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SAWLOG PRODUCTION GRANT SCHEMEFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSv.6 – Oct. 2010Supporting tree growing by the private sector throughout Uganda since 2004www.sawlog.ugQUICK CONTENTS GUIDEA. ABOUT SPGS (GENERAL):Questions 1 – 7.B. INVESTMENT IN TIMBER:Questions 8- 17C. SPGS GRANTS & STANDARDS:Questions 18 – 26.D. APPLYING TO SPGS:Questions 27 – 37.E. LAND ISSUES:Questions 38 – 43.F. TREE SPECIES, SEED & SEEDLINGS:Questions 44 – 56.G. OTHER TECHNICAL SUPPORTQuestions 57 – 64.H. Annex -Forest Management Plan OutlineSPGS:Sawlog Production Grant Scheme (SPGS) provides financial and technical support to private sectorcommercial tree growers throughout Uganda. SPGS is a partnership between the European Union and theGovernments of Uganda and Norway. Further information can be obtained from the SPGS office or from theproject’s web-site – www.sawlog.ug. DISCLAIMER: the contents of this publication are the sole responsibility ofSPGS and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the EU or the GoN.

A. ABOUT SPGS (GENERAL)1. What is Sawlog Production Grant Scheme(SPGS)?SPGS is a joint initiative between the Government of Uganda,the European Union (EU) and the Government of Norway (GoN)aimed at encouraging private sector involvement in commercialtimber plantations in Uganda. SPGS provides grants and technicalsupport to private sector investors in timber and large transmissionpole crops (NB. only formally contracted clients who have metthe agreed standards can benefit from the SPGS grants).2. What has SPGS achieved?In the first phase of the project (Oct. 2004 – June 2009) 1 , SPGStriggered a major interest in commercial tree planting in Uganda,with some 11,000 hectares (ha) established to the requiredstandards. Over 110 contracted growers (SPGS ‘clients’) andclose to 40 community planting associations benefited directlyfrom SPGS, with many more gaining from the professional adviceand training provided by the Scheme. The project has been thecatalyst for creating thousands of much-needed rural jobs. Thequality of the planting in the country has dramatically improveddue largely to SPGS’s enforcement of standards prior to payment,but also as growers have become more aware of the importantsilvicultural and management issues and the effect they have ontheir investment.To date (Sept. 2010) Phase II of SPGS (2009-2013) has alreadydirectly supported the establishment of a further 6,000 hectares(ha) of timber plantations throughout Uganda.3. When does the current SPGS end?Phase II of the SPGS started in Oct., 2009 and is scheduled to rununtil mid-2013. Contracts for financial support will run for threeyears from the date of contract signing to the end of project.4. How many hectares will the SPGS support?Phase II of SPGS has an ambitious target of 30,000 ha of plantationsestablished to agreed standards by the end of project (2013). Over70% of this total is aimed at small-medium growers (up to 500 hacontracts). SPGS’s community initiative is targeting to support afurther 2,000 ha of tree planting throughout the country.NB. This FAQ booklet does notcontain detailed information ontree growing: for this readersare advised to obtain SPGS’s2009 publication - TREEPLANTING GUIDELINESFOR UGANDA – which hasdetailed, practical information(and lots of useful photos too)for potential (and current)tree planters in Uganda. It isa valuable reference sourcefor and essential reading forwould-be SPGS clients. It canbe purchased from SPGS’soffice (for only Ushs40,000)or can be downloaded fromthe SPGS’s web-sitewww.sawlog.ugImpressive 5 yr old Terminalia superba plantation of JoseLtd in Mukono (Kasala CFR). Jose Ltd, belonging to localUgandan investors, planted 62 ha in Phase I with SPGSsupport and has a contract to plant another 40 ha in Phase II.5. Can I apply now for SPGS support?Certainly: SPGS is waiting for your application! From the start ofPhase II (Oct. 2009), we accept formal applications from bothnew investors and from those who were successful SPGS Clientsunder Phase I. Of course, there is a limit on how many growerswe can support but we will continue to accept applications untilwe reach our planned target (see Q.4). We then wait until wehave had time (usually at least two growing seasons) to assessthe contracted clients’ performance before offering any newcontracts. NB. Even having a contract with SPGS is no guaranteeof funding since this depends on the clients achieving specifiedplanting targets and reaching agreed establishment standards.Q.27-37 explain how to apply to SPGS.6. What criteria do you use to award contracts?SPGS reviews all new applications objectively on their merit.There is a transparent scoring system based on reviewing theapplication (including Forest Management Plan - FMP) and alsovisiting the potential planting site. The scoring considers thefollowing (amongst other matters):‣ former SPGS clients who succeeded in the first phase andwho have more land to plant;‣ new private sector applicants who meet the requirementsregarding land suitability, size and location;‣ those applicants with a sound Forest Management Plan (FMP)– including a realistic planting plan.CFRCOMFORTEUFAQFMPGoNGoUNFANTSCPCHSPGSUTGATable 1. A list of common acronyms used inthis bookletCentral Forest ReserveCommercial Forestry Research & Training GroupEuropean UnionFrequently Asked QuestionsForest Management PlanGovernment of NorwayGovernment of UgandaNational Forest AuthorityNational Tree Seed CentrePinus caribaea var. hondurensisSawlog Production Grant SchemeUganda Timber Growers’ Association1 To learn more about the background of the SPGS and how the project has achieved its results to date, a good place to start is an article published in theInternational Forestry Review - Vol. 11, No. 1 (2009) entitled The SPGS: a Success Story from Africa by Paul Jacovelli. It is available from the SPGS office and atwww.sawlog.ug2 SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 2010

