A research group at the University of Huelva has determined that the soil of a score of eucalyptus trees studied not only has not suffered negative impacts, but also shows a remarkable stability in the balance of nutrients and an improvement in pH, which results in an improvement in its quality. This is stated after evaluations carried out in a series of plots installed on productive forest plantations in the province of Huelva, which have been studied since 2011.
According to the analyzes carried out in the last two years, there is a progressive increase in the levels of organic matter in the soil, both on the surface and in depth. These results confirm, in eucalyptus plantations from Huelva, what other studies on eucalyptus had already confirmed: this species is capable of improving forest soils. In particular, it is the decomposition of the abundant litter at its feet, fundamentally, which acts by improving the nutritional base of the soils, to which it contributes especially calcium and magnesium.
“Study of the nutrient cycle in Eucalyptus globulus plantations for biomass production” is the name of this research project developed by the Department of Agroforestry Sciences of the University of Huelva in collaboration with the Department of Forestry R&D of Ence . The fundamental objective has been to evaluate the sustainability, from the nutritional point of view, in soils under eucalyptus plantations in production for the use of wood and biomass.
For Ence, this project is of great relevance since it allows it to reinforce the monitoring and have the information it needs to apply a management model that guarantees the sustainability of its forest production model, as well as to maintain the demanding certifications of sustainable forest management that they credit their work.
Ence manages in Andalusia, mainly in Huelva and Seville, 35,960 hectares of eucalyptus forest dedicated to the production of wood and biomass, and some 11,900 hectares of Mediterranean forest on which it actively works for its improvement and conservation.
Ence’s forest heritage in Spain, some 66,000 hectares, is certified by the most advanced international standards in sustainable forest management and traceability and chain of custody, such as PEFC (Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) in 84%, and FSC ® (Forest Stewardship Council® with license number FSC-C081854) by 75%.
