Report of the Second Regional Workshop held at CATIE, Turrialba, Costa Rica 18-20 November 1996 Aj 82435 LOCKAC. Copals ALG Contents Page No Introduction 1 Presentations 3 Working Group Reports 17 Closing Remarks 21 ANNEXES Annex 1: Workshop Agenda 23 Annex 2: Participants List 25 Annex 3: Tree Conservation Information Service 29 Annex 4: Guidelines for the application of the 1994 IUCN Red List Categories to Trees 41 Annex 5: Conservation Evaluations for selected Widespread Tree Species 55 Annex 6: Draft Species Summaries 59 Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2010 with funding from UNEP-WCMC, Cambridge http://www.archive.org/details/conservationsust96wcmc Introduction This Workshop was convened by the World Conservation Monitoring Centre (WCMC) as part of the joint WCMC and IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) project entitled the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees, funded by the Government of the Netherlands. The Workshop had three objectives: e to review existing information on the conservation status of Neotropical tree species and to coordinate the collection of additional information on species of conservation concern; ° to advise on the development of a Tree Conservation Information Service appropriate for national, regional and international needs; e to discuss SSC activities in relation to trees of the Neotropics. The Workshop Agenda is given in Annex 1 to this report and the participants list is provided in Annex 2. The Workshop was chaired by Sara Oldfield who welcomed participants on behalf of WCMC and SSC and thanked them for information already provided as a contribution to the project. She expressed thanks to the Government of the Netherlands for their generous funding of the Workshop and thanked CATIE for their hospitality and help with the organisation of the meeting. Particular thanks were given to Javier Zamora, Bryan Finnegan, Elizabeth Mora and Tania Ammour. Dr Markku Kanninen, Director of CATIE’s Research Program, welcomed participants on behalf of CATIE and outlined the work of the organisation in three focal areas of germplasm research, education and outreach. Sara Oldfield thanked Dr Kanninen. She pointed out that the Workshop would be conducted in an open and informal manner and any staff from CATIE were welcome to join the discussions and share their expertise. Sara Oldfield then gave an introduction to the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project and presented five background documents to aid discussions during the Workshop. Working Document 1 Tree Conservation Information Service - data management issues. Working Document 2 Guidelines for the application of the 1994 IUCN red list categories to trees. This is designed to be read in conjunction with the JUCN Red List Categories booklet. Working Document 3 Sustainable use and conservation of tree species - a summary of the consultancy report prepared by Adrian Newton. Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Working Document 4 Working Document 5 List of globally threatened tree species of the Americas - based on information contained within the WCMC Plants Database. This incorporates information provided by the Nature Conservancy, according to the Memorandum of Agreement Tree species for conservation evaluation - draft profiles of widespread heavily utilised tree species for evaluation of conservation status. Presentations 1 Introduction to the Project - Sara Oldfield The Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project is a three-year collaborative project. WCMC and SSC are the main partners, working with a wide range of other national, regional and international organisations. The goal of the project is to provide a reliable and up-to-date information service on the distribution, conservation status, local uses and economic values of tree species worldwide, in order to assist countries in the planning of sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation, through appropriate international or intergovernmental processes. This is clearly an ambitious goal but should be fully achievable given the existing strengths of WCMC and SSC. Conservation data at WCMC are gathered from a wide variety of sources, and are managed and maintained in a series of databases and made available to Governmental, Intergovernmental and Nongovernmental users worldwide. Databases maintained at WCMC include: The Biodiversity Map Library, a geographical interface which allows rapid access to a wide range of mapped information on the world’s biodiversity. Global coverage of tropical moist forests are, for example, maintained and the collection of data on tropical dry forests is a current priority. The Protected Areas Database which has over 37,000 records and nearly 5000 individual site sheets. The WCMC CITES Trade Database, maintained on behalf of the CITES Secretariat The Animals database which is used to compile the JUCN Red List of Threatened Animals in collaboration with SSC. The WCMC Plants Database which currently records information on the distribution and status of over 100,000 plants; 30,000 of which are globally threatened. Information stored in the WCMC Plants Database is the starting point for information collection in the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project. Data collection for the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project is being undertaken in collaboration with SSC’s network of experts worldwide. SSC is one of the six volunteer commissions of IUCN, the World Conservation Union. The mission of the SSC is to conserve biological diversity by developing and executing programs to save, restore and manage wisely species and their habitats. The existing SSC Groups for trees are the Temperate Broadleaved Trees Specialist Group and the Conifer Specialist Group. One of the aims of this project is to develop further SSC Tree Specialist Groups. The Conifer Specialist Group has evaluated the conservation status of a wide range of conifers and filled in standard data collection forms as a contribution to the project. The Temperate Broadleaved Trees Group has adopted a generic approach. At a meeting earlier this year experts were identified to work on the various genera. The project has funded two 3 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop issues of the Group’s newsletter and preliminary mapping of threatened species of Magnolia and Betula. Members of the International Oak Society, working through the SSC Temperate Broadleaved Trees Specialist Group are helping to assign the new IUCN threat categories to Quercus spp., a process which will be taken forward at this Workshop. To ensure that the project is a success it will be necessary to continue working effectively with a wide network of experts. At an international level, collaboration has been established with FAO and IPGRI. Collaboration with IPGRI will be discussed further by Dr Abdou- Salam Ouédraogo in a presentation to the Workshop. WCMC already works closely with The Nature Conservancy, which has generously provided data on globally threatened plants of the Americas in accordance with a Memorandum of Agreement between the two organisations. Participation by TNC staff in this Workshop will enhance further collaboration. WCMC welcomes involvement from all interested individuals and organisations in this project and all input will be fully acknowledged. The proposed outputs of the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project by the end of 1997 are: e A world list of threatened trees using the new IUCN threat categories (following the format presented as a draft at the Workshop) A report on the sustainability of tree utilisation e A world tree database made available to users in electronic format free of charge to all collaborators and other appropriate agencies e On-line access to tree conservation information maintained by WCMC e Development of an SSC tree network 2 Tree Conservation Information Service - Martin Sneary Martin Sneary presented Working document 1 Tree Conservation Information Service, which is provided in full as Annex 3 to this report. General principles of data management applied by WCMC and covered in the presentation include the use of standards to facilitate data compatibility and exchange; maintenance of data quality; and agreements on data custodianship and collaboration. The three key areas of activity in developing the Tree Conservation Information Service are data collection, data storage, and information dissemination. The steps taken so far in the design and development of the Tree Conservation Information Service were described focusing on the user needs survey, consultation with key organisations and use of the standard data collection form. Martin Sneary explained that a prototype database had been developed based on the standard data collection form and that this was available for demonstration and review at the meeting. Presentations 3 The IPGRI forest genetic resource conservation programme - Dr Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo thanked WCMC for the invitation to attend the meeting and said that his participation expressed IPGRI’s intention to collaborate with WCMC in the development of the Tree Conservation Information Service. The mandate of IPGRI is to advance the conservation and use of plant genetic resources for the benefit of present and future generations. IPGRI has four main elements in its work on plant genetic resources: ° strengthening national programmes ® contributing to international collaboration e improving strategies and technologies for conservation ® providing an international information service IPGRI has concentrated for the past 20 years on the conservation of genetic diversity of crop species. More recently its mandate has been expanded to cover forest genetic resources. In this area IPGRI works in partnership with ICRAF and CIFOR and is developing close links with WCMC. The key activities of the forest genetic resource conservation programme are: locating and assessing diversity in forest ecosystems ® in situ conservation, sustainable management and use © ex situ conservation ¢ TREESOURCE - an information system on forest genetic resources In the location and assessment of diversity in forest ecosystems, IPGRI is looking at patterns of genetic diversity and levels of genetic erosion. These will depend on the nature of the forest ecosystem and will be different in different regions. IPGRI currently has projects in Costa Rica, Indochina and West Africa. It is also important to know the impacts on genetic diversity in relation to use. Aspects of selective logging and utilisation of non-wood forest products are being studied. In situ conservation projects are being carried out in collaboration with CIFOR in Asia and in Costa Rica in collaboration with CATIE. Flavio Bertin Gandara Mendes will describe work underway in Brazil, later in the meeting. A miombo woodland project is being developed in Southern Africa. Ex situ work includes the development of an international network of seed research involving experts in 25 countries. The network is looking at methodologies for dealing with recalcitrant seeds. The scope of forest conservation is clearly broad and an ecosystem approach is most appropriate. Within this broad approach, realistic targets are needed by focusing on priority Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop species, priority populations and the level and extent of genotypic variation. There is a need for systematic decision making and thus this Workshop is important in stimulating the collection of information which can be used for setting priorities. Information is needed on the kinds of species; threats and levels of threat, conservation status of species; in situ and ex situ conservation activities and requirements. Economic data are also needed. IPGRI has initiated a project to develop a conceptual framework for decision making based on these types of information. The project activity links with project activities on the ground in IndoChina and Brazil. The information system currently in use for forest genetic resources is TREESOURCE which is being developed jointly by IPGRI, ICRAF, CIFOR and FAO. A central coordinating database has been established and regional nodes are being developed. Information is stored on the conservation status of endangered species and populations, together with a wide range of additional information. Discussion Adrian Newton asked how IPGRI assesses threat, pointing out that the IUCN threat categories do not take into account genetic considerations, and asked about the measurement of biological diversity. Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo replied that in assessing threat socio-economic information is needed on how forest resources are used and at what level. This needs to be integrated with biological data. In the tropics, population data for species are generally not known. Surveys are needed and studies on genetic variation. GIS can be used to help measure genetic erosion. TREESOURCE deals mainly with intraspecific diversity - there is a need to combine this level of information with WCMC data on tree species. 4 IUCN Red List Categories and Guidelines - Charlotte Jenkins Charlotte Jenkins presented Working document 2 Guidelines for the application of the 1994 IUCN red list categories to trees, which is provided as Annex 4 to this report. She pointed out that the application of the threat categories is an essential part of the project. Throughout the project considerable experience has been gained in using the 1994 categories but there are still difficulties in their application to tree species. The workshop provides a good opportunity to discuss these further. Discussion Darién Prado commented that there is a tendency to use DD because data are generally limited for tree species of South America. He also pointed out that not all applications of the categories are clearcut, even the IUCN booklet encourages subjectivity. Charlotte Jenkins replied that one of the advantages of the categories and criteria is that they identify the causal factor leading to species decline. She encouraged people to avoid using DD, noting that categories can be modified as more data becomes available. The category DD can be useful for species which are taxonomically dubious. Presentations The issue of species known only from few specimens was also discussed. This information can be helpful in assigning the threat categories but it is also important to note that certain areas are poorly collected. 5 Preliminary application of the new IUCN categories of the trees of Argentina - Darién Prado Darién Prado outlined one approach in the application of IUCN threat categories based on biogeographical information. He showed how vegetation mapping can help in determining where tree species are in danger and which should be conserved. The Piedmont Forests of northwest Argentina and southwest Bolivia are one of the most endangered vegetation units in Argentina, heavily destroyed by clearing for agriculture, and with no fragments included in protected areas. This leads to the conclusion that 47 woody and succulent species, including 25 trees, two of which are monotypic genera, which are endemic to the area (Prado, 1995) are obviously threatened species. Although no precise information is available, the extant surface of this vegetation unit is less than 20,000 sq km, and therefore, all 25 tree species should be considered at least VU Bl+2a. Careful distribution dot mapping, with a strong phytogeographical approach will provide higher precision in the application of the categories. Ecosystem conservation is the most useful focus for these species. Funding is required to quantify how much of this remnant forest type is left and to design conservation strategies. Reference: Prado, D.E. (1995) Selva pedemontana: contexto regional y lista floristica de un ecosistema en peligro. pp. 19-52 In: Brown, A.D. & Grau, H.R. (eds.) Investigacién, Conservacién y Desarrollo en Selvas Subtropicales de Montana L.1.E.Y. (UNT)/Proyecto de Desarrollo Agroforestal, Tucum4n. Discussion This presentation generated considerable discussion notably on current threats and protection needs in the area; and the relationship between floristic patterns and rainfall data. Shirley Keel noted that conservation activities have tended to focus on tropical lowland forest and there is a need for more attention to be given to tropical dry forests. Luis Corrales commented that accuracy of species mapping can generally be related to the number of collections; very often there are limited data. Discussion then turned to more general comments on the application of the IUCN threat categories. Eduardo Calderon Saenz asked whether the categories relate to threat ie external pressure or vulnerability ie internal condition of the species. He gave an example of the species, Hura crepitans, which is "threatened" because it is cut for wood and subject to other forms of utilisation, but remains very abundant. Adrian Newton replied that this is a semantic problem. It is important to remember that "threatened" is an abbreviation of "threatened with extinction" and the IUCN categories relate primarily to the probability of extinction rather than the external threat. Kevin Nixon commented on the Vulnerable category in relation to oaks. He pointed out that following the ’A’ criterion, most Californian woody plants would fit in the Vulnerable Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop category and probably most of the woody plants of Europe. The political implications of such broad listings could undermine the use of the categories. Charlotte Jenkins agreed that there are problems with the wide applicability of the Vulnerable category for trees and this may need to be addressed in future revisions of the categories. She stressed the need to keep a global