NB. At each step, the applications are considered on the basisof the forestry business (economic viability and the abilityof the client to part finance the venture) as well as importantenvironmental and social issues. For more details see Q. 35 andthe FMP outline (appended).7. What interest has the SPGS had to date?Huge! To end-Aug. 2010 we have signed up 198 “Phase II clients”with a total area of 25,253 ha. We have also received 173 newformal applications. However, not all these will meet the criteria(discussed in Q.6) to be awarded contracts. Experience in PhaseI has also shown us that some of those contracted will not reachtheir targets: thus new applications are still being encouraged.B). INVESTING IN TIMBERPLANTATIONS8. Why invest in tree plantations in Uganda?There are a number of good reasons why commercial treeplantations are a good investment in Uganda - the main onesbeing 2 :‣ Supply shortfall: there is a large shortfall in timber supplypredicted in Uganda in the near future (there are virtually nomature plantations left in the country, with neither the Statenor the private sector investing seriously in commercial treeplanting for over 30 years until around 2003) − see Fig 1.‣ Regional markets: there are also excellent (and expanding)regional markets for timber and wood-based products – inSouthern Sudan, Rwanda and even Kenya.‣ Profit: attractive rates of return on ones’ investment can beachieved provided the operation is planned and managedwell (a 10-14% Rate of Return is possible 3 ).‣ High growth rates: conditions for tree growth are generallyexcellent over much of Uganda.‣ Land availability: there is plentiful, suitable land for treeplantations in Uganda – both privately owned and in CentralForest Reserves (CFRs) where tree planting permits areavailable from the National Forestry Authority (NFA).120,000110,000100,00090,00080,00070,00060,00050,00040,00030,00020,00010,0000Fig. 1. Uganda’s Plantation Development -Actual (to 2009) and Predicted (to 2020)(NB. Figs. are cumulative)Other Private*SPGS**NFA***pre-19701970-79 1980-89 1990-99 2000-09 2010-13 2014-20* Best estimates only (figs. not available)** Actual confirmed hectares (to 2009) and already contracted hectares to2013. Assumes no further SPGS hectares beyond 2013.*** NFA plans (2010 -2020) unknown: assumes 1,500 ha/yr from 20102For more details see the SPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelines (Chapter 2 - Investing in Tree Plantations in Uganda).3 2 See Hardcastle’s 2005 report for the SPGS: Improving the Investment Environment for Private Sector Plantation Development in Uganda. Available at www.sawlog.ug or from the SPGS office.41st September 2010 exchange rate: US$ 1 = Ushs 2232.5UTGA Report entitled Current Cost Evaluation Study to Determine Current Average Establishment Costs of a Forest Plantation in Uganda, Oct. 2008. Availablefrom UTGA (see Q. 63).6Further details are given in SPGS Tree Planting Guidelines (Chapter 3 – Plantation Planning & Budgeting).SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 20109. Where can I find a partner to work with?We recommend approaching the Uganda Timber Growers’Association (UTGA). UTGA already includes in its membershipthe vast majority of commercial tree growers in Uganda and sinceAug., 2009, welcomes smaller growers and potential investors inthe sector (see Q.63).10. What does it cost to establish a timberplantation?When SPGS started in 2004 it was calculated that the averagecost of plantation establishment over a range of sites in Ugandawas Ushs1.2M per hectare (ca.US$540 4 ). A study commissionedby UTGA 5 in 2008, however, revised the national averageestablishment costs upwards to Ushs1.5M (US$670). This canvary considerably, however, as planting sites are not uniformand management practices differ markedly. Ushs1.5M, however,takes into account seedling costs, good land preparation andthorough weed control before and after planting. Note that poorplanning (especially delayed land preparation, poor weedingand poorly trained and supervised staff) will sharply increaseestablishment costs 6 .11. How long does it take for the trees to mature?The main species currently being grown for timber and theirexpected rotations are as follows:• Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis – 15-20 years.• Eucalyptus grandis (Kalitunsi) – 8-12 years.• Maesopsis eminii(Musizi) – 18-25 years.• Tectona grandis (Teak) – 25-30 years.NB. These rotations assume that growers have followed therecommended silvicultural practices as detailed in SPGS’s TreePlanting Guidelines – especially with regard to using improvedseed, good weed control and adopting heavy, early thinningregimes. A number of these silvicultural practices have not beenpracticed in Uganda before 2003 and consequently there is nobase-line to relate the growth rates to: thus these estimates mightneed to be revised as information is gathered from growth plotsSPGS has established around the country since 2006. The rotationlength also depends on what size of sawlog (or transmission pole)the industry wants and whether the wood is of acceptable qualityat a given age.12. What markets should I target?The principle markets for products from commercial plantationsare sawtimber, peeler (veneer) logs and transmission poles.Plantations may also yield (depending on species and marketspecifications) chip and/or pulp material, building poles andfuelwood. Note that SPGS only supports plantations grownprimarily for sawlogs or large transmission poles. The timbermarket currently in Uganda is very poorly developed, with onlyone significant processing plant operating (Nile Plywoods Ltd.in Jinja): the situation will undoubtedly change, however, as thecrops being planted now reach maturity. A number of privatecompanies have already set up to install pole-treatment plants:List of pole treatment plants and contact numbers. UEDCL-4th Street Industrial AreaManager Pole treatment plant & store, Profase Tibyakinura- 0772-222383 New Forest Company-Along Mityana-Fort Portal roadMatfino Matthew -0753-397558 Busoga Forest Company-Masese-JinjaNasuuna Sarah-0782-640944 Nileply Pole treatment plant-Kakoge -NakasongolaSingh Harman-0752-7400773

13. Will SPGS finance plantations for small polesand fuelwood?SPGS supports fuelwood plantations under its Woodlot initiative,but does not support planting for small poles. The targetbeneficiaries are schools, hospitals, prisons, religious institutionsand other institutions in need of fuelwood; we establish thewoodlots in partnership with them. In order to qualify for thissupport, the institution should have a minimum of5ha of land. Please note that individuals or privatecompanies do not qualify for the woodlot support.crop matures. Because of the long-term nature of growing timbercrops (and the inherent risks with any long-term crop), very fewfinancial institutions are willing to fund such an investment. Astate subsidy paid in the early years has been very successful in anumber of other countries, in attracting private growers to investin tree growing.14. Does SPGS guarantee the marketwhen my trees are mature for harvesting?No. SPGS only supports the investor in establishmentand early maintenance of timber plantations. Butgiven the fact that Uganda will soon be experiencinga large shortfall of timber supply, there is no need toworry about the markets at the moment. RememberUganda urgently needs at least 75,000 ha just to meetinternal markets of which we currently (2010) have.NB. SPGS – in conjunction with UTGA - is carryingout research into markets for growers with a quarterlyupdate published in the SPGS News 7 .15. Can I sell my trees before theyreach maturity?After your SPGS contract is ended, the trees are yoursto do with as you see fit. We obviously hope thatyou will maintain your plantations in the correctmanner – notably by thinning, pruning on time andprotecting from fires: SPGS offers a grant for pruningand/or thinning (see Q. 22) to encourage this. Forthose thinking of selling their crops early, rememberthat the value of timber trees increases sharply asthe crop approaches maturity and so growers will benefit fromwaiting until they are of the right size. One’s tree crop, however,will have a value as it grows and thus crops can be sold at anystage of development if the owner so decides. SPGS with UTGAare working to provide valuation guidelines for tree crops so thatgrowers will have a better idea of what their crops should beworth at any given age.16. Where will I sell my trees?UTGA have already prioritized market development as the numberone concern for their members. What commercial growers do notwant is to return to the old ways of pitsawing and mobile sawmills(except in exceptional circumstances e.g. remote crops and verybig trees). These practices are inefficient and extremely wasteful,often achieving less than 20% recovery from a log, comparedwith a modern mill’s 40-50%. SPGS’s and UTGA’s vision is toencourage a network of modern, efficient processing units instrategic places, which will be able to offer growers a decent pricein return for quality sawlogs. The bigger investors – includingNileply in Jinja, New Forests Company in Mubende and Kiboga,Global Woods in Kiboga and Busoga Forestry Co. in Mayuge -are already planning modern sawmills, chipping and treatmentplants. As other private growers are ‘clustered’ in certain areas(see Map p.15), there will be great scope for collective sellingand/or processing initiatives.17. So why does commercial tree planting inUganda need a subsidy?Establishing good quality, timber plantations requires asignificant investment – most of which has to be made in the firstfew years, with the main revenue only materializing when theUgandan planters admire a mature pine crop during one of the SPGSorganised Southern Africa exposure tours. Following the recommendationsin the SPGS Tree Planting Guidelines, we too can produce such plantationsin Uganda.C). SPGS GRANTS &STANDARDS18. How does SPGS work?The planting subsidy is available as a non-refundable grant. Thereare, however, certain standards that have to be met before themoney is disbursed and this will be verified by site inspectionsfrom SPGS staff. Technical advice is an important part of SPGSsupport, which includes running practical training courses,sharing experiences at regular field meetings, publishing practicalplantation guidelines and an informative, quarterly newsletter(SPGS News) to assist growers at all levels of experience.19. How much funding does the SPGS provide?For Phase II of SPGS (2009-2013), the following rates apply tocontracted clients who achieve the agreed standards:‣ For growers 25-500 ha: Ushs 850,000 per ha.‣ For growers 501-3,000 ha: Ushs 600,000 per ha.NB. The maximum contract area for any one client is cumulativefrom the start (Phase I: 2004-09) of SPGS. Note also that SPGSgrant is a flat rate applied countrywide so growers have to beaware that in some areas establishment costs may be higher thanothers. These rates cover a significant part of the establishmentcosts (see Q.10) but not all of it and so potential applicants mustbe able to meet the balance from other sources. In addition todirect planting grants, SPGS also subsidizes practical trainingcourses, organizes regular field excursions and has produced avery useful ‘tree growers’ manual – Tree Planting Guidelines forUganda (see p.2).7SPGS’s quarterly newsletter; copies freely available from our office and can be downloaded off our website www.sawlog.ug4 SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 2010

