Simulation of stand dynamics for miombo woodlands in Kitulangalo Forest Reserve, Morogoro, Tanzania

Miombo woodlands constitute the most extensive type of forest cover within South and East Africa, Tanzania in particular, and they are seriously threatened by intensive degradation and deforestation. The dynamics of miombo stands were examined in this study using a simple simulation system applied to experimental stands at the Kitulangalo Forest Reserve (KFR) in Tanzania. Prediction of tree-level diameter increment, mortality, and ingrowth across species groups with empirical models based on data from experimental sites constituted the essential elements of the simulation system. Diameter distribution, stand basal area, volume yield, and above-ground biomass accumulation were assessed in three harvesting alternatives across three species groups. The results indicate a high degree of positive response to careful selective harvesting in lightly degraded, recovering miombo forests. Simulation systems compiled from experimentally based models seem promising as tools for research on stand dynamics and sustainable management alternatives in miombo woodlands.