perspective and also to base application of the categories on expert judgement as well as literal reading of the categories and criteria. Sara Oldfield added that the sub-criteria are useful in indicating the reasons for Vulnerable status, for example, actual or potential levels of exploitation (which may apply to widespread species) and decline in area or quality of habitat. Joaquina Pires-O’Brien commented that in applying the categories to Brazilian trees, she used the Vulnerable category, criterion A for widespread species such as Bertholletia excelsa. She was able to find historical data which showed that the rate of decline had been significant for this species although it remains widespread. Joaquina further commented that her general feeling is that the new categories are useful and have considerable potential. Their application for trees is a dynamic process which is open for review during the current project. Categorisations can be changed as more data becomes available. Luis Corrales pointed out the need for information cn population structure and dynamics. Field studies may reveal adult trees only with no regeneration. Such populations may be a result of events 200 years ago. Charlotte Jenkins replied that in applying the IUCN categories only reproductively effective individuals should be counted in estimates of population size. Where regeneration depends on stochastic events, estimating the probability of extinction becomes impossible. This kind of information can however be recorded in the database developed as part of the Tree Conservation Information Service. Martin Mitré commented on his experiences with applying the new categories to Panamanian trees. He has used DD for many species. Often type specimens do not have location details and may not even reveal the province where the specimen was collected. Sometimes the name of the town is given but this may refer to various settlements in the same country. He also commented on the difficulties of applying categories when information is only available from one country. Sara Oldfield replied that there will be instances, like these described, where the species is genuinely DD and it will be useful to note this to stimulate further studies. She also noted that international projects like this are important in attempting to link data for various countries in evaluating the conservation status of species. The working group discussions and coordination after the Workshop should help in this process. Adrian Newton pointed out that the new categories are designed to be equally applicable to all species. The tendency for many trees to be classified as Vulnerable clearly results from their relative longevity. If, however, tree species meet the criteria for Vulnerable we should not avoid listing them. Nohemy Elizabeth Ventura pointed out problems with the application of the current categories which can appear to overlook the critical situation faced by tree species for example in El Salvador. If a species is considered to be Vulnerable at a global scale this 8 Presentations could prevent action being taken in countries where the species is more severely threatened. The categories need to be more clearly defined. Dora de Retana said that based on the information provided by Darien Prado she would consider the species in the Piedmont area to be Endangered because of their limited distribution and current threats. Darien Prado replied that he would not feel confident to apply a higher category without revisiting the site. Kevin Nixon raised the question of how to treat newly described species. It was agreed that knowledge of the area of collection and level to which this had been explored botanically would be important considerations. Generally newly described tree species would be expected to fall within the threat categories. 6 Rare and common species: use and conservation of the Atlantic rain forest - Flavio Bertin Gandara Tropical rain forests are well know for their very high diversity of tree species, around 200 species per hectare. Among these exist a great number of different kinds of species which have different life history strategies, reproductive biology, spatial distribution, interactions with animals and successional status. The Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Tree Species of the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil has been studying the genetic diversity of representative species, considering these characteristics. The main focus of these studies is in the Tropical Atlantic Rain Forest, which occurs along the eastern coast of Brazil. This ecosystem is considered a “hot spot" area due to its high diversity and endemism, associated with a very high anthropic pressure. Genetic studies, using genetic markers (mainly isozymes), are being conducted with natural populations in primary forests and with disturbed populations in secondary forests. The genetic diversity of the natural populations are considered as reference for genetic conservation, both in situ and ex situ. The different responses of the species to anthropic disturbance including changes in the genetic structure, have been considered to give guidelines for priority interventions and restoration of degraded areas. Rare species, or those with low population density (1 tree per ha - | tree per 50 ha) for example Cedrela fissilis, show significantly high diversity and a very wide gene flow. These species are being used as references for in situ conservation. Common species, for example Euterpe edulis, fit very well the requirements for the sustainable management, mainly due to their intense regeneration and high density, and for this reason they are being used for monitoring the effects of the management activities. The University of Sao Paulo and the National Centre of Genetic Resources/EMBRAPA are currently implementing a research programme aiming at establishing genetic reserves with support of IPGRI and GEF/World Bank. In this programme populations of the model species are being identified, mapped and monitored. Patterns of genetic variation in these populations are studied. Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop The knowledge of the genetic diversity of the many species of the tropical rain forest and the understanding of processes that impact genetic diversity are also being used to elaborate restoration models involving successional ecological groups. In these models, the rare and common species are being planted in low and high densities, and the early successional species are shading the late successional ones. Discussion Adrian Newton suggested that care needs to be taken with the use of the term ‘rare’. Tree species may be naturally rare for many reasons and rarity may not be a problem for the survival of the species. This is one of the reasons why the term was dropped by IUCN. Flavio Bertin Gandara Mendes replied that in the work described, the concept of rarity is used to apply to species which occur at low density. Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo emphasised that this type of research is likely to become increasingly important especially for endangered species. In areas like the Atlantic Coastal Forest it is more and more difficult to set aside large areas for conservation and so we need to look at different approaches. Future stages of this project in Brazil will look at the impact of fragmentation and socioeconomic aspects are another important component. 7 Sustainability of uses of tree species - Adrian Newton Adrian Newton provided various examples of the threats and management issues for trees in the Caribbean, Central and South America, focusing on tree species included in the appendices of CITES, and introduced Working document 3 Sustainable use and conservation of tree species. He highlighted four main issues for discussion: defining sustainability problems with current approaches in assessment of sustainable forest management alternative approaches relationship between assessment of sustainable use and conservation status hwWN The Brundtland Report (1987) definition of sustainable development ’meeting the requirements of present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’ has provided the basis for numerous development policy initiatives, despite some confusion over the what the term ‘sustainability’ means precisely. The most useful short definition has been provided by Upton and Bass (1995). This . covers environmental, social and economic aspects of sustainability. Various international forestry initiatives are attempting to assess sustainability but not all follow the same definition. Problems with current approaches in the assessment of sustainable forest management include: ¢ confusion about definitions of criteria and indicators © emphasis on timber rather than other forest products 10 Presentations e focus on forest ecosystems rather than species ¢ focus on management rather than use ¢ problem of scale of management units e will all species in sustainably managed forest be adequately conserved? Alternative approaches may need to be developed in applying sustainability concepts to tree species. A very useful publication in this context is provided by Peters (1994) who notes that tree species have different potential for sustainable use dependent on their biological characteristics. The biological characteristics which determine the ability of a species to withstand use are those which enable the species to tolerate or to recover after harvesting. The different uses of tree species also vary in the likelihood of being sustainable. Impact of use is also clearly relevant in assessing conservation status as is recognised explicitly in the criteria for the application of IUCN categories of threat. In the IUCN criteria relating to population reduction, ’actual or potential levels of exploitation’ is listed as a possible cause of decline. Use of a tree species may also result in a decline in the area of occupancy and the number of mature individuals of the species; a decline in the extent. of occurrence of the species and / or quality of its habitat; or an increase in population fragmentation. Furthermore if the use of a species results in genetic erosion, then this will increase the threat of extinction of that species. Intra-specific genetic variation is not, however, explicitly addressed by the IUCN Red List categories which make no attempt to consider genetically distinct populations, genotypes or individual genes. It is, of course, not only the existing genetic variation that is important for long-term viability of a species, but also the processes involved in maintaining that variation (such as gene flow). These processes are also not included in the criteria explicitly, although a reduction in population size or extent of occurrence, which are included in the criteria, take account of these processes to some extent. The IUCN criteria could perhaps be amended in future to include intra-specific genetic variation, although assessing genetic erosion presents a number of technical difficulties, demonstrated by the lack of quantitative data currently available The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) provides a framework for the prevention of trade in endangered species, and for regulation of trade in other species of concern. New criteria for listing species on the respective appendices were adopted in 1994 to provide a more objective basis for amending the appendices. The criteria were developed along similar lines to the revised IUCN criteria for categorising the conservation status of species. The three main biological criteria are population size, area of geographic distribution and population decline. The criteria for listing on Appendix II, includes the foilowing: ‘it is known, inferred or projected that harvesting of specimens from the wild for international trade has, or may have, a detrimental impact on the species by exceeding over an extended period the level that can be continued in perpetuity’. This is essentially a definition of sustainability. It is possible to infer that any species being harvested above sustainable levels could qualify for inclusion in Appendix II. This clearly needs more consideration. Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Reference: Peters, C. (1994). Sustainable harvest of non-timber plant resources in tropical moist forest: an ecological primer. Biodiversity Support Programme, Wrold Wildlife Fund, Washington DC. Discussion Kevin Nixon supported the ecosystem approach in discussions of sustainability but questioned whether there are in reality any sustainably managed forests. European oak forests, for example, which have been managed for centuries, only conserve highly productive oaks. Taking out timber species in a forest has a profound effect on the composition of the other species which are not being directly used. He also commented on the specific characteristics of Quercus in relation to Adrian Newton’s considerations of species sustainability. Joaquina Pires-O’Brien commented that the ideas on the potential for sustainable use of different tree species were based on classic ecological concepts. Adrian Newton agreed and pointed out that one of the problems is that the sustainability debate currently is not taking into account population biology. Dora de Retana asked about the current status of Fitzroya cupressoides a species protected by CITES. Adrian Newton replied that his Chilean colleagues do not believe that sustainable management of Alerce is biologically possible. Conservation measures for the species are constantly changing and, of course, CITES only covers exports of the species. Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo commented that there are links between sustainability of species and ecosystems. Sustainability can be considered in terms of the ability of a species to adapt to new ecosystem conditions. We need to look for early warning systems for situations where species can no longer adapt. 8 Conservation of the genetic resources of Swietenia spp. - Carlos Navarro Pereira Carlos Navarro Pereira gave a short illustrated presentation on the conservation of the genetic resources of Swietenia macrophylla in the Mesoamerican region. CATIE has been carrying out a comprehensive study of genetic diversity of the species in collaboration with the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh. The Oxford Forestry Institute has also provided assistance. Following a review of herbarium material, a strategy for regional collection was prepared which attempted to locate different population types. Four main areas have been studied and the current status of Swietenia in these areas was described in the presentation. 9 The work of CATIE in sustainable forest management - Dr José Joaquim Campos Dr José Joaquim Campos gave an overview of CATIE’s work in natural forest management. In Central America two-thirds of the land has the capacity for forest use and one-third has agricultural capacity. At present only one-third is under forestry and protected areas. This has consequences with which we are all familiar. Globally tropical forests cover seven percent of the planet and harbour SO percent of the biodiversity. A 12 Presentations generally stated goal is that 10 percent should be in protected areas. If that is the case how do we manage the remaining 90 percent? CATIE believes that it is possible to both conserve and utilise tropical forests and is developing a concept of diversified and sustainable forest management. In doing so it is necessary to maximise the value of natural forests and diversify production. It is also necessary to involve local people in the decision making process. In the CATIE model for sustainable management the first phase is planning. This involves undertaking inventories to define areas for forest production and areas for conservation. Even within production forests some areas should be left untouched. Production forests are divided into areas which can be periodically harvested. All harvestable trees are located and mapped. This is now a legal requirement in Costa Rica. Other activities in the planning phase include the planning and construction of roads and the establishment of permanent plots and monitoring procedures. The second phase is the harvesting phase. CATIE is promoting the use of a wider range of species. This is important in Costa Rica because of the high rate of deforestation. Species are being commercialised in Costa Rica which are not utilised in neighbouring countries such as Nicaragua. Harvesting involves removal of lianas and directional felling. A training manual is being developed for chain saw operators. People are generally resistant to changes in harvesting practices because they are concerned about the costs. The third post-harvesting phase involves diagnostic sampling of the forest. Improvements associated with the change to elements of this model for sustainable management include large increases in biological production and improvements in environmental quality such as quality of water supply. There are increased costs in the planning phase but these are recovered in later phases of forest management. Various aspects of the CATIE model are still in the research phase and we still do not fully understand what is conserved when the forests are managed in this way. CATIE now wants to see its model for natural forest management become fully operational, accepting that tropical forests still present enormous challenges. Discussion Luis Corrales commented that plantations and management for production inevitably lead to an irreversible loss of biodiversity. José Joaquim Campos replied that CATIE is working with CIFOR and others to look at the impact of timber production on fauna and to establish which forestry techniques conserve the maximum biodiversity. 