is from the main Morogoro to Mikumi road or from Mafiga. The reserve covers an isolated ridge at the north western end of the Uluguru Mountains abvoe the Mindu reservoir to an altitude of 1260 m. Area: 22.85 km². Established: 1954. Gazetted boundary length: 20.7 km. Soils: The foot is covered by alluvial sand and sandy loam deposite (up to 600 m). The rocks are muscovite-biotite migmatites and hornblende gneisses of Usagaran (Precambrian) age. The skopes are steep, but the base rocks are exposed only at a few places, above Mafiga and Kasanga. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic temperatures. In the rainshodow of the Uluguru mountains. Nearest rainfall station: Morogoro. Estimated rainfall: 800-1500 mm/year with a mist effect on the summit. Dry season: June-October. Temperature: 25°C max. (December), 20°C min. (July) at lower altitudes. Vegetation: Wetter woodland covers about 50 % of the reserve area on the slopes and ridges. The tree cover, when disturbed, reaches 70 %. Dry woodland covers about 20 % of the area at the base of the hill and has a tree cover of not more than 40-50 %. Dry semi-evergreen lowland forest covers about 20 % of the area and has 85 % tree cover (canopy of varying height from 10 to 30 m). It has survived in, and is presently restricted to, the fire protected gorges and to parts of the slopes where gullies act as firebrakes. Submontane evergreen forest remains only in fragments on the summit ridge (2 %), replaced mainly by secondary grassland (4 %) as after logging and fires. Rock outcrops occupy less than 4 % of the area. Woodland: Dominated by Brachystegia microphylla¸B. spiciformis and Julbernardia globiflora with Xeroderris stuhlmanni. Uapaca sansibaricus forms almost pure stands on the southern and of the summit ridge. The loose sandy soil at the base of the hill below 600 m is covered by dry Combretum woodland and wooded grassland. The trees are scattered, bushy, 6-8 m tall. In valleys, Acacia nigrescens and Sclerocary caffra dominate. On ridges and drier sites Combretum and Markhamia sp. dominate. Dry lowland forest: The canopy is of varying hight from 10 to 30 m. Evergreen trees include: Afzelia quanzensis, Cussonia zimmermannii, Euphorbia nyikae, Parkia filicoidea, Scorodophloeus fischeri. Decidous tree include: Alzizia glaberrima, A. versicolor, Brachystegia microphylla, Ricinodendron heudelottii, Tamarindus indicus and Terminalia sambesiaca. Submontane forest: The multilayered canopy is dominated by Newtonia buchananii and tangled by many climbers. Rock vegetation: Vegetation on cliffs and rock summits is dominated by the dwarf bush Xerophyta scabrida and is a community rich in rare and endemic species. Catchment values: Surface watercourses are seasonal and dry up during the dry season. During the rains (and in form of underground runoff) Mindu Hill supplies water to the Ngerengere River, which is important in supplying water to Morogoro township. Mindu Hill also supplies water to the Mindu water reservoir in the Ngerengere valley under its south eastern slopes. Biodiversity value: The forest is of the Eastern Arc type and so contains species of restricted distribution. The biodiversity value of the reserve are concentrated in certain vegetation types. The submontane forest fragments on the summits have an undergrowth of gingers (Aframommum angustifolium and A. usambarense), both rare species and the latter so far otherwise only known from the Usambara Mountains. The upper, mist effected belt of miombo woodland is rich in epiphytes with rare orchids such as Polystachia isochiloides, P. fischeri; ferns such as Belvisia spicata; and interesting mosses and liverworts such as Squamidium brasiliense, Rhodobryum perspinidens, Macromitrium tristatosum, Schloteimia schweinfurthii. The moss Frullania spp. occurs in large masses and is important in mist interception. In the dry semi-evergreen forest Grewia forbesii (a climbing shrub), Polysphaeria braunii (a shrub) and Commiphora madagascariensis (a medium sized tree) are rare species restricted to coastal Tanzania. In the open woodland rare bulbiferous plants occur, for example Amorphophallus goetzei. The granitic rock outcrops are also rich in rare species, for example Aloë morogoroënsis occcurs in large clumps. Timber values: There are few valuable timbers, with the exception of some Mninga (Pterocarpus angolensis) and Mpingo (Dalbergia melanoxylon) in the wetter woodland. Less valuable species represented in the reserve include: In the dry Commiphora spp. woodland: Acacia nigrescens, Pteleopsis myrtifolia and  Sclerocanya caffra. In the wetter woodland: Brachystegia spiciformis and Sterculia quinqueloba. In the dry forest: Afzelia quanzensis and Ricinodendron heudelotti and – to some extent Albizia versicolor. Human impact: Charcoal making and regular burning have a serious impact on the wetter woodland. During the past five years the canopy has disappeared or reduced from 70 to 20 % on the lower slopes between 600 and 800 m altitudes. Mining takes place on the lower slopes, with stone quarries and sand mines near the main road. Loose soils from the mines currently washes out onto the highway. In particular, sand mines have devastated large areas just behind Mafiga village. Cultivation does not take place on the slopes and grazing (goats) is very limited. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): Border planting is needed on the south eastern side facing the town and highway. Easy access to the main highway and proximity to Morogoro result in exploitation for charcoal and regular burning. Intensive patrolling is needed to control this situation. With exclusion of fire, secondary grassland on the summit ridge would regenerate into closed forest. Gaps in the woodlands should be enriched with Mninga or Brachystegia spp. Fuel wood and building pole plantations should be established on the lower slopes. Erosion from mining areas should be controlled by establishing a forest cover consisting of Acacia albida, Leucaena leucocephala and Eucalyptus spp. If the trend of deforestation continues, there is a real danger that not only the catchment and timber production wil suffer but also large scale soil erosion will take place on the steep slopes. Proximity to Morogoro also gives the reserve amenity value for education and recreation. Proposed zones: catchment zone: Steeper slopes and upper ridges. Biodiversity zone: Submontane forest, epiphyte rich woodland on upper ridges, and rock face vegetation. Productive zone: Fuel wood and building pole plantations on the lower slopes. Wetter woodlands following enrichment with valuable species. Amenity zone: Suitable path to the summit ridge. Litterature: Kayambazinthu (1989) (see reference list of Section 3), Pócs (1976a and b) (see reference list of Section 8), Pócs (1980) (see reference list of Section 9).

 

Dindili Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 25 km east of north east of Morogoro town. Access is from Mikese village on the Morogoro to Dar es Salaam road. The reserve covers a north-south running ridge north of Mikese to an altitude of 849 m. Area: 10.06 km². Established: 1953. Gazetted boundary length: 15.3 km. Soils: Acidic lithosols and ferralitic latosols on the steeper slopes with deeper deposits of ferrugnious sandy clay at the foot. The ridge is built up of Precambrian migmatites and gneisses. Climate: Oceanic rainfall with oceanic/continental temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Kingolowira Mission. Estimated rainfall: 700-1000 mm/year. Dry season: June-October. Temperatures: 26°C max. (December), 21°C min. (July). Vegetation: Woodland covers about 40 % of the area, mostly the lower ridges and the drier western slopes. Dry evergreen forest covers 60 % of the area on the wetter eastern slopes and summit ridge (tall closed forest with trees up tp 30 m in the valleys). Woodland: the canopy is rich in species: Acacia hockii, A. senegal, Brachystegia boehmii, B. microphylla, B. spiciformis, Combretum zeyheri, Dalbergia melanoxylon, Diplorhynchus coldylocarpon, Heteromorpha arborea, Ozoroa reticulata, Pavetta crassipes, Pteleopsis myrtifolia, Pterocarpus angolensis and Sclerocarya caffra. In the undergrowth Cyperus hemisphaericus¸Hyparrhenia rufa, Indigofera garckeana, Ocimum suave and Themeda triandra are important. Dry forest: Tall closed forest with trees up to 30 in valleys. The trees include: Brachystegia huillensis (dominant in many places), Afzelia quanzensis¸ Bombax rhodognaphalon, Commiphora madagascariensis, C. pteleifolia, Diospyrus consolata, Erythrina sp., Euphorbia candelabrum, E. nyikae (noth Euphorbia are tall trees up 20 m), Manikara sulcata, Pandanus engleri, Ricinodendron heudelotii, Scorodophloeos fischeri, Teclea simplicifolia and Vepris eugenifolia. Shrub and minor trees: Chazaliella abrupta, Croton pseudopulchellus, Excoecaria madagascariensis and Tarenna nigrescens. Catchment values: Seasonal astreams supply water to the realtively densely populated area along Tanzam Highway. There are shallow wells on the eastern foothills for rurak water supply. The western slopes drains into the Ngerengere River and the Ruvu River. Biodiversity value: The reserve is a typical coastal lowland forest, a forest type which was very much reduced during the last century. A characteristic coastal endemic species (in spite of its name) with a very resticted distribution is Commiphora madagascariensis. Species with Madagascan affinities restricted to the coast in mainland Africa include: Tarennia nigescens and Excoecaria madagascariensis. The Brachylaena huillensis population is valuable as a seed source. Timber values: The woodland is quite rich in Mninga (Pterocarpus angolensis) and Mpingo (Dalbergia melanoxylon). The dry forest is rich in valuable timber with large quantities of Muhuhu (Brachystegia huillensis). Afzelia quanzensis is also a valuable hardwood. Human impact: Fires occur regularly in the woodland, especially above Mikese Police Station. Illegal charcoal making takes place close to the main road. The dry forest is relatively intact, except for exploitation of Brachylaena huillensis for construction. Traps are set for small forest antelopes. A small amount of encroachment is reported. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): Border planting is required to controle encroachment. Fires in the woodland should be reduced to prevent loss and allow regeneration of closed forest. Illegal exploitation of Brachylaena huillensis shold be controlled, and coppice regeneration of the Brachylaena huillensis maintained and selected to raise good quality timber trees. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: Steeper slopes and rifgetops. Productive zone: Border plantations. Regenearated Muhuhu stands. Litterature: There should be student field work reports at Sokoine University.