20. Do I receive the money up-front?This must be the most frequently asked question by everyone wemeet! And the answer is No. Sorry, but for obvious reasons youhave to start with your own money. History has taught us thatfunds paid up-front are highly likely to be diverted to uses otherthan planting trees.21. When does SPGS pay me?SPGS clients (i.e. applicants who have signed a contract with theproject) are only paid after a member of SPGS staff has visitedand approved the work carried out. Payments are made in threeinstallments over three years (but only if the agreed standardshad been met) – as shown in Table 2.Whilst efforts are made to visit as early as possible after the initialplanting, at least three months has to be allowed to ensure thetrees have established well after initial planting.PeriodTable 2. SPGS PAYMENT DETAILSSmall-Medium Growers(25-500 ha) (Ushs)Large Growers(501-3,000ha) (Ushs)Yr Mth 1st 2nd 3rd 1st 2nd 3rd1 3-6 450,000 - - 300,000 - -1-2 8-14 - 200,000 - - 150,000 -2-3 22-36 - - 200,000 - - 150,00022. Will I receive any further support from SPGSafter the first 2-3 years?This will depend on the future of SPGS once the current EU/GoN funding finishes in 2013. Beyond then it is confidentlyexpected that UTGA will have taken on many of the rolescurrently undertaken by SPGS – including sourcing for funds andoffering sound, technical advice to private investors. UTGA is anindependent trade body and unlike SPGS, is a registered, legalentity which should be around for many years to come.SPGS Phase II is also offering growers with older crops a pruningand thinning grant of Ushs 100,000 per ha (NB. available on firstcome, first served basis but crops must be atthe right stage for each operation - see TreePlanting Guidelines). All SPGS clients - pastand present - will also receive regular copiesof the quarterly SPGS News as well as anynew publications too, to keep everybodyinformed of developments.24. If I start planting in anticipation of signingan SPGS contract, will I be considered if SPGSreceives further funding?Clearly those people who had demonstrated their commitmentby planting to SPGS’s required standards would be favourablylooked on but there can be no promise of funding until a contractis signed. Contracts cannot be retrospective either – thus SPGScannot pay for trees planted before the contract was signed.However, if you are an applicant to SPGS and you have alreadystarted planting, it offers you an edge over that one who has notstarted planting - more so if the quality of your plantation reachesSPGS’s standards.25. What are SPGS’s standards?SPGS has developed a set of basic standards that its clients mustachieve in order to receive grant support. These standards arebased on the principles of sustainable forestry management,incorporating the business plan as well as environmental andsocial aspects too. The main standards set (and enforced) by theSPGS are as follows: NB. Further details on all these issues canbe found in SPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelines (see p.2).• The key silvicultural, environmental & social issues (as laidout in the FMP) – must have been implemented (refer Annex)– especially regarding species’ choice, conservation of naturalforests and water courses and labour health and safety issues.• Land preparation prior to planting must be adequate (clearing,lining out & pit size).• Seed must only come from an SPGS approved source (seeQ.49).• Appropriate spacing for growing timber and/or large polesshould be adopted.• Good seedling quality (whether from own or externalnursery).• Weed control immediately prior to and after planting mustbe adequate: the minimum acceptable standard is for the 1mdiameter pit to be kept clean and inter-row weeds should notdirectly compete directly with the planted trees.• Survival must be at least 80% three months after initialplanting 8 .• Adequate protection of the crop from livestock and fires.23. Will SPGS pay me for thetrees I have already planted?After Q.20, this must be the second mostfrequently asked question fired at the SPGSteam! And again the answer is No. SPGScan only fund trees planted after a formalcontract has been signed with the project:hence there can be no payments for treesplanted prior to the contract. This is toSPGS Community Officer, Charles Odeke, posing with ladies from Watemu Lapainatensure that growers (clients) are clear about Community group in their 18 months old PCH plantation in Gulu. This group of 37 membersSPGS’s standards and also so that SPGS staff has received 20,000 seedlings from SPGS’s community support initiative (see Q.30 for details).have time to approve the FMP and conducta site visit before the planting proceeds. Over the last few years,• Taungya (growing agricultural crops in between the trees) ismany people rushed to plant in the hope of SPGS support later:not permitted under SPGS (NB. it is acceptable, however, tothey have all been disappointed and some have made costlyallow crops to be grown in advance of tree planting as a waymistakes through poor species selection and using poor qualityof clearing the land cheaply) – see Q.55.seed.8SPGS staff routinely carry out sample stocking surveys where the survival is clearly poor.SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 20105

