MP gov’t seeks help in watershed reforestation

By Dexter A. See

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- The provincial government of this province has urged concerned government agencies to fully support the planned reforestation of over 50,000 hectares of denuded watersheds which are described to be in critical condition, especially those located in six out of the ten towns of this province.

Gov. Leonardo Mayaen said there must be consolidated effort among agencies and local government units to bring back the greenery of the province’s watersheds and grasslands invaded by people for livelihood who expanded commercial vegetable farms in forested areas.

The planned beneficiaries of the ambitious reforestation programs include those from the towns of Besao, Tadian, Sagada, Bauko, Paracelis, and Natonin whose forests are now rapidly deteriorating because of increasing population and businesses.

Aside from rehabilitating over 50,000 hectares of denuded watersheds, Mayaen said there is also urgent need for concerned agencies to provide local residents with sustainable sources of livelihood so that they will not be tempted to ravage the forests in trying to search for other resources.