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Re: Desert restoration, effect on atmospheric CO2 levels



Reforesting the Sahara has been tried. Did you never read about Wendy
Campbell-Purdie, who died before she could finish her project to make a
green belt across the Sahara? There is a book written about her effort.
She picked up funds here and there, in England, and then went back to the
Sahara to work.

The problem that has always surfaced is that the local people keep goats,
and the goats always eat the newly planted trees.

She asked around and took advice, mostly about using Acacia and other such
types.

If someone would plant the kind of xerophytic forest type trees such as
are found in southern Madagascar, there would be no goat problems. These
trees are often Euphorbias, and the latex would turn the goats away. These
trees are already accustomed to near-desert conditions.

The problem is also watering. If you read the stringent efforts that have
already been made, you would have a practical idea of what is involved.

A man became famous for his efforts in the Negev, utilizing dew, getting
it to collect and fllow to the spot where water was needed for trees.

B. Rateaver



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