Integrated Environmental Assessment of Frankincense Tree Associations in the Jabel Samhan Reserve of the Sultanate of Oman

(Ali Salem, a Muslim house of Said and the names of Ali and Mohammed Suleiman Abahsain Abido and Hisham Mohamed Monsef)

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Abstract

Jabel Samhan reserve in the mountains of Dhofar of Sultanate Oman is characterized by being a habitat for frankincense trees Boswellia sacra Flueck that are exposed to anthropogenic and natural pressures; which endanger trees survival. The present study aims to conduct an integrated environmental assessment of frankincense tree stands using DPSIR framework (driving forces, pressure, state, impact, responses). Assessment included; delineating frankincense tree distribution using GPS, measuring density of trees using nearest individual method, and estimating tree production in a traditional tapping method. Evaluation also included analysis of conservation policies as well as the role of local communities in maintaining a sustainable production of frankincense. Results showed that frankincense trees cover 50% of the protected area with an average density of 2.3 tree/ha. A substantial decline in tree density was noted by as much as 85% over the past 13 years. Average tree production of frankincense in the southern valleys of the reserve was 3.3 kg/year. Questionnaire results showed that grazing is the main source of income for locals; followed by government jobs and marine fisheries. On the other hand; percentage of locals working in frankincense tapping was 17%. Thirty four percent of locals believe that tree deterioration is a result of drought whereas, 32% and 25% attributed the cause to tapping method and frequent over-tapping of trees respectively. Only 9% singled out overgrazing as a cause of degradation. Numerous legislations concerning conservation of biological diversity were noted however, they did not curb the deterioration of frankincense trees. Aside from poor implementation, legislations were mostly supervisory or regulatory in nature, with limited use of economic tools. The increasing number of residents adjacent to reserve, economic development, and government support for industries associated with frankincense, represent major causes of the deterioration of the trees. Sustainability scenario is considered to be the best option to maintain the sustainability of frankincense trees and their habitats. A number of policies seeking to curb the decline of frankincense tree habitats and deterioration of trees were suggested. These include; revision of natural reserves and Biodiversity Conservation Act, enforcement of rangelands and livestock management law, building a database of local communities and their herds, sources of income, craft-based products and environmental services provided by the reserve. Developing an action plan to conserve frankincense trees and giving it a priority in implementation are of prime importance. Key Words: biodiversity, DPSIR matrix, hojari frankincense, legislation, policy analysis, vegetation cover.
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