 

Kitulanghalo Catchment Forest Reserve. Location: 35 km east north east of Morogoro town. Access is from the Morogoro to Dar es Salaam road. The reserve covers a ridge between the main road and the Sangasanga river from an altitude of 350 to 774 m.  Area: 26.38 km². Established: 1955. Gazetted boundary length: 18 km. Soils: Acidic lithosols, ferralitic latosols and ferrisols developed, pedending on the depts, over Precambrian gneiss. Climate: Oceanic rainfall, oceanic/continental temperatures. Nearest rainfall station: Kingolowira Prison. Estimated rainfall: 700-900 mm/year. Dry season: June-October. Temperature: 27°C max. (December), 21°C min. (June).  Vegetation: Woodland covers about 60 % of the reserve on the lower and higher slopes, except the summit and those parts, where the spread of fires was prevented by gullies and higher soil moisture. Dry semievergreen forest covers about 30 % of the area, mainly on the eastern slopes and summit. Woodland: Dominant species include: Brachystegia boehmii, B. spiciformis, Combretum zeyheri, Dichrostachys cinerea, Diplorhynchus condylocarpon, Julbernardia globiflora, Markhamia zanzibarica, Pterocarpus angolensis, Sclerocarya caffra and Spirostachys africana. Low, open dry, deciduous Combretum spp. woodland repalces Brachystegia spp. woodland on drier solis and is dominated by: Acacia nigrescens, Combretum apiculatum, C. collinum, C. psidioides and Pseudolachnostylis maprouneifolia, with dense grass layer. Dry forest: Trees up to 15-20 m tall, forming a cdense canopy dominated by Manikara sulcata with: Beqaertiodendron natalensis, Croton sylvatica, Cussonia zimmermannii, Ricinodendron heudelotii, Scorodophloeus fiecheri and Terminalia sambesiaca. The cyad Encephalartos hildebrandtii occurs as 6 m tall trees with stems 60-90 cm in diameter. In the lower canopy and shrub layer there is an undescribed Coffea species, with Commiphora pteleifolia, Grandidiera boivinii and Excoecaria madagascaiensis. Catchment values: The reserve is part of the Sangasanga river catchment. There are no permanent surface streams. Underground runoff is collected by streamlets at the foot such as Lubungo stream near Mikese and tributaries of the Ngerengere river. Biodiversity value: Two species occuring here, Grandidiera boivinii and Excoecaria madagascariensi, are typical Madagascan - coastal East African species with restricted distributions. The cycad stand in the dry forest is one of the largest in the country, with very tall specimens and therefore warrants attention. The still undescribed coffee species (Coffea sp. E of Bridson in the Flora of Tropical East Africa) is an unique endemic of the area of potential importance for coffee breeding. It grows on the ridge south of the summit at 550 m, on the border of the dry forest. Timber values: Pterocarpus angolensis and Terminalia sambeciaca have some timber value. In addition, trial plots of Cassia siamea and teak have been established on the eastern foot of the hill along the main road and are doing well. Human impact: Large scale charcoal making is carried out at the northern end of the reserve. The whole woodland area is burnt regularly. Management proposals (Lovett and Pócs 1993): Burning and charcoal making should be controlled. The teak and Cassia sp. stands should be managed. Proposed zones: Catchment zone: On steeper slopes. Biodiversity zone: To cover the dry forest, protecting the Cycad stands and Coffea sp. population. Productive zone: Teak and Cassia sp. stands. Litterature: Kielland-Lund (1982 and 1990) (see reference list of Section 3).