10 Tropical high Andean forests in southern Peru - Dr Washington Galiano Sanchez Dr Washington Galiano Sanchez described the high biodiversity of the Peruvian Andes and illustrated this with a discussion of the distribution and ecology of the genus Polylepis. He noted that in the Puno area of the Andes forests occur to an altitude of 5200m. The genus Polylepis, with 16 species is endemic to the Andean region. Ten Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop species are found in the Urubamba region which now has 35 percent forest cover. The main threat to the forests is charcoal burning. Discussion Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo asked about conservation measures in place. Washington Galiano Sanchez replied that there is currently a proposal to protect 400,000 ha of high altitude land in Urubamba which will help to conserve three Polylepis spp. in situ. It is also proposed to create a botanic garden to conserve plants in the region. Allen Coombes asked about the availability of seed, noting that only one species of Polylepis is in cultivation in the UK. Washington Galiano Sanchez replied that it would be easier to provide seedlings for cultivation. Seeds of the genus are very small and difficult to find in the natural habitats. Darien Prado pointed out the generally high number of endemic species in the Andean area and the need to focus on ecosystem conservation. 11 The FFI Soundwood Programme - a brief overview - Pam Wellner Pam Wellner thanked WCMC for the workshop invitation and pointed out the value of the information being discussed to the FFI Soundwood Programme. This focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of tree species used in the manufacture of musical instruments. The Soundwood Programme began in the UK in 1993 and was launched in the US in June 1996. Soundwood has the following objectives: assessment and monitoring of species used by the music industry; promoting awareness of the status of species; facilitating sustainable utilisation and developing forest management strategies with local people. Replacement with substitute materials and trade bans are not advocated except in extreme cases. The Soundwood Programme encourages the use of timber certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). FSC has established principles and criteria for sustainable forest management and acts as an umbrella organisation for independent certifiers. Soundwood’s species work involves three steps: research, to identify species under threat; workshops to enhance local involvement in species conservation planning and implementation of conservation initiatives. The first international workshop of the Programme was held in Maputo, Mozambique in November 1995. This workshop was called to discuss Dalbergia melanoxylon and resulted in an agreed regional conservation strategy for the. species. It is planned to hold the next workshop in Brazil in collaboration with the Rio de Janeiro Botanic Garden. This workshop will focus on Caesalpinia echinata. In 1997 research efforts will also concentrate on Dalbergia latifolia, Dalbergia stevensonii and Dalbergia retusa. Presentations Discussion Eduardo Calderon Saenz asked if there was a list of the species used by the musical instrument industry in various countries. Pam Wellner replied that this was being developed and information was being collected on woods used for traditional musical instruments. Alternative woods not currently in wide usage are also being identified. Nina Marshall asked if industry had provided support for conservation of Dalbergia melanoxylon as a result of the Maputo workshop. Pam Wellner replied that feedback from the industry had been diverse. A broad range of potential supporters is being considered. 12 Networking and development of SSC - Nina Marshall Nina Marshall introduced the work of the Species Survival Commission (SSC), one of six commissions or voluntary networks of IUCN, the umbrella organisation for the world’s conservation agencies and NGOs. The SSC is the largest network in the world of professionals dedicated to the cause of conserving species and biological diversity. Membership in the SSC is voluntary. It offers an opportunity for individuals to work with others to contribute to species conservation and be part of a well-respected and effective body of conservation experts. The SSC Secretariat is based at the Headquarters of IUCN in Switzerland. Activities of the various Specialist Groups are coordinated by the Secretariat. There are currently over 100 Specialist Groups with a combined membership of around 7000. Activities of the Groups include preparation and implementation of Action Plans, networking through newsletters, meetings and workshops, provision of advice to governments and inter- governmental organisations and helping to implement international conventions. The Action Plan process increases the availability of information on species within a particular group, makes this information available to further conservation, produces comprehensive recommendations and guides future activities of the Specialist Group. There are currently a range of plant Specialist Groups, various of which are already closely involved with the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project. There are also regional plant groups such as South American Temperate Plant Specialist Group and the Brazil Plant Specialist Group. At the first regional workshop for the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project participants agreed to form an African Tree Specialist Group, and Dr Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo has agreed to chair this new Group. It will be very useful to consider at this Workshop whether an American Tree Specialist Group should be formed. 15 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Discussion Dora E. Mora de Retana, a member of the SSC Orchid Specialist Group pointed out the advantages of forming a regional tree Specialist Group and encouraged the meeting to support this idea. Following further discussion of the value of forming a Group and the benefits of institutional support it was agreed to pursue the idea further after the close of the Workshop. It was also recommended that information on existing plant groups would be circulated with the Workshop report. 16 Working Group Reports The Working Groups were asked to discuss their experiences in the use of the IUCN categories and criteria; review Working Document 4 - List of globally threatened tree species of the Americas, and suggest any further species for addition; and to evaluate selected species from Working Document 5 - Tree species for conservation evaluation. Working Group 1 focused on a more specific agenda concentrating on the conservation evaluation of a range of oak species. Each Working Group set its own agenda and priorities for discussion within the broad remit given and reported back to the meeting as a whole. Working Group 1 - Oaks Participants: Maricela Rodriguez Acosta, Kevin Nixon, Allen Coombes, William Hess Kevin Nixon reported on the discussions of the Group which had worked on a list of approximately 125 American Quercus species provided by WCMC. The list included both trees and shrubs. There is no recent monograph which can be followed and from the list provided 61 names are considered to be synonyms. Of the remaining species, 11 were categorised by the Group as Not Threatened, [LR:Ic]. Fifteen species were originally categorised as DD, but some of these were later changed to VU. Now that the Group has a better understanding of the categorisation process, it may be possible to research these species, by working up maps and othe: data and to provide conservation assessments. In total 30 of the oak species were considered to be VU, generally based on restricted Tange criteria. Observations of Mexican species in dry forest areas indicate that decline is nearly always related to grazing giving rise to regeneration problems. For Central American species, deforestation is the main threat. A number of widespread species in lowlands were considered to be threatened due to 20 percent loss over three generations where for example forests have been cut for coffee plantations. Seven species were categorised as EN and two as CR. One species on the list may be Extinct in the Wild (EW) but more research is needed. This species is no longer found at its original type locality, and only seven collections of the species have been made. The Group also noted a lack of knowledge of official threatened plant listings at national or state level. There will need to be communication with appropriate authorities. The importance of sound taxonomy was also stressed. Information is reasonably good for Quercus but there will be difficulties, for example in Southeast Asia where there is no good taxonomic treatment for the genus. A summary of the evaluations by Working Group 1 is given in Annex 6. Discussion Pam Wellner asked about the status of oaks in North America. Kevin Nixon replied that the Group had considered various species to be threatened in West Texas, Alabama and Arkansas. The importance of communicating with local conservation agencies was agreed. Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Working Group 2 - Central America Participants: Nina Marshall, Dora E Mora de Retana, Nelson Zamora, Nohemy Elizabeth Ventura Centeno, Cirilo Nelson Sutherland, Adrian Newton, Pamela Wellner, Luis Corrales, Martin Mitre Dora de Retana reported on the work of the Group which had considered in detail the species in Working Document 5 which occur from Mexico to Panama. Thirteen species were evaluated. The Group used several general criteria in their evaluations: e high exploitation (for example, logging and medicinal use) e regeneration power of species e abundance of species in range (Mexico to Panama) The Group thought that some information was missing from the draft species profiles, especially for species found in South America. If information is not available for the entire range, it makes application of the categories difficult. The only way to assign categories is through consultation with all countries where the species occurs. However, it was not too hard to apply categories for species where the Group had access to full information. Discussion Adrian Newton asked how information on regeneration had been used in application of the categories. Dora de Retana replied that field experience of the Group with regard to observations on regeneration was especially valuable. Working Group 3 - South America Participants: Eduardo Calderén Saenz, Eduardo Dalcin, Flavio Bertin Gandara Mendes, Jan de Koning, Silvia Llamozas, Ximena Buitron, Darien E Prado, Joaquina Pires O’Brien, Washington Galiano Sanchez, Shirley Keel, Ana-Maria Giulietti Joaquina Pires-O’Brien reported on the discussions of the Group which had worked on 21 South American species for which summary information was provided in Working Document 5. Generally, the group found the evaluations of the widespread species difficult, noting that threats and status vary from country to country, and they were not totally happy with their results. For most species, they used the A criterion. The Group also filled in data collection forms for several species. The Group emphasised the need for more information on which to base evaluations. Information is not necessarily available from published sources but may for example be found in University theses. Working Group Reports Discussion Shirley Keel considered that the list of species for evaluation was rather short and many other species could be added to it. Joaquina Pires-O’Brien added that corrections had been made to the information presented and that this had been useful in improving the preliminary information provided by WCMC. Sara Oldfield welcomed the improvements and agreed that it would be difficult to compile comprehensive information for South America because of the huge diversity of species and resources needed for good coordination. She pointed out that the draft species profiles for a small selection of species had been put together rapidly for the workshop, based on very limited information. She welcomed advice on other experts to consult. Luis Corrales asked about difficulties encountered with the application of the categories. Joaquina Pires-O’Brien emphasised the need to develop consistency in the application of the categories and criteria. This should become easier as more evaluations are carried out. Darien Prado said that one of the greatest difficulties results from the uneven development of taxonomy in different parts of Latin America. He finds the categories very useful and not too difficult to apply but problems result from differing views on the same species based on different experiences in different countries. Sara Oldfield replied that the IUCN categories are currently for global listing. We need to note problems in their application, for example, to widespread species and provide input into the development of national categories. Martin Mitré asked about the mechanism WCMC will use when there are different evaluations from different countries. Sara Oldfield replied that clearly there needs to be discussion and sharing of information. It is possible to infer the global category from information in part of the range of a species but it is obviously preferable to examine the different category assessments, share findings and reach consensus. General discussion on the Working Group reports Ana-Maria Giulietti commented that Virola surinamensis had been classified differently by the two Groups; VU in Central America and EN in South America. Various other discrepancies were also noted. Sara Oldfield pointed out that there was a certain amount of conformity between groups. Both considered the species to be "threatened" in the broad sense. Wherever possible, WCMC would act as mediator, contact all involved, and try and reach consensus. Dora de Retana suggested that it should be possible to reach consensus during the meeting if information was shared between the Groups on the basis for evaluations. Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo commented that regarding the assessment for Virola, it would be expected that some species will have different status at national/regional levels because of different levels and types of threat. For global assessments we clearly need to Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop harmonise these, but it is important not to lose track of national situations because this is where conservation solutions are developed and applied. Adrian Newton asked whether it is true to say that where a species occurs in Central and South America generally the species is more abundant in South America? If so, South American assessments are more important. Swietenia is a good example. Kevin Nixon replied that for species of Quercus, they are more abundant in South America. Nelson Zamora commented that a key requirement is to consult appropriate people. Contact with experts is very important. Luis Corrales noted that IUCN categories have a considerable reputation in Latin American countries, both positive and negative. If a global category is assigned indicating lower threat "globally" than nationally, this could lead to increased threats in certain populations. Political aspects can be important to consider. Dora de Retana agreed with this very important point and the potential for misuse of data. Bill Hess asked about the development of threatened species lists at a national level. Luis Corrales replied that often local authorities do not have enough data because of lack of resources and technical capacity, so IUCN categories are used. Frequently national data are not being updated but the situation varies from country to country. Ana-Maria Giulietti added that analysis across the whole range of a species could distort the national view. Analysis at country level is important. Sara Oldfield pointed out that the intention of the Tree Conservation Information Service is to back up the categories and criteria with supporting information. In the summaries published in the World List of Threatened Trees we can specify where the conservation situation is more critical than is apparent from the global assessment. WCMC’s main role is to compile information at the global level and it is more appropriate for detailed information to be maintained by national agencies. Following further discussion between the Working Groups for Central and South America, a threat category was agreed for most of the species where evaluations initially differed. The results of the evaluations for these widespread species are given in Annex 5. 20 Closing Remarks Sara Oldfield thanked all participants for their contributions to a very productive Workshop, for generating the many positive ideas to emerge from the meeting and for the provision of information in support of the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project. She summed up key points of agreement to emerge from discussions noting that: ® Botanists are in a good position to contribute to the international debates on forest conservation. Although forest conservation initiatives are often taken at the ecosystem level, species information should also be taken into account and increasingly genetic resource information. Good species information depends on the work of plant taxonomists and the Tree Conservation Information Service will be reliant on their expertise. = Botanical information is continuously being updated at WCMC and is available on request. The results of this Workshop will be widely circulated to stimulate further data collection and exchange. Data presented at the Workshop will be incorporated into the new database for the project and sent to participants for review. The conservation evaluation of tree species is a dynamic process reliant on wide consultation and review. 