THE RAINMAKERS
Researchers have found greater rainfall in areas of Haiti
that have been reforested. The reason : The roots of trees
draw moisture from the ground, and the leaves release it
into the air. Thus more moisture leads to more rainfall.
Other advantages: The cooler microclimate under a tree
canopy reduces exposure to heat stress and provides the
aesthetic pleasure of a greener landscape.
FOREST LOSS
For a long time Haiti was one of the
world’s most severely deforested
countries. Newly planted trees had
only a 30% chance of survival.LIFESAVERS
Reforestation has brought insects, birds,
and other animal life back to Haiti. The
trees’ roots also prevent erosion and help
preserve the fertile topsoil.FROM WASTELAND TO WOODS
After signifi cant success in Africa and Asia, agronomist
Tony Rinaudo has launched a project in Haiti (satellite
photo) to re-create the kind of miracle he achieved in
Niger. The new trees in Haiti are starting to flourish
(on the right side of the image).ideasanddiscoveries.com 9 May 2020