Members of Kamusiime Pilot Rural Development Scheme in Bushenyi posing with SPGS’s CTA(Paul Jacovelli) in their excellent 4 yr old PCH plantation. This is a group of 22 people, mostof them women, that came together and combined their small pieces of land to make the requiredarea. They jointly planted 250 ha under SPGS Phase I, and have a contract to plant another150 ha in Phase II (see Q.29).26. What happens if I do not achieve myplanting targets as laid out in my contract?Already in Phase I of SPGS, there were contracted clients whoa). did not plant at all; or b). did not reach their planting targetsor c). did not reach the agreed standards. In the first case thecontracts were cancelled within a year of signing the contractand the funds offered to others. In the cases of those who didn’treach their targets or standards, the contracts were revised tomutually agreeable levels and some funds reallocated to otherplanters. SPGS encourages a spirit of open dialogue with clientsso that contracts can be adjusted to suit each investor’s situation.SPGS, however, is a target-driven organization and thus movesquickly to reallocate funds from non-performing clients to moreworthy growers who applied for support.SPGS funds are competitive: clients who do not perform aredropped from the Scheme. However, we are not unreasonablepeople: where unforeseen circumstances delay planting (e.g.poor rainfall or personal finance issues), this is taken into accountbut most poor performers often either have a lack of matchingcapital (or commitment) or are guilty of poor planning.D). APPLYING TO THE SPGS27. What is the minimum and maximum areafunded under SPGS?During the first phase of SPGS (2004-09), the minimum plantingarea funded was 25ha, the maximum 500ha (over a 2-3 yearestablishment period). For Phase II (2009-2013) the SPGS alsosupports those investors planting over 500ha – up to a ceilingof 3,000ha. For those potentialgrowers with less than 25ha, thereare other possibilities for SPGSsupport – see Q.29 & 30.28. SPGS only supportsrich people doesn’t it?Not true! The list of clients supportedfrom 2004 to date represents a realcross-section of society – bothlarge and small investors – the vastmajority being Ugandans with landholdings from 25-100 ha. SPGSencourages small landowners tojoin together to reach the minimum(see Q.29) or else to join togetherand apply for the SPGS communitysupport (Q.30). SPGS and UTGAstrongly believe that it is healthyto maintain a balance betweenthe large commercial growersand numerous small and mediumsized planters. The larger growersare able to invest more in terms oftechnology and staff developmentand will be the ones that willset up modern, efficient timberprocessingplants as the country’stimber crops mature. Thus havinga healthy balance between a fewlarger and many smaller privategrowers will be a sound basis forthe development of a sustainableand profitable forest-based industryin Uganda. All the commercial treegrowers under SPGS – big and small- are providing many thousands ofrural jobs too.29. Can I join together with other landowners tomake the minimum area?Certainly – and we actively encourage this, provided the groupform a formal Association or Partnership and have one electedrepresentative who will head the group. A living example isKamusiime Memorial Rural Development Pilot Scheme, acommunity-based organization in Bushenyi District. It wasformed in 1998 by 22 members of whom 14 are women.Kamusiime have planted 250ha to date (150ha under the SPGSfrom 2004-09) and are planning to plant a further 200ha in thenear future. They have achieved excellent standards of plantationestablishment to date.30. If I do not have 25ha, can SPGS help me?SPGS has a very active (and successful) community initiativeto support people who want to plant timber crops but do nothave sufficient land to access SPGS’s grant. Interested parties areencouraged to group together in a formal Association (min. 20members per Local Council village) who can then apply to SPGSfor assistance in the form of free seedlings and on-site technicaladvice. The success of SPGS community initiative (ca.1.4 milliontrees supplied to 135 groups all over Uganda) has lead to currentdemand far exceeding the project’s resources (in terms of budgetand staff time). Support for Phase II thus is more focused on areasclose to where the more commercial planters are based (seemap p.15). NB. SPGS has a simplified Community Tree PlantingGuideline available free of charge − (see SPGS office and www.sawlog.ug). We also have a woodlot initiative for institutions (seeQ.13).6 SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 2010

31. Do I need to have one block of land (25haor more) in one area in order to access SPGSsupport?No. You can have 2 or 3 blocks of land located on different areasor even in different districts for as long as they are reasonablybig enough and reasonably close together (for inspectionpurposes). As a guide, the sites should generally not be morethan 10 kms apart. Note also that if the sites are in differentgeographic locations, each site will need its own FMP..32. Do I have to be Ugandan to access SPGS?No. So long as you are serious about the venture and have metthe criteria laid out in the SPGS contract, it doesn’t matter whereyou are from – Uganda needs timber urgently! Note that onlyprivate sector individuals, companies or formal Associationsare eligible for the SPGS grant: we cannot support (financiallyat least) public institutions.33. Can I plant trees outside Uganda and stillbecome eligible for SPGS grant?No. SPGS supports only those plantations established withinUganda. However, the Scheme is very positive about regionalcollaboration, especially in area of Research and Development(R&D). SPGS has developed a strong ‘model’ which is workingand thus it is no surprise that it has attracted considerableinterest in from other countries. We would (ofcourse!) recommend that these countries set upsimilar schemes as an excellent way of engaging theprivate sector in commercial tree growing.management options and how they relate to ownership goalsand objectives.f) Activity schedule for recommendations: specifies a timelinefor management activities as well as the projected costs andother resource requirements.36. Does SPGS provide support for thisplanning phase?SPGS can only support potential clients in terms of soundtechnical advice but not directly with any funds for this planningphase. The FMP is a fairly technical document (see Annex 1)and may require professional advice: thus potential SPGS clientsmight need assistance to prepare their FMP. The NFA’s TechnicalService Division and a number of private contractors (contactUTGA for details – see Q.63) can help with the FMPs. SPGSstaff cannot personally prepare FMPs for applicants, but can offeradvice where needed.37. Do I have to prepare a FMP each time I getanother land in a different location?Yes. Depending on its size, you are expected to either revisethe current management plan so as to include the new areaor prepare a separate one altogether. Note that FMP needs tobe revised periodically to cater for any main changes that areundertaken.34. How do I sign up with SPGS?Following consultation with SPGS staff (to ensurethat the potential Client understands SPGS’srules and standards) you will be required toprepare a Forest Management Plan (FMP), whichshould outline your proposal and prove that youunderstand the commitment. If we are happy withthe FMP, one of SPGS staff will visit the site andif everything is acceptable (and provided thereare funds available for SPGS to commit itself) - acontract is then drawn up. The contract is betweenthe planter (the ‘Client’) and the Government ofUganda (GoU) represented by Permanent Secretaryof the Ministry of Water and Environment (theparent GoU Ministry of the SPGS). Then you canstart planting!35. What does the ForestManagement Plan entail?The FMP covers operational details as well asenvironmental and social issues. Annex 1 outlines theessentials of a FMP to guide potential new applicants.In summary it covers:-a) Ownership goals and management objectives:this is the heart of the plan and describes whatyou want to gain from your investment.b) Area description: a legal description of your land’slocation and area.c) Maps: help to describe the property and resourcesand may include topographic maps, soils maps,cover type or stand maps, and aerial photos, ifavailable.d) Resource inventory data: descriptions of keyfeatures e.g. water bodies, wildlife, vegetation,soils, topography and access.e) Management recommendations: detailedTrainees attentively listen to Celia Nalwadda, SPGS Senior Plantation Officerduring one of our practical training courses. Plantation managers andsupervisors learn how to implement the “SPGS standards” during such courses.SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 20107