21 gy ~e - — - ie , we f , : » La a My 1 Sa eons Te th SMF Je ® wh) in’ e eo me + Annex 1 Workshop Agenda 18 November Morning (9.30am-1pm) Registration * Welcome to CATIE - Dr Markku Kanninen * Introduction to the project - Sara Oldfield the work of WCMC and SSC project aims, activities and progress * Development of Tree Conservation Information Service - data management issues - Martin Sneary * Discussion and database demonstration - LUNCH Afternoon (2pm-Spm) * The IPGRI forest genetic resource conservation programme - Abdou Salam Ouédraogo * Introduction to the new IUCN categories of threat and overview of their use for trees - Charlotte Jenkins * Preliminary application of the new IUCN categories to the trees of Argentina - Darién Prado * Discussion on application of new threat categories to trees species 19 November Morning (9am-1 1am) * Genetic conservation and management of trees in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil -Flavio Bertin Gandara * Sustainability of uses of tree species - Adrian Newton * Conservation of the genetic resources of Swietenia spp. - Carlos Navarro Pereira * Discussion 11 am - lpm Working Groups Group 1___ Evaluating the conservation status of American oaks 23 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Group 2 Application of the IUCN threat categories to Meso American and Caribbean tree species Group 3 Application of the IUCN threat categories to South American tree species LUNCH Afternoon (2pm-4pm) * Working Group discussions continued * The work of CATIE in sustainable forest management - Dr José Joaquim Campos 20 November Morning (9am-12am) *. The FFI Soundwood Programme - a brief overview * Tropical high Andean forests in southern Peru - Dr Washington Galiano Sanchez * Reports from Working Groups * Networking and SSC tree conservation activities * Integration with regional conservation initiatives Afternoon (2pm-4pm) * Discussion and conclusions 24 Annex 2 Participants list Allen J. Coombes The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens & Arboretum Jermyns Lane, Ampfield Romsey Hampshire SO51 0QA email 101736.1173@compuserve.com Eduardo Dalcin Centro de Informacoes e Servicos Programa Mata Atlantica Jardim Botanico de Rio de Janeiro Rua Pacheco Leao 915 Rio de Janeiro-RJ email pmajb92@ax.ibase.org.br biosys@ax.apc.org Washington Galiano Sanchez Herbarium Vargas Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Cusco, Peru Ana-Maria Giulietti Coordenadora da Comissao Flora do Brasil da SBB Departamento de Biologia Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana Km 03 BR116 Campus Universitario CEP 44031-460 Feira de Santana Brazil Tel: 55-75-224 80 21 Fax 55-75-224 22 84 William Hess The Morton Arboretum Rt. 53 Lisle, Illinois 60532 USA email whess@mortonarb.org Shirley Keel The Nature Conservancy 1815 N Lynn Street Arlington, VA 22209 USA email skeel@tnc.org Luis Corrales The Nature Conservancy 1815 N Lynn Street Arlington, VA 22209 USA email Icorrales@tnc.org Jan de Koning Hortus Botanicus/Rijksherbarium PO Box 9516 2300 RA Leiden Netherlands email koning@rulrhb.ledienunironl Martin Mitre Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Apdo. 2072 Balboa, Panama Fax (507) 232 44 06 Cyril H. Nelson Sutherland Director Departamento de Biologia (Herbario) Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Honduras Tegucigalpa Honduras email cnelson@ns.unah.hondunet.net Adrian Newton Institute of Ecology and Resource Management University of Edinburgh Darwin Building, Kings Buildings Mayfield Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3JU Tel +44 (0) 131 650 5419 Fax +44 (0) 131 662 0478 email a.newton@ed.ac.uk Kevin Nixon Associate Professor L.H. Bailey Hortorium 462 Mann Library Cornell University Ithaca New York 148-4301 USA email kcn2@cornell.edu 25 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Maricela Rodriguez Africam Safari Of. Puebla 11 Ote. 2407 C.P. 72000 Mexico email macosta@siu.cen.buap.mx Tel 52 (22) 358 607 Nina Marshall IUCN EARO PO Box 68200 Mukoma Road, Langata Nairobi Kenya email nim@earo.iucn.ch Tel/Fax (254) 2 890471 Marianne Syrylak Sandison The Herbarium Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE UK Tel +44 (0) 181 332 5723 Fax +44 (0) 181 332 5757 email m.sandison@rbgkew.org.uk Nohemy Elizabeth Ventura Centeno Herbario de la Universidad de El Salvador Escuela de Biologia Universidad de El Salvador Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matematica San Salvador EI Salvador Tel (503) 226 2072 (Of) Fax (503) 226 1948 Darien Prado Catedra de Botanica Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, UNR PO Box No 14 2123 Zavalla, Santa Fe prov. ARGENTINA Tel 54 41 970080/0085/0199 Fax 55 41 257164 26 Joaquina Pires-O’Brien Independent Consultant "Camelot", Mill Road Mutfor, Beccles Suffolk NR34 7UR UK Tel/Fax +44 (0) 1502 476351 Flavio Bertin Gandara Mendes Avenida Padua Dias, 11 Caixa Postal, 530 CEP 13 400-970 Piracicaba, SP Brasil Tel 55 (0194) 33 6155 Fax 55 (0194) 33 6081 email fomendes@floresta.dsalq.usp.br Pamela Wellner SoundWood US 1009 De Haro Street San Francisco, CA 94107 USA Tel/Fax 1 (415) 695 1956 email pwellner@igc.apc Abdou-Salam Ouédraogo Forest Genetic Resources IPGRI Via dele sette Chiese 142 00145 Rome Italy Ximena Buitron c/o TRAFFIC/UICN-SUR Av. Atahualpa 935 y Republica Edifico Digicom 4to. piso PO Box 17-17-626 Quito Ecuador Tel (593-2) 466622/23 Fax (593-2) 466624 email ximena@vicn.ecx.ec Dora E. Mora de Retana Universidad de Costa Rica Escuela de Biologia Universidad de Costa Rica San Jose 1000, Costa Rica Tel/Fax (506) 552 3151 Nelson Zamora Coordinator Departamento de Botanica Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad Apdo. 22-3100 Santo Domingo, Heredia Costa Rica email nzamora@randia.indio.ac.cr Eduardo Calderon Av. 3cn 62N-77, Casa 43 Villas de San Martin Cali, Colombia Tel/Fax 57 2 6658168 Silvia Llamozas Fundacion Instituto botanico de Venezuela Herbario Nacional de Venezuela Jardin Botanico de Caracas Av Salvador Allende Plaza Venezuela Apartado 2156 Caracas, Venezuela Tel 58 2 6930143 Fax 58 2 6629081 email sllamoza@strix.ciens.ucv.ve CATIE STAFF Markku Kanninen CATIE Turrialba Costa Rica Carlos Navarra Pereira CATIE Turrialba Costa Rica Jose Joaquim Campos CATIE Turrialba Costa Rica Tania Ammour CATIE Turrialba Costa Rica Annex 2 WCMC STAFF Sara Oldfield World Conservation Monitoring Centre 219 Huntingdon Road Cambridge CB3 ODL UK Tel - +44 (0) 1223 277314 Fax +44 (0) 1223 277136 email sara.oldfield@wcmc.org.uk Charlotte Jenkins World Conservation Monitoring Centre 219 Huntingdon Road Cambridge CB3 ODL UK Tel +44 (0) 1223 277314 Fax +44 (0) 1223 277136 email charlotte.jenkins@wcmc.org.uk Martin Sneary World Conservation Monitoring Centre 219 Huntingdon Road Cambridge CB3 ODL UK ° Tel +44 (0) 1223 277314 Fax +44 (0) 1223 277136 email martin.sneary@wcmc.org.uk 27 - » . aj pile i ~ ih : a ee a ico i oer ; ot yon 5 a Annex 3 Working Document 1 ’ Tree Conservation Information Service Data management issues November 1996 This paper outlines the development of the Tree Conservation Information Service, which will, through the collaborative efforts of a wide range of individuals and organisations, provide access to high quality information relating to tree species. The service will aim to harmonise and enhance the value of the data collected and maintained by the expanding Species Survival Commission (SSC) Trees Network by facilitating its application to the conservation and management of trees at the local, national and international level. The service will be of value to individuals and to key organisations whose decisions rely on access to accurate information. Access to high quality data and information will enhance capacity at all levels to make informed and well reasoned decisions. Whether determining the best use of local land or negotiating the obligations of an international treaty, authoritative data and information on tree species will inform the process and increase the'likelihood that sustainable practices are employed and negative environmental consequences are minimised. Background The World Conservation Union (IUCN) has long recognised the importance of information management, integration and distribution. The Union created the Conservation Monitoring Centre in 1979 (later the World Conservation Monitoring Centre (WCMC) in 1988) to help manage and disseminate the wealth of data deriving from the activities of the IUCN Commissions. The importance of sound information management is now being expressed in the development of the Biodiversity Conservation Information System (BCIS). BCIS is a collaborative effort of IUCN commissions, programs and partners, including the IUCN SSC, and WCMC, with the broad objective of supporting decision making and management practices that affect biodiversity and natural resources through the Provision of data and information. A process is now underway to plan the BCIS in detail, and partner reviews were undertaken during May and June 1996 and presented in a report titled Partner needs and capability assessment. The development of the SSC Trees Network and the formation of the Tree Conservation Information Service are complimentary to this ambitious project, and collectively they aim to enhance the conservation of biodiversity through the provision of accurate data and information. Goal To provide a reliable and up-to-date information service on the distribution, conservation status, local uses and economic values of tree species worldwide, in order to assist countries in the planning of sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation, through appropriate international or intergovernmental processes. 29 Data harmonisation and data quality management Data are widely distributed amongst individual experts, national, and international organisations. For these data to realise their full value, they need to be harmonised and presented in an integrated form. Indeed, whether presenting information for an action plan, a national survey, or to develop legislation, the supporting data will have greater impact if it is consistent. For example, when evaluating the status of a species, either regionally, nationally or internationally, it is essential to ensure that all potential sources have been identified, and that all the material being considered refers to the same taxonomic species. The process of harmonising data can be reduced if data are collected along similar guidelines, and considerations also need to be given to the use of existing data standards. The application of appropriate standards facilitates consolidation and communication (exchange of data) and helps to ensure consistency within and between datasets. The following will benefit considerably from standards: Taxonomy Geographic areas (eg Biological recording units - BRUs) Habitat or vegetation classifications Other standards (eg IUCN threat categories) Although the service will aim to encourage the use of standards, the adoption of existing standards will depend on individuals, who will need to assess their suitability for use. In addition to suggesting collection guidelines and identifying existing standards, the service will aim to promote and maintain excellent data quality management. Quality management refers to the overall process which governs the quality of a product from beginning to end. In the case of information the process begins with data collection and ends with user application. Quality control checks and quality assurance methods should be applied through all stages of the process. There can be no absolute measure of the quality of a dataset. What may be "high quality" data for regional planning may be "low quality" for local decision making because of factors such as scale, detail, and error. Datasets may not be "100%" accurate, as the data are often based on subjective observation (such as deciding a boundary of a habitat), incomplete sampling (eg. field observations), or indirect measurement (eg remote sensing). Even if it were theoretically possible to-collect complete and accurate data, time and cost considerations often make this extremely difficult from a practical standpoint. Therefore, datasets will generally contain an element of error and uncertainty. "Quality" must be considered a measure of "fitness for use" and is therefore relative to the proposed or intended use. This is a very important consideration when data are being integrated and used for applications beyond the original purpose of data collection. Quality management requires attention to quality assurance, integrity protection, and to the complete documentation of the dataset in terms of its quality, uncertainty, limitations, origin and intended purposes. Such descriptions will form part of the data maintained through the service. Data custodianship A key to good management of biodiversity data is to ensure that data are always maintained by the organisation best placed to ensure quality. "Custodianship" provides a framework under which responsibility for a dataset can be assigned and accepted by the most appropriate agency. It provides a mechanism to ensure that each information holding is established, maintained and made available 30 Annex 3 by the agency best able to do so. The responsibilities of custodianship encompass data acquisition, management, and documentation, as well as determining under what conditions a dataset may be accessed and used. As the Tree Conservation Information Service evolves, and more data are collected throughout the networks of custodians, accuracy will be maintained by relying on the individuals best qualified to comment on and maintain data doing so at the appropriate level. Indeed, custodianship should be recognised as being at the core of efficient and effective information management, and essentially provides a mechanism to ensure that each dataset is established, maintained and made available by the organisation best able to do so. Licensing Agreements Custodians may be responsible for management of the various licensing agreements, which can become very complex. Where appropriate, every effort should be made to develop relatively simple generic licences for data access and use within each jurisdiction. "Memorandum of Understanding" and similar high-level mechanisms that would allow the unrestricted flow. of information between agencies may need to be negotiated. Successful biodiversity management requires ready access to many datasets from a wide variety of institutions. There should be an absolute minimum of administrative, cost and other impediments to the flow of information, consistent with the protection of copyright, intellectual property and other legitimate custodian rights. Any obstacles to the free flow of information will inevitably inhibit responsible decision making and sound biodiversity management. The concept of custodianship can be very useful when attempting to build cooperative networks of information systems, whether linkages between the partners are electronic or informal. An important principle of the scheme is that all datasets are, in theory, accessible by all the partners. Designated custodians, however, have responsibility for collection and maintenance of the data and the sole right to update it and perform corrections. Varying conditions may be attached to data on the network. For example, data may be used for government decision making, public information or research purposes, but not for any commercial purposes, at least without specific permission. Collaboration Linking with other organisations is an important aspect of the information service, and will ensure that information collected through the project is compatible with other data gathering initiatives. Two important areas of collaboration have been developed: between WCMC and IPGRI and between WCMC and FAO. These relate to the following projects: e REFORGEN database system, developed by the Forest Resources Division of FAO, is a global database system designed to house information related to the world’s forest genetic resources. e TREESOURCE, a global information system on forest genetic resources, represents a collaborative effort between FAO, CIFOR, ICRAF and IPGRI, and has been designed to provide readily, reliable and accessible information on forest genetic resources. These collaborative links will also minimise replication of effort and promote exchange of data. Furthermore, wherever possible, the information service will adapt to support other initiatives for which the data may have a use. ri 31 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Capacity Building The service will not aim to maintain all the information potentially available on tree species. Central to the success of the service will be the development of regional capacity and in the development of the Tree Conservation Information Service, we are discussing with various national agencies their data management capacity and development needs. We would welcome your views on local needs during the course of the workshop, particularly as there is no single way to achieve improvements in the environment through the use of information. In all cases the approach has to be tailored to local conditions. Practically, WCMC can offer advise to agencies and individuals implementing their own priorities for information management. Topics covered, in a broad sense, include information systems development, database development, the role of quality management and its implications, techniques for information production and the role of information for decision support. WCMC has been very active in supporting the development of in-country information management and is the hub of a network of organisations preparing guidelines and materials for capacity building. Documents developed for the UNEP-supported project Development of Supporting Materials for Biodiversity Data Management and Exchange are instructive in providing guidance on the conceptual processes, techniques and tools involved in the management of biodiversity information, and will provide valuable experience for the project. © Guidelines for a National Institutional Survey (in the context of the Convention on Biological Diversity) - provides guidance to countries in the conduct of a survey and assessment of the capacity of existing national institutions to support biodiversity information management e Framework for Information Management - guidelines meant to facilitate the development of capacity for information management and exchange as required by the Convention on Biological Diversity e Electronic Resource Inventory - represents a compilation of reference directories, guidelines, and standards relating to biodiversity information management Characteristics of the information service The Tree Conservation Information Service will be designed to be more than a simple catalogue of data, and will aim to provide benefits to individuals and institutions, at all levels. To serve the needs of this wide audience, the information service will have many different features, and central to its success will be the ability to provide practical solutions to data collection, data storage and information dissemination. Data collection will benefit from standards. Data storage will require an operational database, providing standard database functions such as add, edit and delete, coupled with comprehensive reporting. The use of appropriate look-up tables and standards will ensure good data integrity. Dissemination of information will rely upon presentation functionality, with a strong emphasis on providing information on a selected topic in a range of forms. The media for this will vary, and will certainly take advantage of technologies such as the World Wide Web as well as a desk-top based presentation solution for those without Internet access. 