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Task 1: Identify Native Species - Project Template

Part of: Plan Section (Vision → Plan → Reality)
Type: Template/Playbook for Small Plot Restoration
Status: Template - Customize for Your Project

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Purpose​

Identifying the right native species is the foundation of successful reforestation. Native species are adapted to local conditions and play essential roles in the ecosystem, supporting local wildlife and maintaining ecological balance.

This is a template. Customize species lists based on your specific region, climate, and ecosystem type.

🎯 Non-Negotiables (Science Consensus)​

These must be followed - they are based on scientific consensus:

  1. Native Species Only: Only native tree and shrub species should be selected. Non-native species can disrupt ecosystem function and outcompete natives.

  2. Site-Appropriate Selection: Species must be selected based on actual site conditions (soil, climate, water availability). Planting inappropriate species will fail.

  3. Diversity Required: Multiple species must be selected, not monocultures. Diverse species mixes are ecologically stable and resilient.

  4. Local Provenance: When possible, use locally-sourced seeds/seedlings from the same region. Local genetic material is best adapted to local conditions.

  5. Documentation: All species selections must be documented with scientific names and rationale. This is essential for tracking and adaptive management.

🔀 Options & Pathways​

Pathway A: Professional Ecological Assessment​

When to use: Larger projects, when scientific credibility is needed, grant-funded projects, research partnerships

Approach:

  • Hire professional ecologist or botanist
  • Comprehensive species list based on site assessment
  • Reference site comparisons
  • Historical vegetation research
  • Scientific validation

Pros:

  • Most scientifically sound
  • Credible for grants
  • Comprehensive species list
  • Professional validation

Cons:

  • Higher cost (€500-2,000)
  • Requires professional expertise
  • May take longer

Pathway B: Community Science & Local Knowledge​

When to use: Smaller projects, limited budget, strong local naturalist community, educational focus

Approach:

  • Consult local naturalist groups (NABU, etc.)
  • Use citizen science platforms (iNaturalist, etc.)
  • Engage local botanists and ecologists as volunteers
  • Research regional native plant lists
  • Integrate traditional/local knowledge

Pros:

  • Lower cost (€0-500)
  • Builds community engagement
  • Integrates local knowledge
  • Educational value

Cons:

  • May miss some species
  • Less comprehensive
  • Requires coordination
  • May need expert validation

Pathway C: Hybrid Approach​

When to use: Most projects - balance of professional guidance and local knowledge

Approach:

  • Professional assessment for key species
  • Local knowledge for additional species
  • Expert review of final list
  • Community input on priorities

Pros:

  • Good balance of quality and cost
  • Integrates multiple knowledge sources
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Engages community

Cons:

  • Requires coordination
  • May need ongoing consultation

📋 Implementation Steps​

Step 1: Research Native Flora​

Information Sources:

  • Local conservation organizations
  • University botany departments
  • Regional botanical gardens
  • Government forestry agencies
  • Historical vegetation surveys

Key Resources:

  • Plant databases (e.g., Native Plant Societies)
  • Regional flora guides
  • Academic publications on local ecology
  • Traditional ecological knowledge from elders

Step 2: Assess Site Conditions​

Climate Factors:

  • Average annual rainfall
  • Temperature ranges (extremes and averages)
  • Frost patterns and growing season
  • Wind exposure
  • Microclimate variations

Soil Characteristics:

  • Soil type and texture
  • pH levels
  • Drainage patterns
  • Organic matter content
  • Existing vegetation indicators

→ Reference: Assess Soil Health

Step 3: Evaluate Species Suitability​

For Each Potential Species, Consider:

Growth Characteristics:

  • Growth rate (fast vs. slow)
  • Mature size (height and spread)
  • Root system type (deep taproot vs. shallow)
  • Lifespan and longevity

Climate Adaptation:

  • Drought tolerance
  • Heat tolerance
  • Cold hardiness
  • Wind resistance
  • Fire resistance (where relevant)

Ecological Role:

  • Food source for wildlife (fruit, nuts, flowers)
  • Habitat value (nesting, shelter)
  • Soil improvement (nitrogen-fixing, deep roots)
  • Water management (transpiration, infiltration)

Site Match:

  • Soil type preferences
  • Water requirements
  • Light requirements (sun, shade, partial)
  • Successional stage (pioneer vs. climax)

Step 4: Create Species List​

Document for Each Species:

  • Scientific name (required)
  • Common name(s)
  • Site suitability rating
  • Ecological role
  • Availability (can you source it?)
  • Cost estimate
  • Planting priority

Ensure Diversity:

  • Multiple canopy layers (trees, shrubs, understory)
  • Different successional stages
  • Various ecological functions
  • Mix of fast and slow growers
  • Different sizes and forms

Step 5: Validate and Refine​

Expert Review:

  • Have ecologist or botanist review list
  • Check against regional native plant lists
  • Verify site appropriateness
  • Adjust based on feedback

Final Selection:

  • Prioritize based on site conditions
  • Ensure diversity
  • Consider availability and cost
  • Plan for phased planting if needed

💡 Customization Notes​

When using this template for your project:

  1. Regional Species: Replace generic examples with species native to your specific region

  2. Climate Adaptation: Select species adapted to your climate (consider climate change projections)

  3. Site Conditions: Match species to your actual soil, water, and light conditions

  4. Ecosystem Type: Choose species appropriate for your target ecosystem (forest, woodland, savanna, etc.)

  5. Availability: Consider what species you can actually source - availability may limit choices

  6. Local Knowledge: Engage local experts and community members who know the area

Remember: This is a template. Your actual project will have specific species native to your region that make it unique.

Next Steps​

Once species are identified: → Task 2: Source Seedlings

Remember: The right species in the right place is the foundation of successful reforestation.

This is a template. Customize it for your project.