E). LAND ISSUES38. Where should I locate my plantation?Plantation location is important for three main reasons:‣ The potential of the land to support high yielding treeplantations 9 .‣ The distance from the main market(s) – and usually this meansKampala – has a major influence on transport costs. Sawlogsare heavy, bulky items and transport costs constitute a majorpart of the forestry investment. As plantations are developedaround the country, however, sawmills will undoubtedly bedeveloped in the focus areas (i.e. regions where large plantationdevelopments are underway e.g. Luwero/Nakasongola,Mubende, Mbarara, Jinja/Mayuge etc.) – see map p.15.‣ The size of the potentially plantable land – since this hasimplications for economies of scale for many operations (e.g.where mechanization could be considered). The costs ofprotecting (from fires and theft) small, isolated stands over thewhole rotation will also be extremely high.39. What type of landcan I plant on?SPGS does not support theclearing of land with intactnatural forest on to establishplantations. Land with tropicalhigh forest or woodland that is notheavily degraded should rather beconserved. Only heavily degradedex-forest areas, sparsely woodedareas or grasslands are generallysuitable for tree plantations. SPGSstaff will visit all potential sitesprior to agreeing a contract toensure that no forests are clearedfor plantations. SPGS (workingwith UTGA and the UgandaCarbon Bureau) is also lookinginto the possibility of being ableto offer REDD 10 (Carbon-funds) tothose people with areas of naturalforest adjacent to land suitable forplantations.40. Can I plant on myown land using SPGSfunds?Yes. Private landowners can access SPGS provided you canprove to us that you have either the Title Deed to the area tobe planted or a letter from the Local Authorities confirming theownership of the land in question.41. Can I plant in a Central Forest Reserve?Yes. Many Central Forest Reserves (CFRs) around the country- under the management of NFA - are being made available forprivate planting. Long-term, tree planting licenses (or permits)are being offered in selected CFRs to encourage serious privatesector investment in timber plantations. For further details contactthe NFA staff in their regional offices or at NFA’s Headquarters 11in Kampala.9Refer SPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelines for further details.10 REDD – Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation11 NFA Headquarters located on plot 10/20 Spring Road, Bugolobi.12 Specific seed origins of P. oocarpa only – see Q. 49).13 E.g. Araucaria cunninghamii – Hoop pine.42. What conditions are attached to CFR leases?You have to pay an annual fee (on the area planted) to the NFA:the amount has been calculated in relation to the distance fromKampala and other main timber consuming up country townslike Mbarara, Mbale, Soroti, Masindi etc (most people are payingUGX9,800 per planted ha). Further conditions (e.g. performance)relating to the license agreements, are available from the NFA(see www.nfa.org.ug).43. What security will I have over my crop in aCFR?Once you have received the full SPGS payments (no later thanthree years after planting), the crop is yours - whether on privateland or in a CFR. SPGS expects no payback from your cropother than hope that you will continue to manage it well andeventually harvest timber from it. The NFA’s jurisdiction overthe management and harvesting of private growers’ tree cropsin CFRs is between the permit-holder and the NFA. UTGA isworking towards presenting a common voice for protecting theinterests of investors planting on CFRs.New Forests Company (NFC) plantation in Luwunga CFR, Kiboga. The NFA offers leases toserious investors in many of their degraded Central Forest Reserves around the country.G). TREE SPECIES, SEED &SEEDLINGS44. What tree species are supported by SPGS?The species permitted at present are: (NB. with most species,only specific seed origins of a species are permitted – see Q.49): Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis (PCH), P. oocarpa 12 , P.patula, Cupressus lusitanica, Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptushybrid clones, Maesopsis eminii(Musizi), Tectona grandis (Teak)Terminalia and Araucaria spp 13 . Other species will be considered,however, provided the primary objective is growing timber. TheSPGS will also from time to time change their rules on permittedspecies and seed sources as information becomes available fromtrials in Uganda or elsewhere. Care must be taken, however, toget only seedlings from SPGS approved seed sources (which formost pines and eucalypts means imported from seed orchards).Contact SPGS for advice on species and/or seed before youmake a costly mistake (see also the relevant Chapters in theTree Planting Guidelines, where the photographs clearly illustratethe importance of seed quality and species choice).8 SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 2010

45. What species can I grow on my land?This will depend on the locality of your site, the soils and theobjectives of your venture. Before you start looking for thespecies to grow, consult SPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelines - or askSPGS for advice. Two species account for the bulk of the timberplantations to date – namely, PCH and Eucalyptus grandis (thelatter on better sites). Numerous growers have made the costlymistake of planting some species on sites where they will neverperform well: this is particularly so for teak and Pinus patula,both of which have specific site requirements (teak only on lowaltitude sites with a pronounced dry season in Northern Ugandaand P. patula on high, cool sites like in South Western Uganda).46. Are Eucalyptus clones accepted by SPGSYes. Uganda Gatsby Trust is multiplying a number of hybridEucalyptus clones from South Africa, some of which have shownexceptional growth performance in areas where they have beentried. Care must be taken, however, to plant the right clone onthe right site. For further guidance about planting these clones,see the relevant Chapter in SPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelines.47. Does SPGS support planting of indigenoustrees like Mvule?Yes…. but only if you can show that the species can grow well in aplantation setting and is commercially viable. Musizi (Maesopsiseminii) is the only specie indigenous to Uganda that has so farshown good potential for commercial timber production. Otherslike Mvule, which take a very long time to mature, (and havenot proven performance in a plantation environment) may notbe commercial.48. What is the risk of pests and diseases killingmy exotic trees?Exotic trees are initially free from pest and disease attack, as theyhave been separated from their natural enemies back home andintroduced to a new environment. However, with time inevitablysome pests start appearing; like the Blue Gum Chalcid (BGC)affecting Eucalyptus in Uganda. The BGC (Leptocybe invasa) is atiny insect pest that is widespread in Uganda but seldom kills trees.The most affected trees are those that are stressed e.g. species onthe wrong sites, crops that have been planted late in the seasonor been poorly weeded. Following the recommendations inSPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelines will greatly reduce the threat ofEucalyptus seed stand in Fort Portal. This is the only local seedsources accepted by SPGS. Please note that SPGS does not acceptuse of locally collected PCH and P. oocarpa seed.BGC (and many other pests and diseases too). Since 2007, SPGShas also supported pest and disease research to look into ways ofreducing the threat pest and disease problems (see Q.61). SPGSNews has regular features on pests and diseases that threatentrees in UgandaSPGS staff question Simon Byenek, manager of the Uganda Gatsby Trust’sEucalyptus clonal nursery in Kifu Mukono, during the accreditation exercise. SPGShas a list of recommended nurseries where planters can buy high quality seedlings.SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 201049. What seed is permitted bySPGS?From the start, SPGS has insisted that its Clientsuse only certain seed sources – nearly all fromimproved sources. By improved we mean seedproduced from tree breeding programmes,where the parent trees have undergone rigorousselection for superior traits – most notably fastgrowth, good stem form and resistance tocertain pests and diseases. This is why seedfrom advanced breeding programmes (e.g.Forest Plantations Queensland’s pine researchwork since 1950’s) is so expensive. Manystudies have shown, however, that investingin improved seed makes sound business sense(provided the crops are managed well, ofcourse). Below is SPGS’s latest list of approvedseed sources: if you want to plant other timberspecies (or seed origins), obtain approval fromSPGS first.9

