There is no universal guidance on selecting the perfect tree species for a restoration project. The Harit Bharat Fund vetting team asks project developers to choose species that are well suited to the landscape in which the project is working, contribute to the project's overall goals, and direct benefit communities.
The Harit Bharat Fund team will not disqualify any proposed project based on the proposed species alone, unless they propose to grow invasive species or establish monoculture plantations. Projects that plant a diverse mix of native species and/or exotic trees that directly benefit communities are especially welcome.
Below are some of the key items (in no particular order) that project developers should consider when selecting the species for their project:
- Landscape Priorities for Restoration: The selected tree species should be those that most effectively combat the specific land degradation challenges in the project area.
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Restoration Interventions: Certain tree species work well when using certain restoration interventions, e.g., agroforestry, to restore land. For example, a mangrove restoration project should not include "pine" as a proposed species.
- Locally Endangered Species: Project developers should consider planting locally endangered tree species and/or species that have a strong biodiversity value.
- Community Engagement: Project developers should engage local communities to determine the trees that they want to plant. When the tree species match what community members want, e.g., food, fiber, or fuel, they are incentivized to maintain the growing saplings.
- Ecosystem Services Needs: Restoration projects should target tree species that improve the functionality of the ecosystem. For example, when trees are grown in riparian areas that are prone to erosion, their roots can lock the soil in place and keep rivers and lakes clean.
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