(PIA) -- The Watershed and Water Resource Research Development and Extension Center (WWRRDEC) and the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau   of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources  advocate  the use of  Maguey in mitigating climate-related threats.
 
WWRRDEC Center Head Helen Maddumba said that they are implementing  the project “S&T Action Frontline for Emergencies and Hazards for Forest Fire in the Watersheds in Bokod and Tublay using Maguey as Greenbelt”.  This aims to increase resiliency of pine forest watersheds from the adverse effects of climate change such as the increased occurrences of forest fires during dry months  and soil erosion during the rainy  season.

The project is  carried out in the Seed Production Area of Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Buguias in Daclan, Tublay in the Seed Production Area of CENRO Baguio in the tri-boundary of Bobok-bisal, Pito, and Poblacion in Bokod. WWRRDEC  was able to establish two Maguey nurseries and greenbelt in the two municipalities through the project.

"We will continue with the maintenance and protection of the established plantations. We will continue with the monitoring of maguey field performance as greenbelt," Maddumba assured.

Maguey  and its many uses

Maguey (Agave cantala)  has strong resistance to drought, pests and  diseases and low maintenance.

Originating from Mexico, maguey  thrives well in Northern Luzon. The plant has many uses. It is  excellent  for landscaping  and used as boundary crops for land.

Its leaves are used as fibers for bags, ropes, doormats, paper, rugs,  sandals, nets, and other similar items.

Researches proved that the roots of maguey  strengthen the embankment and its wide leaves absorb the erosive impact of raindrops, thus, preventing  soil erosion. Also,  maguey  is  fire-resistant.

Now,  environmentalists are   promoting  the environmental and economic benefits of establishing a greenbelt using maguey.

The “S&T Action Frontline for Emergencies and Hazards for Forest Fire in the Watersheds in Bokod and Tublay using Maguey as Greenbelt”  is a  three-year undertaking under the DENR Priority Program on Enhanced Biodiversity Conservation for enhanced resiliency and sustainability of forest ecosystems. It is   supported by the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development.

Part of the project is empowering communities on climate change and disaster risk reduction and management.

Maddumba said they will continue the implementation of these capacity building activities including trainings on creation of products out of Maguey fibers. She added that they will also continue in producing information education campaign materials to inform the public on the benefits of maguey. (JDP/DEG-PIA CAR)