Table 3: SPGS RECOMMENDED SEED SOURCESSpecies Origin Price Ushs¹ Expected Notesper kg²PCH³ FPQ* Australia 3,200,000 35,000 From clonal seed orchards.PCH Brazil 1,400,000 20,000 Seed production stands.P. oocarpa³ Brazil 850,000 25,000 Seed production stands.P. patula NFA SW Ug. 500,000 35,000 No Improved seed availableE. grandis Fort Portal 90,000 150,000 Seed stand. Uncleaned seed.E. grandis South Africa ? 2,000,000 Seed orchard. Cleaned seed.Musizi Uganda 50,000 400 No improved seed available.Terminalia spp. Uganda 50,000 4,000 No improved seed available.Hoop Pine FPQ Australia ? 3,000 Seed orchard seed¹ Check most recent SPGS News (p.2) for price updates.² Always check with seed supplier first (from germination tests on each seed batch).³ Locally collected PCH and P. oocarpa seed not permitted (all good parent trees havebeen cut).* Forest Plantations Queensland (formerly Dept. of Primary Industries Forestry).† Araucaria cunninghamii.50. Where do I purchase the approved seed?The organizations importing improved seed into Uganda includeSPGS, NFA’s National Tree Seed Centre (NTSC), UTGA andthe larger, private forestry companies. As most small growerslook to the NTSC, it is important to note that NTSC also sellsunimproved, locally collected seed of the main commercialspecies and this is certainly not recommended for commercialgrowers, whether under SPGS or not. Wherever the seed comesfrom, it must comply with SPGS’s rules: a Certificate of SeedOrigin should always be requested from the supplier.To import seed, an Import Permit (from the Ministry of Agriculture)and a Phytosanitary Certificate (from the supplier) will be required.Over the last 3 years, seed has been imported from varioussources - mostly PCH from Australia, South Africa (Mondi) andBrazil (Shuckhar Seeds). E. grandis seed has also been importedfrom South Africa (Mondi). NB. SPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelineshas further details on seed supply and handling.51. Why does Uganda have to import costly seed?From around the 1960’s, the Ugandan Forest Department (UFD)initiated a series of trials and introductions of likely timberspecies throughout the country – this included many tropicalpine species. Whilst these trials showed the potential of certainspecies (especially PCH, P. oocarpa and E. grandis), it is now clearthat many of these initial introductions (using unselected seedfrom natural populations) were not from the best provenances(i.e. seed sources). It is also a sad fact that all of these trials andblock plantings have now disappeared so that virtually all of thesuperior individual trees that might have been used for a breedingprogramme, have long since been turned into planks!53. Can’t I harvest seed frommy trees which were plantedusing improved seed?Unfortunately, the answer is No. Whereas,the mother tree may look very good,we cannot guarantee the quality of the“father” tree, which could be any poortree in or around your plantation. In brief,the quality of seed from such a stand doesnot automatically match the quality of themother stand.54. Do I have to start my ownnursery?Before rushing to start your own nursery,we would strongly recommend that youread the relevant section in SPGS’s TreePlanting Guidelines. This will help youmake the decision as to whether it makessense to establish your own nursery or topurchase your seedlings from one of thegrowing number of commercial nurseries(both NFA and private ones) around thecountry. Wherever your seedlings arecoming from though, ensure that you verify the seed source first(see Q.49) or you could invalidate your contract.55. Which nurseries can supply us with highquality seedlings?There are a number of SPGS recommended nurseries throughoutthe country. In 2010 SPGS has embarked on an accreditationscheme for commercial private nurseries, where certified52. Are there plans to raise our own improvedseed here?Due to poor management over the past years, most of the seedstands with all the best trees have been harvested for timber.Currently, there is no formal Tree Improvement Programme (TIP)to address this problem. Starting an applied TIP in Uganda hasbeen prioritized by SPGS but it will inevitably take time andexpertise to produce any results (see Q.61). It will undoubtedlybe many years before Uganda can produce its own superiorbreeding material: in the meantime commercial growers have torely on imported seed only.Ugandans are now seeing the benefits of using improved treeseed to establish fast growing, high yielding plantations like this5 year old PCH stand at Besepo (U) Ltd in Mubende. The seedused was from clonal seed orchards in Australia.10 SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 2010

nurseries which meet the standards,like using the right seed (See Q.51)will be issued with certificates. See theNursery Chapter in SPGS’s Tree PlantingGuidelines, the Nursery Corner in thequarterly SPGS News or the Nurserysection on our web site www.sawlog.ugfor a list of these nurseries. Please notethat we strongly discourage commercialplanters from buying seedlings at smallroadside nurseries, as the source ofseed is questionable.56. Can I grow agriculturalcrops with the trees to reduceestablishment costs?This is another very common question– and the answer is a clear No. Thispractice known as ‘taungya’ over thepast 30 years or so in Uganda has- almost without exception - failed toproduce decent timber plantationslargely because the people growingtheir food crops have no interest inyour trees. Thus SPGS does not allowits planters to use taungya. We allowyou to clear land and plant food cropsfor no more than one year ahead of treeplanting but once the trees are plantedthere must be no crops cultivated. The only exception to thisrule is with Musizi (Maesopsis eminii) or Terminalia spp., whenplanted at wider spacings (e.g. 4x4m or more): then specific (i.e.low) crops can be grown in the inter-row (but not within 1meither side of the tree seedlings). Read the Chapter in SPGS’s TreePlanting Guidelines to better understand this issue.F). OTHER TECHNICALSUPPORT57. How much technical support does SPGSprovide?A reasonable amount of technical support is availabledepending on size and location of your plantation. Normally,someone from the SPGS team will visit the proposed plantingsite with the applicant and once contracted under SPGS,routine site inspections are made at approximately 3-6 monthintervals, depending on the size (and progress) of the plantationdevelopment. At least one of the experienced SPGS staff willalways be present at these visits and a detailed report is given tothe planter to encourage improved standards. Other support isavailable in our practical training courses (Q.60), Tree PlantingGuidelines (p.2) and office consultations.58. Are there forestry contracting firms to helpestablish and maintain my plantation?Forestry contracting is in its infancy in Uganda, which ishardly surprising given the long time period that has elapsedwithout any serious tree planting here. There are encouragingsigns, however, that some small-scale, forestry contractors arebeginning to emerge. In 2009/10, SPGS organized contractortraining courses (the four modules being: Labour Management,Plantation Silviculture, Contract Management and Small BusinessSkills) and will hopefully refine and continue these provided thedemand is there (NB. future training needs will be discussed withUTGA and SPGS clients early during Phase II).A well organised (and equipped) contractor spraying team in Swaziland. SPGS isworking together with Uganda’s upcoming contractors to raise their quality of work andorganisation; so as to supply a reliable source of labour for commercial forestry investors.59. Where can I get more information on treeplanting?SPGS has become the principle source of information on mattersrelating to commercial plantations in Uganda.The project has two Technical Advisors with many yearsexperience in the world of commercial plantation forestry andnow has a team of very capable, young graduate foresters withwide experience to advise planters. Since 2005, SPGS startedpublishing a series of practical Plantation Guidelines, whichwere (in mid-2009) all updated and compiled into SPGS’s TreePlanting Guidelines (see p.2). This important publication (andother information) is available from SPGS’s office and on its website– www.sawlog.ug . The project also produces an informative,full-colour newsletter – SPGS News - every three months: makesure you are on the project’s database to receive regular copies(free of charge!) by sending an email to info@sawlog.ug60. Does SPGS offer any training?Yes. SPGS runs a series of practical training courses, which arevery relevant to private tree growers (priority is always givento SPGS clients and community leaders where the project issupporting tree growing). Courses are run throughout the yearand to date have included:‣ Plantation Planning & Establishment(4 days).‣ Plantation Maintenance (4 days).‣ Fire Protection (1-2 days).‣ Safe Use of Herbicides (1 day).‣ Thinning and/or Pruning(1-2 days).‣ Tree Nursery Establishment and Management (4 days).Where there is an obvious need (or a request from the public),SPGS will always consider organizing other courses too. Westrongly advise all SPGS clients to either attend themselves orsend their key staff on these courses as they teach people howto attain the standards expected under SPGS. SPGS clients areeligible for subsidized places on these courses: normally experttuition and course materials are provided free and the clients payfor accommodation, food and transport to and from the venue.SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 201011