32 Annex 3 The development of the information management system component of the information service will involve a number of distinct phases: User needs analysis Functional specification and prototyping System design and development Implementation Operation The benefit of following a recognised path from concept to an operational system, often referred to as the Structured Development Life Cycle will ensure that the final product has been developed with appropriate consultation between prospective users and developers, and will therefore provide the necessary information management infrastructure to support the information service and its future maintenance and expansion. User Needs Analysis When building an information service, it is essential to identify clearly the requirements of the people who will be using the system, and to identify clearly the information products they require. These will provide clear direction for later phases in the development of the service itself, and ensure that the information service fulfils the objective of those involved. - To assist with establishing user needs, a tree and timber database questionnaire was prepared and mailed (July, 1995) to over 500 organisations in the following categories: National governmental forestry and conservation departments Bilateral and multilateral development agencies National and international NGOs Research organisations Forest product trade organisations Individuals The questionnaire survey had two main aims: e To collect information on existing databases e To determine priority user needs for the Tree Conservation Information Service Information on over 50 existing tree and timber databases has been received and is collated into a meta-database, which may itself become part of the information service. Where the appropriate consent has been given, details of the individual databases will be added to a larger database network, such as CIESIN (Consortium for International Earth Science Information Network) or UNEP GRID (United Nations Environment Programme Global Resource Information Database) meta-database. Information on priority information requirements has been provided by over 80 potential user organisations and individuals and these are summarised in table 1. 33 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Table 1: — Priority information requirements Information Category Species distribution Commercial uses Conservation status global Level of exploitation Wood properties The range of information categories being considered lead to a number of possible questions which the information service could assist with: 34 Is the species of conservation concern? Has the species been evaluated for the new IUCN threat categories? If so, what is the category and criteria by which it was assigned? What information is available to support the threat category? What is the distribution of the species? What are the uses of the species? Is the use of a species sustainable? Annex 3 What are the current levels of trade of the species? What are the types, levels and values of use that are being made of a species? Is the species legally protected - regionally, nationally, internationally? What are the administrative and legislative structures pertaining to the conservation/sustainable use/management of tree species in any particular context? What are the implications of specified human actions and/or natural phenomena? What current actions are being taken to manage tree species, and how effective are they in achieving their objectives? Which individual or organisation holds, has access to, or can generate the data or information relevant to a specific issue? : In addition to identifying key questions, the objectives of collecting the data must also be explored. Information may be required for a range of purposes, such as: To support policy development To support strategic decisions To develop effective legislation (for example, CITES) To be able to implement legislation To evaluate, compare and thus help determine priorities To identify what natural resources currently exist and where To identify where resources exist together (especially where in conflict; eg minerals and high biodiversity) To build scenarios of possible consequences of management actions To identify what changes are taking place, why and how fast To identify what actions will slow or reverse adverse changes To implement conservation measures To comply with international obligations From the range of information categories, and the associated questions, certain data will be required and the following broad categories of data have been considered: Taxonomic (scientific names, authority, synonyms, common names) Distribution (point records, polygons, inferred) Conservation status (criteria and supporting references) Local Use Economic (trade figures, commercial use, level of exploitation) Ecology Habitat type Threats Legal structures Management practices Source of knowledge and expertise Links to other systems (Protected areas, legislation (ELC), land use Through the views expressed in the questionnaire, discussion at the workshop in December 1995 and follow-up meetings with a number of organisations, including FAO and IPGRI, and 35 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop the two SSC specialist Groups, Conifers and Temperate and Broadleaved Trees, a data collection form (appendix A) was designed. The data requested in the form can be summarised as follows: Section 1: Nomenclature and occurrence Section 2: Conservation status, including revised global IUCN threat category and criteria, threats and conservation measures Section 3: Uses and Ecology, including habitat type This form has been designed to collect species information from regional and taxonomic experts. Existing details of species name and distribution are provided from the WCMC Plants Database, and the partially completed forms are distributed to experts who are asked to assign the new IUCN red list categories and complete the form with details of species conservation status, uses, habitat and ecology. By providing a framework for data collection it is hoped that these forms will greatly assist the collection of information to be made available through the information service. Over a thousand of these forms have already been completed by members of the SSC Specialist Groups for Conifers and Temperate Broadleaved Trees and by regional experts in Africa. Data for Asian and American tree species will be collected in the coming months. The data collection form currently provides a framework for a number of data categories. These will be refined and extended to cover the other information categories as the project progresses, and importantly, ongoing consultation and collaboration with other organisations will be maintained and developed. One example of collaboration is illustrated by the Medicinal Plants Specialist Group, who have made some very useful comments on the data collection form and, in particular, how to make the data more relevant to sustainable use issues. It is hoped that this type of liaison will continue throughout the project. Functional specification and prototyping On the basis of the questionnaire results, and ongoing discussions with other organisations and SSC specialist groups, a functional specification of the desired information system can be drafted. In addition to this document, the development of a prototype promotes an interactive approach to development, and ensures that the proposed functioning system correctly addresses the requirements of the users. The development of a small version of the system, built quickly and inexpensively, allows discussion of the potential capabilities, and identifies, at an early stage, areas requiring refinement. The prototype database provides the first draft operational database, and is focused on providing standard database functionality for the information being collected through the data collection form. It has been developed using Microsoft® Foxpro® 2.6 for Windows™. The decision for using this relational database management system to develop the prototype was based upon the ease and speed of development offered by the product, and does not preclude 36 Annex 3 the use of a different product for the final version. The prototype will provide the basis for review and comment from interested parties, and will be refined as part of the ongoing development. During this phase, the following will be documented and produced: Precise information needs of intended users Conceptual and logical data models Process and data flow diagrams Description of all desired information products Inventory of key data holdings and information systems; this will involve the completion of the meta-database e Functioning prototype System Design and Development In the system design phase, the functional requirements resulting from the previous phase will be translated into system specifications. The descriptions of data and processes will become the basis for database structures where computer databases are required, and the definition of procedures and programs. The inter-relaticnships of the modules and the transfer of data between them will be specified. It is at this phase that final decisions are taken on the overall system architecture, the hardware and software to be used. The prototype database developed in the earlier phase will provide invaluable guidance for this phase, and may be used as a starting point for the development of the functioning system. During design, although the major effort comes from the developers, continued user involvement and input is essential to ensure that the evolving system reflects correctly their needs. The design specification defines the development tasks to be undertaken during the development phase. In this phase, again the major effort is from the developers, with essential input and guidance from users. The output of this phase is a functioning system which has been tested during development and should meet the requirements identified by the users. Implementation and Operation During these phases, the system is tested in an operational environment to ensure that it provides the expected functionality. Essentially, the functionality of the system is checked against the original user requirements as documented in the functional specification. Once approved, the system moves into an operational phase, which will continue for its lifetime. This will involve continual maintenance of the system, which may involve refinement and minor modification to adapt to changing requirements. 37 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Summary The information management component of the Tree Conservation Information Service will provide practical solutions to data collection, data maintenance and information dissemination. The development of a data collection form and the use of appropriate standards will promote consistency and guide the collection of data. Data storage will be served by an operational database, providing standard database functionality together with a comprehensive set of reporting tools. A prototype database has been developed, and will serve as a focal point for discussion, and will also guide the development phase. Information presentation will involve a number of media, and will certainly involve establishing a World Wide Web site for the project. Web pages will initially give project information, the list of temperate threatened tree species, and links to other related web sites. To serve those without Internet connection, other forms of presentation will be considered. In addition the Tree Conservation Information Service will aim to make available information on the following: Comprehensive information on species of conservation concern (including maps) Material on sustainable use Details of legislation Management Practices Collection methodologies Information management guidelines Application of the new threat categories To make a significant contribution to the conservation and sustainable use of tree species, the information service will aim to address the following key points: e Make information available to individuals and organisations at all levels e Protect custodians’ legitimate interests e Ensure information is available in a timely manner e Provide information in a form that is readily understood and easily communicated e Ensure information is accompanied by an auditable trail so all underlying data and intermediate products can be scrutinised and independently reviewed e Aid the development of regional capacity for information management e Promote data exchange ¢ Develop collaborative links with other organisations e Be responsive and flexible 38 Annex 3 Appendix A - Data Collection Form (reduced in size) Section 1 - Nomenclature and Occurrence Other scientific name(s) in current use Distribution at BRU* level (*Basic Recording Unit) Global IUCN threat category Is the taxonomy above correct? Is the distribution complete? If not, in which additional countries or states can the species be found? If the species distribution is confined to a particular area? (e.g. a mountain range) Please give the details Section 2 - Conservation Status Is this species of conservation concern in O Yes GO No any part of its range? Please specify where Revised global IUCN threat category Oo EX oO EW OCR O EN o VU (1994) OLR:cd OLR:nt OLR:lc ODD ONE Chere ee At) ee) Raiser Os, Rane en ce | Comment Please use this space to sum up the status of the species. Please include any information about the population size or decline, restricted range, ecological or taxonomic uniqueness, characteristics of regeneration or reproductive strategy, and any indications of the fragility of the state of the species, especially where data are insufficient to assign a threat category Threats { ] Felling [ } Grazing { ] Exploitation of plant parts If multiple threats please indicate order of () Fire { ] Natural Disaster [ ] Pollution concern - use 1 for the most serious [ ] Pests & Diseases [ ] Invasive species [ ] Lack of dispersal/pollinationagents threat(s) [ ] Seed Predation [ ] Poor regeneration for unknown reasons [{ ] Mining (] Tourism [ ] Industrial development [ ] Agriculture [ ] Forestry [ ] Expansion of human habitation [ ] Decline in soil water content [ ] Other major threat: Conservation measures Please give the details of any on-going conservation activities, including legal measures, presence in protected areas, management practices and ex situ conservation, especially where the species is categorised as LR:cd 39 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Section 3 - Uses and Ecology Brief species description s Please enter in the columns provided the EXAMPLE Non-vertebrate pois appropriate letter and number corresponding Medicine on to the part used and the level exploitation Timber Gum, resin, oil etc respectively Fuel Fibre Unspecified, Entire plant, SeeDling, Gall, Food Gene source STem, Bark, Leaf, Inflorescence, Fruit, Food additive Social use Seed, EXudate, Root Animal food Environmental use 1 Major International trade Invertebrate food Ornamental 2 Minor International trade (LKS) Bee plant Other 3 National or Local trade Vertebrate poison 4 Local use only *°*Habitat Type 0 Closed forest 0 Lowland 0 Broadleaved © Cloud forest Please tick whichever © Open forest O Submontane 5 Coniferous © Mangrove boxes describe the © Scrub D Montane O Mixed © Swamp forest species natural habitat © Herbaceous vegetation O Alpine O Wetland most appropriately. O Sparsely vegetated ‘dD Sclerophyllous © Anthropic landscape O Temperate © Seasonal O Tropical O Non-seasonal Please define habitat type further if necessary Species associations Regeneration guild O Early pioneer © Late secondary O Primary Spatial distribution © Abundant © Scattered DO Clumped Obligative species dependencies Dispersal/pollination agents Altitudinal range in metres Status of the species in cultivation O Plantation grown © Widely cultivated © Small scale Relevant references Please cite any references used to complete this form **Please indicate the uses of species only when relevant to human use e.g. only those plants eaten by invertebrates such as silkworms, lac insects etc. should be indicated as invertebrate food. Bee plants are those which are used for honey production. Animal food refers to those plants eaten by domesticated animals. Environmental use refers to shade trees, windbreaks and trees used in erosioncontrol etc. Examples of plants of social use are narcotics, contraceptives, plants of ritual significance etc. ; ***Closed forest consists of trees with interlocking crowns. Open forest (woodland) contains trees with crowns not interlocking. Herbaceous vegetation is dominated by non-woody plants with scattered trees. 