A Review of the Application of Aerial Seeding Technology in Restoration of Degraded Forests

Abstract

The use or deployment of aerial seeding technology in forestry has shown to be efficient, rapid, and most suitable for restoration of large degraded and inaccessible areas. The technology is relatively cheaper compared to conventional methods of restoration. Although aerial seeding has been widely used globally in forestry, its application is comparatively new in Kenyan forestry. This paper reviews selected experiences from countries that pioneered the use of aerial seeding in restoring large degraded forestlands and highlights key requirements for successful aerial seeding programs. Literature shows that the use of aerial seeding in forestland restoration dates back in 1950s with reports showing moderate to high success rate in USA, Canada, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, China and India. Success of aerial seeding is largely determined by interaction of factors such as seed characteristics, timing of seeding, site conditions or micro-site environment. Competition from surrounding vegetation, and seed predation affect the efficiency of aerial seeding negatively. The paper concludes that aerial seeding technology is efficient, cost effective and therefore suitable for use in the restoration of the expansive degraded forests in Kenya.