Eng. Ephraim Kisembo, shares his experience with fellow commercial tree planters visitinghis plantation during an SPGS organised clients’ safari in Masindi (Aug. 2010). Thesemeetings offer wonderful opportunities for open learning and exchanging of ideas.63. What is therelationship betweenSPGS and the UgandaTimber Growers’Association (UTGA)?UTGA is an independent tradeorganization formed in 2007,to represent the interests ofcommercial private tree growers.UTGA’s objectives are highlycomplimentary to those ofSPGS: SPGS is itself an Associatemember of UTGA and stronglysupports the organisation.UTGA is already showingpromising signs of becoming apermanent and indispensablesupport organization for allprivate tree growers in Uganda.SPGS urges all private growersin Uganda (both large andsmall) to join UTGA: for moreinformation see www.utga.net ,email: info@utga.net or tel. 0772435 353.61. Does SPGS provide research support forgrowers?Early in 2008 SPGS initiated the formation of COMFORT(Commercial Forestry Research & Training Steering Group),which includes the main players from public and private sector.COMFORT has started a serious debate on the importance ofhaving professional research to support the commercial treegrowers in Uganda. The COMFORT group has already prioritizedthe key research areas as follows:‣ An applied Tree Improvement Programme (see Q.52):including species and clonal trials; tree breeding and pestsand disease work).‣ Silvicultural trials (e.g. weeding,spacing and fertilizers).‣ Utilisation and market research (NB.with an initial focus on small diameter,thinning material).64. Where do I get more information on SPGSfrom?The main source of up to date information is SPGS News andthe periodic field meetings organized by the project. If youare not registered on our database, please do so to continuereceiving our publications. You can also visit our web sitewww.sawlog.ug where all our publications are available to viewor download.For more information or to arrange a meeting with one of theproject’s staff, see contact details on p.16.SPGS has already commissioned anumber of studies of great relevance togrowers – e.g. on pests and diseases (Drs.le Roux & Slippers, (FABI, 2007) and DrNyeko (MAKFoF, 2008)); incentives (LTS/SDC, 2005); bioenergy (Unique ForestryConsultants, 2007)). All these reportsare available at www.sawlog.ug. SPGSwill continue to fund focused R&D workbut will also lobby for increased (Stateand private) funding for further appliedresearch work to better support growers.62. What is the relationshipbetween the NFA and SPGS?Since 2006 SPGS has been completelyseparate from the NFA. SPGS officiallyoperates within the Forest Sector SupportDivision in the Ministry of Water andEnvironment although it is based in itsown office on Plot 92 Luthuli Avenue,Bugolobi in Kampala. SPGS, however,still maintains a good working relationshipwith the NFA.Mohammed Skeyewa, an SPGS supported planter in Masaka. Uganda urgentlyneeds 75,000 ha of well managed timber plantations by 2020 just to meet its internaldemand, of which we only have 30,000 ha. The private sector, with support frominitiatives like SPGS, is expected to produce most of this timber.12 SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 2010

ANNEXFOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN – AN OUTLINE FOR SPGS APPLICANTS*1. BUSINESS PLAN / MOTIVATION1.1. Objectives: what are the objectives of your treeplanting business? E.g. – sawlogs, pulpwood,transmission poles, fencing poles, etc. Explainwhy you are planning to invest in planting trees.1.2. Profitability: you need to know whether youwill make a reasonable profit out of this businessventure and you also need to think carefully aboutthe time-scale of the venture. Therefore, you needto look at what it will cost you over the rotationperiod against what future income you expectfrom the project. Bearing in mind that your moneycould be doing something else, even just sitting ina bank earning interest. Things to consider are:where is the money coming from?; if borrowed,what are the interest implications?; how muchmoney will you need for manpower, equipment,land rent or capital requirements? NB: details canbe included in Section 6.2. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION2.1. Promoters: provide all the details of who is investing– whether it is an individual, a formal Association ora Company. Provide copies of legal status. We alsoneed details of land ownership; if planning to plant onprivate land, provide copies of land title(s); if on otherland (e.g. an NFA Central Forest Reserve), provideevidence of lease or planting permit agreements.2.2. Area and location (include map): where isthe land to be developed for your tree planting?Describe where it is and under which districts etc.it falls. Include a map indicating the boundariesof the property.2.3. Climatic conditions: temperature and rainfallare the most important factors influencing: (a)which species you can grow on your site and (b)how fast these species should grow. Data shouldbe obtained from national or preferably localrecords (check if there is any meteorological dataavailable close by to the planting site); we needto know average temperatures by month and forrainfall, the annual amount plus the averagemonthly distribution.2.4. Site description: here describe the topography(i.e. the lie of the land) – e.g. is the area flat orhilly; are there areas that cannot (e.g. solid rockoutcrops) or should not (wetlands; intact highforest or woodland) be planted?2.5. Soil conditions: here describe the main soilconditions of the site.2.6. Site-species matching: from a combinationof your objectives and the prevailing climate andsite conditions at your site, you need to decide onthe species choice: detail the species you expect toplant and explain the reasons for your choice.3. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT3.1. Positive and negative impacts on theecology: are there any areas of high conservationinterest (e.g. wetland, intact natural forest orrare species)? What is happening on the landat the moment, before you plant it up? What ishappening on the land adjacent to the area youare planning to plant on?3.1.1. Natural vegetation / biodiversity: here describethe types of vegetation in the area to be plantedand the areas that need to be protected.3.1.2. Wetlands and rivers: these need to be mappedand planned around, there are laws that restrictyou from planting to close to them. Wetlandboundaries should be clearly delineated3.1.3. Steep slopes: steep slopes need to be managedspecifically: they are sensitive to erosion and someareas are inaccessible so how are you going to getthe timber out?3.1.4. Use of herbicides: if you are going to use herbicidesyou must plan on getting your people trained,having proper storage facilities and to keep properrecords.3.1.5. Road construction: roads will be needed for access,fire protection and eventually to enable the logs toget to market. Poorly aligned and designed roadscan cause serious erosion so it is always a goodidea to get someone who knows what they aredoing. The bulldozer driver says that he has lotsof experience but a badly laid out road is a costlymistake to make.3.2. Socio-economic considerations3.2.1. Cultural sites: are there places of special culturalsignificance on the land that need to be protected?This includes graves and other areas of importanceto the local communities. Communities may havea right to visit such sites and this needs to beclearly documented.* For technical guidance on many of these matters, refer to SPGS’s Tree Planting Guidelines (2009) - see p.2SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 201013