40 Annex 4 Draft Working Document 2 Guidelines for the application of the 1994 IUCN Red List Categories to trees These guidelines are for use in conjunction with the red pamphlet JUCN Red List Categories (1994). They are intended to provide practical advice and examples of the application of the categories specifically to tree species. IUCN categories of threat have been in use for over thirty years. The 1994 revision represents the first step to make the categories more quantitative, objective and equable over all taxa (except for microorganisms). As from now, a category can only be assigned to a species if one or more of a choice of five criteria apply. The revised IUCN categories are being applied to tree species as part of the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project being carried out by the World Conservation Monitoring Centre in collaboration with the IUCN Species Survival Commission. Over 2500 tree species have already been evaluated by various experts using different methods and sources, some of which are outlined below. It is the aim of the project that all tree species of concern will be evaluated by the end of 1997 and it is envisaged that these evaluations will be added to and updated as more information becomes available. As part of the project, William Hawthorne was contracted to assign the categories to Ghanaian tree species and report on the process in comparison to the "Star system" which he developed for national use in Ghana. His report illustrates how the criteria can be interpreted in different ways and how the general paucity of data affects the application process. These guidelines have been developed from the recommendations made by William Hawthorne and from other comments made by botanists in their attempt to use the categories. It is hoped that they will help to standardise the work of different assessors, especially those working in isolation. Information sources for evaluating tree species In order to qualify for a category of threat, evidence is needed to demonstrate that a species is experiencing, to various degrees, one of the following: Criterion A. Population is seriously declining or is expected to decline Criterion B. Population is localised, fragmented and declining at an unspecified rate Criterion C. Population is small and declining, and either fragmented or localised if declines are less than 10% Criterion D. Population is very small Information on species conservation status and threats, although more commonly available than in the past, remains scarce and patchy for many countries. Taxonomists, or their published floras and taxonomic revisions, provide essential baseline data on taxonomy, nomenclature, species distribution, habitat type and sometimes additional information. In many cases this is the sole source of information on rare and restricted-range species. It is possible, by examining the geographical and altitudinal ranges, the location and habitat of species, to make preliminary evaluations of their status. The numbers of collections in herbaria and the date they were made can help to indicate the rarity and the likelihood of still finding specimens in the wild. Species which are known from less than five specified locations can automatically qualify 41 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop for a threat category, VU D2. The same species can qualify for more serious threat categories, EN C2b, EN B1 & 2c etc if they are confined to an area or habitat which is declining. Frequently, species which are rarely collected are overlooked or from areas or habitats that are rarely visited. It is up to the assessor to judge whether this is likely to be the case. It is important to record these poorly known species even though they may, eventually, be removed to lower risk categories. Supporting comments are being collected as part of the evaluation process in the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees project. It will be stated where threat categories are given because species are only known from a few collections. Relevant data may also be obtained from transects and sample plots in the field. These give evidence of vegetation changes, species ecology and guild, population densities and structure. Rarely do restricted-range and uncommon species appear in these datasets but these data, along with evidence from forest cover changes, can identify less rare species which may have experienced 20% or more habitat loss. An excerpt from Will Hawthorne’s report in annex 2 gives an example of a typical evaluation. GIS (Geographical Information System) is a powerful tool to store and analyse species distribution information in a standard way. Where species point localities can be stored in a GIS, data can be very successfully manipulated to assess whether their AOO (Area of Occupancy) or EOO (Extent of Occurrence) are within the limits set by the B criterion and also by the criterion for VU D2. David DuPuy and Jonathan Hughes have evaluated a subset of Madagascan Legumes in this way. It is important, initially, to note: @ The categories only apply at a global level to the entire species range. @ The categories can be applied to any taxonomic level, including infra-specific taxa and microspecies. , © It is not expected that all the criteria will be appropriate for any one species. Different criteria apply to different species according to the biology and habit of the taxon. e Exact population figures or areas of occupancy are not essential in order to apply categories. It is possible to infer or project into the future the effects of current and potential threats. The situation known in part of range may also be sensibly extrapolated to assess the overall status of the species if it is unknown elsewhere. Population declines can also be estimated from habitat loss or levels of trade. @ It is essential that the criterion and subcriterion applied are recorded with the category of threat (e.g. VU Alc,d). Lower risk species should be recorded as LR:cd, LR:nt or Lrlc. @ The B criterion should only be used when two of the subcriteria are fulfilled. @ The category "Rare" from the previous version of the IUCN categories of threat no longer exists. Species which are naturally rare can only be assigned a category of threat by having less than 5 localities (VU D2) or by showing signs of some population decline or loss of habitat. @ The most serious category applicable should be assigned to the taxon. 42 ’ : | ] i Annex 4 The definitions interpreted for tree species 1. Mature individuals ("number of individuals known, estimated or inferred to be capable of reproduction"). The capability of reproduction in tree species varies widely and vaguely according to age/size class of individuals (e.g. Bailonella toxisperma first flowers at 50-70 years and doesn’t fruit until roughly twenty years later, conversely Sequoiadendron giganteum may produce seed at less than 20 years of age and continue to do so for 3000 years). We suggest 80% of individuals in any age/class should be capable of fruiting in order to call them "mature". If little is known about age at fruiting, mature individuals should be counted as those of a typical size; e.g. canopy species should be canopy height etc. In addition, individuals should be reproductively effective. Individuals which are unable to regenerate or those hampered by their isolation or by inbalanced sex ratios may be discounted from population estimates. Clones of apomictic species and self-fertilizing species qualify as individuals. 2. Generation time ("average age of parents in the population"). We suggest that the age of species at maturity (see above) should be used as an estimate of their generation time. Where there is no information we suggest the following estimations: 50 years for most tree species, 5-10 for pioneer species or small trees, 100 years or more for slow-growing trees. 3. Population ("the total number of mature individuals"). These estimates should include only mature individuals. For most non-pioneer species population estimates should be a fraction of the total population number. 4. Extreme fluctuations ("in a number of taxa where population size or distribution area varies widely, rapidly and frequently, typically with a variation greater than one order of magnitude"). Tree species are unlikely to experience extreme fluctuations. Therefore in order to qualify a species as threatened according to the B criterion the population must be fragmented or in ten or fewer locations and also declining or likely to decline. 5. Extent of occurrence (KOO) ("the area contained within the shortest continuous imaginary boundary which...encompasses all the known, inferred or projected sites of present occurrence of a taxon, excluding cases of vagrancy"). In tropical regions, if the total population or the sum of disjunct subpopulations takes up the equivalent of approximately 2 degree square then this may qualify the species as having an EOO less than 20,000km?. In more temperate latitudes around 2.5 degree. squares can be occupied. Endangered and Critically endangered species should be assessed at a finer scale, perhaps on a 1:1,000,000 map using grid squares of 50km x 50km. 6. Area of occupancy (AOO) ("smallest area essential at any stage to the survival of existing populations"). This is intended to be a more accurate figure for the area to which species are confined. The estimate should take into account the habitat requirements of the species, whether these are specific pollinators, canopy height or climatic conditions. AOO should be measured on a scale roughly ten times finer than that used to measure EOO. For more endangered species grids of 5 X 5 km and maps of 1:100,000 would be useful. 7. Subpopulation ("distinct groups in the population between which there is little exchange. ..one successful migrant..per year"). In the case of tree species we may define a subpopulation as an isolated population which experiences insignificant seed or pollen migration from other populations within a generation time. 43 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop 8. Extinct in the wild ("exhaustive surveys in known and/or expected habitat...throughout its historic range have failed to record an individual..over a time frame appropriate to the taxon’s life cycle and life form"). There is no suitable time frame in which to judge a tree species to be extinct, especially where few exhaustive surveys have been carried out to recover it. We suggest if its habitat has disappeared or the site has been visited by trained botanists then the species can be considered as Extinct. If the site is restricted then a threat category should be assigned, CR C2b, EN C2b. If the area is less restricted then at least VU D2 is appropriate. Where the species is taxonomically poorly determined then the species should be considered Data Deficient. The criteria applied to tree species Criterion A This criterion is useful in applying the categories to species which are not localised but whose habitat or population has been heavily exploited or degraded or which are regenerating poorly and also for species which are sparsely distributed and declining. Other criteria (B, C or D) are more useful to assign categories to species which are low in numbers or highly localised. Some suggestions are made below as to how to use this criterion. How to make estimates of population decline in the last 100+ years. Three generations of a tree species may span a millennium. Where data are unavailable on species ranges and population dynamics over a long period of time it is wholly appropriate to assume the situation from population declines and ranges that are currently known. It is fair to say that rates of decline are rarely known and more commonly assumed. Should species which are widespread but have experienced a general decline of 20% because of habitat destruction be Vulnerable? Many tropical forest species have experienced a 20% decline in their natural habitat over the past 3 generations. Some of these species, however, do have a wide ecological tolerance. The most likely candidates for this criterion are those which are strictly confined to declining habitat types and not able to regenerate outside of them, or species which are specifically and heavily exploited. » Where species are regenerating poorly. If regeneration is known to be poor then the A criterion could be applied by using projected decline. Will individuals replace themselves in the next three generations? If the species is long living or its regeneration depends on stochastic events it will be hard to project a decline. Criteria C or D may apply. Where species are sparsely distributed. Where species population density is low or populations do not occur in easily-recognisable clumps, from which AOO can be estimated, the only way to denote the species as threatened is through estimated or projected declines in population (criterion A) or in population numbers (criterion D). Where species have experienced a genetic decline. In many cases for tree species there has been a tremendous genetic decline or loss of fitness in the population where the larger and fitter individuals have been harvested. If this is a significant proportion (20% or more) of the matur: population then the taxon can be registered as threatened under criterion A. Annex 4 Criterion B This criterion is useful in order to assign categories to threatened species which are regionally endemic or confined to a particular habitat. Much of the necessary discussion concerning these criteria can be found under the definitions for AOO and EOO and also under Extreme fluctuations. Incidentally, it is expected that many threatened tropical tree species will be assigned under this criterion. Criteria C & D These criteria can only be used where population numbers or locations, from which the species is known, are small or highly restricted. It is also possible to assign these criteria to species which are not regenerating. Where a species is known from less than five locations. A species can be assigned a category of Vulnerable D2 on this information alone. If there are doubts as to whether the population still exists a more serious threat category should be assigned by assuming a decline and that the extent of occurrence is small, EN B1+2c, CR B1+2c, or the population size is less than 10,000 mature individuals, EN C1, C2a or b or CR C1, C2a or b. The assessor may also choose to assume the species is more widespread than evidence suggests and assign a category of Lower Risk. Where the species is not regenerating. This is also discussed above under criterion A. It is embedded in the definition of "mature individuals" that individuals should be effective at reproducing. Individuals which produce offspring which are not viable should not be counted in the population estimate. Therefore population estimates may be made by taking the proportion of the population which are reproducing effectively, the population density and the area of occupancy. Criterion E Few population viability assessments (PVA) have been carried out for tree species. We would be pleased to hear of any. Category Lower Risk, conservation dependent (LR:cd) When should presence in protected areas be used as a means for applying LR:cd? In some cases, if protected area boundaries were to be taken away the tree species inside would rapidly be wiped out and, where the ensuing declines in species population are significant, the species would register as threatened. If the current status of the species does not qualify as threatened, LR:cd is the appropriate category to use in these cases. The effectiveness of protected areas in preventing declines in species populations is sometimes questionable or unknown. In these cases, species should be allocated a category of LR:nt if not qualifying as threatened. Category Lower Risk, near threatened (LR:nt) This category should contain species which narrowly miss the criteria for threatened species. It is also useful for species which appear not to suffer from serious threats but would quickly qualify as threatened if new pests, further exploitation or development of agriculture, forestry or human 45 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop settlements were to occur. Category changes can often occur in rapid or large steps. A LRi:nt species may become EN in one step. Category Lower Risk, least concern (LR:Ic) This is the appropriate categorisation of "not threatened" species. Category Data Deficient (DD) This category is useful to apply to species which are taxonomically dubious. As long as the name is published, however, a threat category can be applied. It must be emphasized that data are largely deficient for a truly accurate evaluation of the status of most tree species. However, this should not deter the assigning of threat categories. DD should be used as a last measure. Case Studies The examples of species evaluations below are provided by regional and taxonomical experts. They illustrate how assessments for tree species may be based on less precise data or little information at all. The supporting comments will be stored, along with the IUCN category, in the Tree Conservation Information Service. Species for