Anambra to plant 2 million trees

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To control erosion in the state

The Anambra State government, on Wednesday, said it had procured about 1.5 million seedlings from the Federal Government’s initiative on afforestation, as part of its concluded plans to raise an army of two million economic and erosion control trees in the state.

This was revealed by the state Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Mike Egbebuike, who said the trees would be planted in celebration of the 2012 World Environment Day on  June 5.

Egbebuike said that 500,000 seedlings were acquired from the state government’s forest reserve.

He expressed hope that the seedlings, which would be transplanted in various towns and communities in the state, would help reduce some of the ecological problems facing the state.

According to him, the state has more than 500 documented erosion sites and the lack of tree covers and deforestation contribute to most of the ecological problems ravaging the state.

“So having a big tree with a big cover will not only protect the soil but also help in creating jobs,” he said.

He maintained, however, that the ministry was collaborating with the Presidents-General of the 177 communities of the state to ensure the success of the planting project.

 “We believe that we cannot achieve anything without involving the communities. They are to take ownership of the project and that is how the trees can be protected.”

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