3.2.2. Access to forest products: again there may be acultural or moral right to allow local communitiesto collect forest products such as firewood. Youneed to document and understand these rights.Also make sure that it will be done in a sustainablemanner.3.2.3. Squatters or encroachers: document whetherthere are squatters or encroachers on the landyou intend to plant. If so, describe how you areplanning to deal with them. NB. remember thatgood relations with one’s neighbours will becrucial for the success of your forestry venture.3.2.4. Labour needs/availability: you need to knowwhether you are going to be using local labour orpeople from outside the area. Both options haveimplications such as transport, housing, feedingand so forth. Also document and investigate howmuch you will be paying for the work being done.Investigate a comparable wage in that area.Have you calculated the number of workers youwill need (not necessarily full-time)? Have youidentified an Supervisor or Field Manager whowill supervise the field operations?3.2.5. Training: outline your Training Plan forSupervisor and labourers (NB. the Supervisormust understand the SPGS Guidelines and shouldhave at least attended SPGS’s Planning andEstablishment training course). NB. Key staffmust be trained before using any chemicals ordangerous tools (e.g. chainsaws).4. PLANTATION ESTABLISHMENTThe following main Sections (4 & 5) deal withdetailed operations that have to be carried outfor successful plantation establishment. Foreach activity, you must give a brief descriptionof how you are planning to carry them out andalso indicate the timing of each main activity(a operational time-chart is recommended). Allthis is important for your management plan butalso for your budgeting and resource planning.NB. refer to the SPGS Plantation Guidelines forguidance.4.1. Survey and land demarcation4.1.1. Estimating size of forest estate:4.1.2. Marking external and internal boundaries:Both internal and external boundaries should bemarked and mapped: compartments (separateblocks not larger than 30 ha) form the basis forsubsequent planning of activities.4.1.3. Surveying terrain and vegetation condition:4.2. Land clearing: this usually includes clearing theexisting vegetation on the site to a level where thesubsequent operations (lining out, pitting, weeding,planting, etc) can take place without hindrance.Burning should only be done as a last resort andthen should be done in cool conditions to minimizedamage to the site. Look at the different optionsavailable to you, the cost implications and whatyou have the capacity to do. Often a combinationof methods will be needed. Plan ahead so that youtime the completion of the clearing to be done justbefore the site preparation is due to begin.4.3. Chemicals: note whether you are planning touse chemicals (herbicides and/or pesticides), preand post-plant. If so, list them (the chemical activeingredient rather than Trade Name) and detailyour plans for use, including training, protectiveequipment, storage and disposal of containers.4.4. Lining out: detail your planned stocking levels(stems per ha or sph): e.g. 3m x 3m will give you1111 sph. Regarding the alignment of rows, ona slope, the rows should follow the contour; onflat areas the rows will be perpendicular to theroads.4.5. Pitting: make sure that the pit specifications areknow to the labour, we recommend 25cm deep by25cm across.4.6. Seedlings: are you planning to purchase yourseedlings from an external nursery or developyour own nursery? If buying seedlings, they mustbe from a nursery recommended by SPGS and youmust obtain evidence that they are using only theseed approved by SPGS. How will you transportthe seedlings to your site?4.7. Planting: describe how you will ensure successfulplanting.4.8. Beating Up: describe your plans for a stockingassessment and replacing failures (within 2 weeksfor eucalypts, 4 weeks with pines).5. PLANTATION MAINTENANCE5.1. Weeding: detail your weeding plan by type (e.g.manual – line, spot or slashing; chemical and/ormechanical) and frequency.5.2. Pruning: record your plans for pruning over thelife-span of your crop(s).5.3. Thinning: similarly, record your plans forthinning (NB. thinning to the recommendedstocking is essential for maximizing the productionof large trees).5.4. Road construction: road construction andmaintenance needs to be planned ahead andrecorded in the management plan.14 SPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 2010

5.5. Fire protection: identifying the risk from firesand what you need to mitigate that risk is veryimportant. You will need equipment and peoplefor fire prevention, fire spotting and fire fighting.5.6. Protection from animals: what is the policyon wildlife that may occur on your land, especiallywith regard to hunting? Make sure that you complywith the law.6. FINANCIAL ANALYSIS TABLES6.1. Source of funding and amortization6.2. Projected working capital requirements6.3. Manpower requirements and costs6.4. Projected sales6.5. Projected operating costs6.6. Projected income statement6.7. Projected cash flow and liquidity6.8. Discounted cash flow and rate of return6.9. Projected balance sheetPLANTATION ‘CLUSTERS’SPGS Phase II (2009-2013) – 6 Focus AreasSPGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - v.6 – OCT. 201015

NEED MOREINFORMATION?How To Find UsThe main source of up to dateinformation is the SPGS NewsletterSPGS News (published quarterly)and the periodic field meetingsorganized by the project. If youare not registered on our database,please do so to continue receivingour publications. You can also visitour web site www.sawlog.ug whereall our publications are available toview or download.NEWS OF THE COMMERCIAL FORESTSECTOR IN UGANDAwww.sawlog.ug P.O Box 5244 Kampala. Plot 92 Luthuli Avenue, Bugolobi, Kampala.Email info@sawlog.ugTel. 0312 265 332/3. Fax. 0312-265 334.www.sawlog.ugMake sure you receive your copy of SPGSNews every 3 months.Did this publication answer your questions on SPGS? Feedback,comments and suggestions to improve our information service areencouraged, and should be sent to: info@sawlog.ugGreen Resources Ltd’s (Busoga Forest Co.) planting in Mayuge: Replanting a decimated CFR with SPGS support.