which there is limited information Rollinia pickelii - VU B1+2c is restricted to a fairly small area (probably less than 20,000km?) in the highly threatened restinga vegetation on the coast of Paraiba and Pernambuco states in Brazil. Cynometra filifera - CR A2, B1 & 2(a-e) is locally dominant in a patch of Tanzanian forest of about 0.25ha. It is only known elsewhere from a forest, 40km away, which has not been visited for 40 years and is believed no longer to exist. Nectandra herrerae - EN B1+2c was discovered near the train station of Aguas Calientes in Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary in Peru. The area is heavily visited by tourists on foot and by train. The town is rapidly expanding and there is frequent burning of the forests in surrounding areas. Cariniana pauciramosa - EN B1 + 2c has only ever been found along the Manaus to Itacoatiana road in the Brazilian Amazon. Mollinedia lamprophylla - CR C2a, D1 was formerly known to occur along streams. Extensive searches for this understorey species have only located two female specimens, which are restricted to Brazilian Atlantic forest in Corcovado. One specimen has, however, set seed. It is included in the official list of threatened species of Brazil compiled by IBAMA. Extinct species 46 Thuja sutchuenensis - EX was collected from a site. where it was possibly planted, near a temple in Sichuan in 1892. No-one has collected a wild specimen since, despite botanical visits to Sichuan. Chrysophyllum januariense - EX was once collected in Rio de Janeiro in the Laranjeiras forest, which no longer exists. Seen Annex 4 A species displaying poor regeneration Heritiera longipetiolata - VU C1 consists of about 1090 trees on Guam, several hundred on Tinian and less than 100 on Saipan. Lack of regeneration on Guam is the major problem there. This may be caused by seed or seedling predation by ungulates or crabs. Habitat loss is a minor problem currently and the species status is not especially fragile. If the lack of regeneration is found to be a significant problem this species could easily qualify for a category of EN. Mountain top or isolated species Gustavia erythrocarpa - Vu D2 appears to be restricted to non-flooded forest between 1250 and 1300m in Amazonian Brazil and adjacent parts of Venezuela. Araucaria schmidii - VU D2 is known from one location on escarpments near the summit of Mt. Panié in New Caledonia. It is possibie that individuals could be found on neighbouring mountains but this is a remote area and botanically less well known. Widespread timber species Amburana acreana - VU Ald+2d formerly abundant in terra firme forest, this species has been heavily exploited for its wood which is used for making luxury furniture. In Rond6nia the number of sawmills, which process principally A.acreana, has increased 8 fold between 1975 and 1982. The species is now on the official list of threatened species of Brazil compiled by IBAMA. Fitzroya cupressoides - EN Alcd & A2cd has been logged since the 1500’s, particularly in the mid nineteenth century when Europeans eliminated all populations in poorly drained lowlands in Chile and Argentina. In the Andes clear-cutting and human-made fires have caused the loss of Fitzroya forests. Illegal logging and export of the timber continues despite national and international legislation banning it. The species’ very slow growth and maturation (200 years) makes the prospects for sustainable management of the species highly unlikely. Lower Risk but near threatened species Agathis vitiensis - LR:nt is a timber species endemic to Fiji. It is found in low densities but is relatively unthreatened. If logging activities intensify in the area then the status of this species will become a concern. Manilkara rufula - LR:nt occurs in numerous subpopulations in submontane forest in central and eastern states of Brazil. Recent collections have suggested a decline in the number of individuals Micropholis gnaphaloclados - LR:nt is a tree of submontane cerrado, caatinga and rocky outcrops. It ranges from Pernambuco to Mato Grosso in Brazil but the populations appear to be highly fragmented. Lower Risk least concern taxa Dacrycarpus expansus - LR:Ic is locally common or in pure or co-dominant stands in disturbed areas and on the edge of tree fern grassland in Irian Jaya and Papua New Guinea. Cordia sebestena var. caymanensis - LR:lc occurs in all three Cayman islands. There is potential for hybridisation with nominate subspecies imported for landscaping. Restrictions on plant imports and increasing interest in local propagation may reduce this threat. Widespread habitat destruction is reducing the population size but the species is well represented in protected areas and often retained in landscaping. A Conservation dependent taxon Cupressus arizonica var. nevadensis - LR:cd a variety known from four localities in nine groves in the Piute Mountains of California. Some risk occurs from fires. Several occurrences are within protected areas. 47 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Data Deficient species Monodora junodii var macrantha - DD is endemic to northern Mozambique, where war and its aftermath has prevented any kind of field work. The taxonomy, extent of the species range and current status needs to be confirmed. 48 Annex 4 Key to the application of red list categories to tree species Can the species population or habitat be said to experience declines to any degree, in the past, present or future? Is the species population and habitat in a completely stable state? Has or will the global population experience declines of 20% or more because of poor regeneration, exploitation, habitat degradation or loss, or any other reason?’ (N.B.Geographically confined or small populations may also qualify for other criteria, continue to 3.) Assign 20% habitat/species declines WU Al or 2(a-e) 50% habitat/species declines EN Al or 2(a-e) 80% habitat/species declines CR AI or 2(a-e) Is the global population decline unqualified or less than 20%? Go to 3 Is the global population known or likely to contain less than 10,000 mature individuals? (N.B. Geographically confined species may also qualify the B criterion, continue to 5.) Is the global population unknown or likely to contain more than 10,000 mature individuals? ! It is assumed that three generations is greater than 10 years and is at least 100 years 49 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop 4 Is the global population experiencing declines of 10% or more and does it contain no more than 10,000 mature individuals? or 2500 mature individuals + 20% decline? or 250 mature individuals + 25% decline? Is the global population fragmented and containing no more than 10,000 mature individuals + subpopulations of less than 1000 mature individuals? or 2500 mature individuals + subpopulations of less than 250 mature individuals? or 250 mature individuals + subpopulations of less than 50 mature individuals? Is the species only known from one population containing no more than : 10,000 mature individuals? or 2500 mature individuals? or 250 mature individuals? Is the species none of the above? Does the species exend over a range less than 20,000km? and can it be assumed that the species is known from less than ten locations or it is fragmented?” Assign Extent of Occurrence 20,000km? VU B1&2(a-e) Extent of Occurrence 5000km?2 EN B1&2(a-e) Extent of Occurrence 100km2 CR B1&2(a-e) Does the species extend over a range greater than 20,000km? or can the assumptions above not be made? Go to 7 ? If an accurate measure of the actual species Area of Occupancy (AOO) can be made refer to the IUCN red list categories booklet. 50 Annex 4 Is the global population known or likely to contain less than 1000 mature individuals in the wild? Less than 1000 mature individuals Less than 250 mature individuals Less than 50 mature individuals Is the global population unknown or likely to be more than 1000 mature indivduals in the wild? Is the species only known from less than five localities or from an area less than 100km2? Is the species known from more than five localities? Technically it is correct for these species to be assigned a threat category. It is sometimes likely that individuals of the species are overlooked in the field and should be found to be more widespread. The decision whether to take this to be the case or not is up to the assessor. Assign VU D2 It may be worthwhile to reconsider whether species can be presumed to be declining and either confined to less than 20,000km? or to less than 10,000 mature individuals. Return to 1 Does the species narrowly miss qualifying one of the above criteria or will it become threatened should circumstances worsen or change for the worse? Go to 10 Is the species unlikely to qualify as threatened unless under very unusual circumstances? Assign LR:Ic 10 Is a significant proportion of the population contained within a protected area so that, in the future, the species will be cushioned from fulfilling a category of threat? Assign LR:cd Assign LR:nt Does the species occur outside protected areas? 51 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop An excerpt from "Conservation priorities amongst Ghana’s forest trees. An assessment of the IUCN red-list guidelines, and a comparison with Ghana’s own star-rating Population numbers are next to impossible to estimate for continental tree species in the tropics. Ghana has carried out one of the most extensive surveys of its forests in Africa and yet it is impossible to collect sufficient details about rare species to validate a population estimate. The approach taken by William Hawthorne in assessing the status of tree species in Ghana involves estimating the likely EOO from the distribution of the species habitat and assuming its rate of destruction in the last few decades from published figures. The following is an extract from the working document prepared by William Hawthorne for the project’s technical conference in Wageningen in November 1995. Forest Types are those defined by Hall and Swaine (1981): WE Wet Evergreen, ME Moist Evergreen Wet forest species: General trends [In Ghana] the decline in forest quality and quantity has been less dramatic here [in wet forests] than in drier forests, yet the statistics are rarely presented in a way which allows this to be quantified. The greatest number of globally rare species in Ghana are wetter evergreen forest species, apparently restricted to these forests by a wetter climate/base-poor soil there, although there is also much speculation about their status as ‘refugees’ in or near Pleistocene refugia there (see summary discussion and references in Hawthorne, 1995). A sketch of enclaves of Wetter (evergreen) Guinean forest is shown in Parren and de Graaf, 1995. A species restricted to this vegetation in Ghana has a maximum EOO of about 2000 kmz, but the internal variation is substantial and no rare species are found throughout. Many such species favour swamps or riverside forest, for instance. Much of this vegetation type in Ivory Coast is deforested. The total area in the Ghana and Ivory Coast Block is probably < 3000 km. A species restricted to this area would qualify as at least endangered (B1,B2), without further consideration. Most species occur outside this block, however, either in the Liberian block of WE forest or in the ME zone in Ghana and elsewhere. In Liberia and Sierra Leone, the remnant WE type zone is larger, possibly about 15000-20000 km? (from maps in Parren and de Graaf, 1995). Some species are restricted to the WE zone, others extend various degrees into the drier ME zone. In Ghana the area of ME zone forest is about 2.5 times the WE area, but is more widely disturbed. Assuming the same trend for the Liberian block, we can estimate an effective ME area of the order of perhaps 30,000 km?. Combined with the WE area, this sets a maximum area on Upper Guinean wetter-forest species. White (1983) includes both WE and ME type forest in his mapping unit 1a ("hygrophilous coastal evergreen Guineo-Congolian rain forest"). The extent of this mapping unit in Lower Guinea is about twice the extent of that of Upper Guinea. Most Guinea-wide species (i.e. species in both Upper and Lower Guinea) have been filtered out from consideration; those that remain for consideration here are those like Afrostyrax lepidophyllus which seem restricted within these zones, so these total areas of Guinean Wet forest are much broader than the EOO (esp.AOO) of these species? 3 Note that attempts to model AOO using known distribution and the environmental associations of such species would in most cases lead to a gross overestimate of AOO. 52 Annex 4 Although the area of this type of forest is limited, it seems that forest loss has not been as bad in such areas (especially the WE type) as in drier areas, because of negligible loss due to fire, lower densities of timber than in semideciduous forests and rather infertile (heavily leached) soils, although mining in the ME belt of Ghana has accounted for significant losses e.g. around Tarkwa. Cocoa farming has not been as great a factor in the WE zone as it as in the ME zone. Mining is a potential threat for deforestation in Ghana, with recent quarrying in Neung and Cape Three Points, and there has been significant forest loss on unreserved land in the WE zone (and in Western Region generally) since Ahn’s (1959) summary of land-use patterns. Deforestation of Subri Forest Reserve and elsewhere due to industrial plantation is, being moderately optimistic, unlikely to expand much further. Wet Forest species: Specific cases It is hard to place with confidence any WE species as ssthecit endangered, in spite of the limited range of many of them. Some potential contenders, like Trichoscypha chevalieri (found only a few times ever, in a limited total range) come very close, but our picture of this species’ situation is a little too hazy to commit it to this alarming status. Instead, I propose to put the majority of such (locally and globally) rare, systematically declining WE species in the Endangered category, preferably with a hair-trigger, set to upgrade their status to critical if any more negative factors arise. Alternatively, any future records e.g. in Lower Guinea are liable to render the species merely Vulnerable. For species with a wider distribution, only Monocyclanthus vignei (from two main areas) attains endangered status. The others must therefore be defined as Vulnerable. Wet forest species: tentative conclusions: VULNERABLE (VU-B1&2c & Alc) Tapura ivorensis Drypetes afzelii (EN?) Sapium aubrevillet Cassipourea hiotou Cola umbratilis Placodiscus bancoensis (P. bracteosus ?) Spathandra barteri Trichilia ornithothera Xylopia elliotii Croton aubrevillei Desmostachys vogelii Amanoa bracteosa Anthonotha vignei Berlinia occidentalis Cryptosepalum tetraphyllum Dactyladenia dinklagei Deinbollia molliuscula Didelotia idae Gilbertiodendron bilineatum Gilbertiodendron splendidum Isolona deightonii Neostenanthera hamata Ouratea amplectens Pausinystalia lane-poolei Pavetta mollissima Phyllanthus profusus Piptostigma fugax Placodiscus oblongifolius Rhaptopetalum beguei Schumanniophytum VULNERABLE CONTINUED Synsepalum aubrevillet Trichoscypha albiflora T. beguei T. cavalliensis Afrostyrax lepidophyllus Allexis cauliflora Dasylepis assinesis Amanoa strobilacea Citropsis gabunensis Crotonogyne manniana Didelotia unifoliolata Gluema ivorensis Oricia suaveolens Pellegriniodendron diphyllum Piptostigma fugax Pseudagrostistachys africana Trichoscypha atropurpurea Warneckea memecyloides 53 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop ENDANGERED (B1&2c) Chrysophyllum azaguieanum Dactyladenia hirsuta Hemadradenia chevalieri Hymenostegia gracilipes Sericanthe toupetou Trichoscypha chevalieri Monocyclanthus vignei Neolemonierra clitandrifolia This large tree probably a very long generation time. Its habit extends to Upland evergreen forest, which has declined more than the lowland variants. References: (The following species are perhaps of less concern than the above; LR:cd "Conservation dependent” (in Forest reserves), might be more appropriate. Crudia gabonensis Probably well-buffered in lower Guinea. T. oba Raphia Palma-pinus Guinea-wide Swamp species often outside forest.. Uapaca paludosa Xylopia rubescens Magnistipula zenkeri Anisophyllea meniaudii Dichaetanthera africana Although rare in Ghana a pioneer of wet forest Ehretia trachyphylla. Pioneer-ish, and well into ME zone Ficus tesselata (Homalium dewevrei & longistylum) Complicated taxonomy/variation pattern and distribution area. These appear to be widespread. ?Data deficient. Ahn, P.M., 1959. The principal areas of remaining original forest in western Ghana and their potential value for agricultural purposes. Journ. West African Science Association 5(2):91-100. Hall, J.B. and Swaine, M.D., 1981. Distribution and ecology of vascular plants in a tropical rain forest. Forest vegetation in Ghana. Geobotany 1. Junk, The Hague. 383pp. Hawthorne, W.D., 1995. Holes and the sums of parts in Ghanaian forest:regneration, scale and sustainable use. Proc. Roy. Soc. Edinburgh 104b Parren, M.P.E. and de Graaf, N.R. de, 1995. The quest for natural forest management in Ghana, Céte d'Ivoire and Liberia. Tropenbos series 13. Wageningen, The Netherlands. 54 Annex 5 Conservation evaluations for selected widespread tree species Amburana cearensis Distribution: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay and Peru Conservation status: EN (Ala, 2a,c,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3. Aniba rosaeodora Distribution: Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Surinam and Venezuela Conservation status: CR (Ala, 2a,c,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3. Araucaria angustifolia Distribution: Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay Conservation status: CR (Ala, 2a,c,d) Evaluated by Working Group 3. Note - previously evaluated as VU by SSC Specialist Group - need to refer back for further consideration. Aspidosperma polyneuron Distribution: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay and Peru Conservation status: EN (Ala, 2a,c,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3, noting that in Colombia the species is more severely threatened. Balfourodendron riedelianum Distribution: Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay Conservation status: EN (Ala, 2a,c,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3, noting that the genus is under revision. Bertholletia excelsa Distribution: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, the Guianas, Peru and Venezuela Conservation status: VU (Ala,c 2a,c,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3. Caesalpinia paraguariensis Distribution: Argentina, Bolivia and Brazil Conservation status: VU (Ala,c). Evaluated by Working Group 3. Cariniana legalis Distribution: Brazil Conservation status: WVU (Ala,c). Evaluated by Working Group 3. 55 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Caryocar costaricense Distribution: Conservation status: Cedrela fissilis Distribution: Conservation status: Cedrela odorata Distribution: Conservation status: Costa Rica, Colombia?, Panama and Venezuela VU. Evaluated by Working Group 2 on the basis of: high exploitation, restricted distribution, weak regeneration - well known by the group. Criteria needed. Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Venezuela EN. Evaluated by Working Groups 2 and 3. Criteria needed. Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Cayman Is., Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, St.Kitts, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, St.Lucia, Surinam and Venezuela Working Group 2 considered this to be LR:Ic based on high levels of exploitation but also high regeneration capacity, however differences between countries - in Panama relatively abundant in areas that have some - conservation, in El Salvador good regeneration, but trees are cut when very Chlorocardium rodiei Distribution: Conservation status: Dalbergia retusa Distribution: Conservation status: 56 young and grazing is a problem. Working Group 3 considered this to be EN based on high levels of exploitation and regeneration problems due to a commonly occuring disease in apical buds of seedlings. On the basis of information from countries in significant part of range it would seem that this species does fall within the threatened categories - information from more countries will be sought. Brazil, Guyana, French Guiana, Surinam and Venezuela VU (Ala,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3. Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and Panama VU. Evaluated by Working Group 2. Criteria needed. Annex 5 Guaiacum officinale Distribution: Anguilla, Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, British Virgin Is., Colombia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Montserrat, Netherland Antilles, Puerto Rico, St. Martin & St Bartholomew, St. Vincent, Turks & Caicos Is., US Virgin Is. and Venezuela Conservation status: EN (C2a). Evaluated by Working Group 2. Guaiacum sanctum Distribution: Aruba, Bahamas, Bonaire, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Florida, Guatemala, Hispaniola, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and Puerto Rico Conservation status: EN (C2a). Evaluated by Working Group 2. Juglans neotropica Distribution: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela Conservation status: EN (Ala, 2a,c,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3. Liquidambar styraciflua Distribution: Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and USA Conservation status: LR:lc. Evaluated by Working Group 2. Mezilaurus itauba Distribution: Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana, Peru and Surinam Conservation status: VU (Ala,). Evaluated by Working Group 3. Minquartia guianensis Distribution: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Peru, Surinam and Venezuela Conservation status: Working Group 2 considered this to be LR:Ic; Working Group 3 considered this to be VU based on observations in Brazil - where although relatively abundant it is intensely used by local people for construction. People are having to go further into forest to find. More information is needed on the situation in other countries. Ocotea porosa Distribution: Argentina?, Brazil and Paraguay? Conservation status: CR (Ala,c,d). Evaluated by Working Group 3. 57 Conservation & Sustainable Management of Trees - Report of Regional Workshop Oreomunnea pterocarpa Distribution: Conservation status: Costa Rica, Mexico? and Panama? EN (C2a). Evaluated by Working Group 2. Pilgerodendron uviferum Distribution: Conservation status: Argentina and Chile CR. Evaluated by Working Group 3. Note - previously evaluated as VU by SSC Specialist Group - need to refer back for further consideration. Criteria needed. Platymiscium pleiostachyum Distribution: Conservation status: Podocarpus parlatori Distribution: Conservation status: Schinopsis balansae Distribution: Conservation status: Swietenia mahagoni Distribution: Conservation status: Virola surinamensis Distribution: Conservation status: 58 Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua EN (C1). Evaluated by Working Group 2. Argentina, Bolivia and Peru CR (A1). Evaluated by Working Group 3, noting the very restricted and scattered subpopulations. Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil and Paraguay LR:Ic. Evaluated by Working Group 3. Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Cayman Is., Colombia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Florida Keys, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Montserrat, St.Kitts & Nevis, St.Martin & St.Barthelemy, St. Vincent, Peru, St.Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Is. and Venezuela EN (C1). Evaluated by Working Group 2. Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Peru, Surinam and Venezuela EN (Ald 2a,c,d). Evaluated by Working Groups 2 and 3 - widely used for plywood manufacture. agaceae EN B1+2c, C2b aree localities of this species are known, Occurring in open glades and Tubland, including new localities which were reported in the past five ars. The range is not expanding but populations may be stable. Data cumulated by Stoynoff and Hess support the contention that the taxon is species and not a subspecies of Q.shumardii. igaceae LR Ic -xico (Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Sonora) rcus arkansana than five localities of this woodland species are known to exist. ulations are thought to be declining because of habitat destruction by grazing and conversion to farmland. x basaseachicensis 1 in Durango in submontane woodland or scrub. The populations are jated and none are believed to be large. "rcus benthamii Zaceae VU Alc litemala, Mexico (Chiapas, Oaxaca) il the taxonomy of Central American specimens is confirmed the exact ¢ of this species cannot be consolidated but could extend to southern s of Central America. The rate of destruction of the moist forest itat in the last few decades qualifies the species as threatened. aceae DD ‘status of this species is not well consolidated. It appears to have extinct in the areas from which it was known. There is, however, eae EN B1+2e ico (Baja California) pecies occurs in low density in a xeric habitat in the foothills of the 8 Lazaro. The area is accessible and subject to grazing pressure. ration has not been observed in recent years. cus brenesii eae DD Rica momically doubtful species apparently endemic to the department of la. Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees Draft Species Summaries These species summaries are produced from the WCMC Trees Database, and represent the expert opinion of a wide number of individuals. World Conservation Monitoring Centre, 219 Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 ODL, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1223 277314 Fax: +44 (0) 1223 277136 Email: info@wemc.org.uk Annex 6 Quercus bumelioides Fagaceae VU Alc Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama The montane moist forest habitat of this species has suffered serious declines in past decades. The tree can grow to large proportions and has obvious value as a timber tree. Quercus cedrosensis Fagaceae VU D2 Mexico (Baja California) A species restricted to a specialised sclerophyllous habitat at lowland to montane altitudes. Cedros Island suffers from Overgrazing by goats. More information on the regeneration of this species may qualify it for a status of endangered. Quercus coahuilensis Fagaceae DD Mexico (Coahuila) It is suspected the species will prove to be threatened when the area of occupancy is calculated taking into account the altitudinal range of the species. Quercus convallata Fagaceae DD Mexico (Jalisco, Nayarit) The taxonomic status of this species is dubious. Quercus conzattii Fagaceae LR Ic Mexico (Durango, Jalisco, Oaxaca, Zacatecas) Quercus costaricensis Fagaceae VU B1+2e Costa Rica Occurring in the montane forest of Volcan Irazu and Cerro Chirripé, the Species is restricted to an area of occupancy of less than 2000km?. Although deforestation has been extensive in the past, these areas are now given some degree of protection. Quercus deliquescens Fagaceae VU D2 Mexico (Chihuahua) A species of dry montane scrub, known only from one population system in the valley of Rio Concho and north along Rio Grande. Quercus depressa Fagaceae LR Ic Mexico (Hidalgo, Mexico Distrito Federal, Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz) Quercus devia Fagaceae vu D2 Mexico (Baja California) Two or three populations occur in dry montane forest, where grazing Page: Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees Draft Species Summaries pressure is high. The mainland Mexican species, Q.viminea, may be synonymous, in which case the species would qualify for a status of lower risk. Quercus dumosa Fagaceae EN Alct2c Mexico (Baja California), United States (California) A number of populations (e.g. Santa Barbara, Hollywood and Griffith Park) have disappeared. The lowland scrub habitat of the remaining populations is under threat from pollution and expansion of urban and industrial areas. Quercus engelmannii Fagaceae VU Alc Mexico (Baja California), United States (California) Extensive declines of the sclerophyllous habitat of the species have been observed over the past 50 years. Regeneration of the species is poor and the remaining habitat is under threat from urban, agricultural and industrial developments. Quercus excelsa Fagaceae DD Mexico (Jalisco, Veracruz) Quercus flagellifera Fagaceae VU Alc Guatemala Confined to the moist montane forests of east and central Guatemala, the species will have experienced declines in its habitat in the last 50 years. There are a number of estimated rates of deforestation, all exceed an annual rate of 1%. Quercus fulva Fagaceae LRIc Mexico (Chihuahua, Durango, Sinaloa) Quercus galeanensis Fagaceae VU D2 Mexico (Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas) A scarce species, characterised by the leaves being vertically appressed to the twigs, occurring in submontane to montane chaparral. It is restricted to 2 populations occupying a narrow band (150km x 10-20km) from Galeana, Nuevo Leone to the Miquihrana region in Tamaulipas. Quercus georgiana Fagaceae EN B1+2ce United States (Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina) Small isolated populations are restricted to granite outcrops, occupying an area less than 500km?. The impact of tourism is considerable on Stone Mt. Drought, poor regeneration, soil erosion and compaction are all weakening the status of the species. 08/01/97 These species summaries are produced from the WCMC Trees Database, and represent the expert opinion of a wide number of individuals. World Conservation Monitoring Centre, 219 Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 ODL, U.K. Page: Tel: +44 (0) 1223 277314 Fax: +44 (0) 1223 277136 Email: info@wemce.org.uk ; Quercus germana Fagaceae VU Alc Mexico A species of submontane seasonal dry forest, which has experienced dramatic declines over the last few decades. Forest has been converted f agricultural use, especially coffee plantations. The trees are often decked with an array of densely packed epiphytes. Quercus graciliformis Fagaceae CR C2b United States (Texas) One small isolated population exists in riparian oak woodland in the Chisos Mts. The locality is threatened by the activities of tourists from a nearby camping ground and by occasional drought. Previous records fro Mexico are erroneous. Quercus gravesii Fagaceae LR Ic Mexico (Coahuila), United States (Texas) Quercus gulielmi-treleasei DD Fagaceae Costa Rica, Panama The taxonomic status of the species is uncertain. It is confined to Chiriq in Costa Rica and Cartago in Panama in wet montane forests. Quercus hintonii Fagaceae Mexico (Mexico State) A submontane to montane dry forest species which is confined to as area (less than 10 X 10km) along a road. Much of the area is in the process of conversion into avocado plantations and human settlements. CR B1+2ac Quercus hypoxantha Fagaceae DD Mexico (Coahuila, Nuevo Leon) It is suspected that this species will prove to be threatened when the of occupancy is calculated taking into account the altitudinal range of’ species. Quercus invaginata Fagaceae DD Mexico (Coahuila) It is suspected that the species will prove to be threatened when the occupancy is calculated taking into account the altitudinal range of the species. Quercus liebmannii Fagaceae LRIc Mexico (Oaxaca) 4ercus x macdonaldii agaceae VU D2 nited States (California) Ne species is restricted to a few scrubby localities in Santa Rosa, Santa ina and Santa Cruz Islands. Control of grazing and the removal of cep has helped oak regeneration on Santa Cruz Island. ercus macdougallii igaceae VU D2 exico (Oaxaca) idistictive species known only from the type locality in the dry montane sts of Oaxaca. It has not been recently collected and it is biologically aceae LR Ic xico (Jalisco, Michoacan) rcus miquihuanensis aceae EN B1+2e ico (Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas) bendemic of Pefia Nevada and Miquihuana, locally common in montane ¢-Oak forest and also chaparral, covering an area less than 500km?. ing activities and overgrazing threaten the habitat. zaceae EN B1+2ce ted States (Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina) 5 species is known from two isolated populations, consisting, in total, roximately 1000 individuals, with an extent of occurrence of Okm? or less than 150km? area of occupancy. Habitat loss, poor seed ility and chestnut blight are contributing to the species decline. cus parvula var. parvula jaceae EN B1+2ce led States (California) small populations on Santa Cruz Island and 5-6 populations in Santa County are known. Occurring in maritime chaparral and pine , NO population extends more than 10km?. Habitat degradation and ing are threats on Santa Cruz Island. us peninsularis eae DD (Baja California) tane species. The number of localities and population status are S perpallida eae DD (Baja California Sur, Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Sonora) Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees Draft Species Summaries Quercus planipocula Fagaceae LR Ic Mexico (Guerrero, Michoacan, Nayarit, Sinaloa) Quercus praeco Fagaceae LR Ic Mexico (Jalisco, Nayarit) Quercus praineana Fagaceae DD Mexico (Jalisco, Sinaloa) Quercus purulhana Fagaceae VU Alc Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua A moist montane forest species, abundant in areas, but which has been subject to the general declines in forest habitats in Central America. Quercus rapurahuensis Fagaceae VU Alc Costa Rica, Panama A moist forest species which has been subject to the general forest declines in this area. Further investigation may show that the species is more seriously threatened. Quercus rysophylla Fagaceae DD Mexico (Nuevo Leon, San Luis Potosi, Tamaulipas) The known populations are small but their extent is not known. Quercus skinneri Fagaceae VU Alc El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico (Chiapas) The species is widespread and often occurs in abundance in moist montane forests. It is also frequently planted. General rates of deforestation in the past decades qualifies the species as vulnerable. Quercus skutchii Fagaceae DD Guatemala, Mexico (Chiapas) Quercus subspathulata Fagaceae VU Alc Mexico (Durango, Jalisco, Nayarit, Sinaloa) A forest species which has suffered extensive destruction of its habitat. Quercus x tardifolia Fagaceae CRDI United States (Texas) A maximum of 5 trees are thought to occur in dry montane woodlands in Chisos Mts. The hybrid is a product of Q.hypoxantha and Q.gravesii. One of the parents no longer occurs in the area. These species summaries are produced from the WCMC Trees Database, and represent the expert opinion of a wide number of individuals. World Conservation Monitoring Centre, 219 Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 ODL, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1223 277314 Fax: +44 (0) 1223277136 Email: info@wemc.org.uk Page: 3 Conservation and Sustainable Management of Trees Draft Species Summaries Quercus tomentella Fagaceae VU Bl+2ce Mexico (Guadalupe I), United States (California) The regeneration of the species is hampered because of overgrazing in the dry forest areas to which it is restricted on the channel islands of California and Guadelupe Island of Mexico. Quercus tonduzii Fagaceae DD Costa Rica A species of uncertain taxonomic status, found in the mountains of central Costa Rica in Alajuela. One collection from 1896 is cited from Volcan Poas. Quercus toumeyi Fagaceae LRIc Mexico (Chihuahua, Sonora), United States (Arizona, New Mexico) A species scarcely distributed in shrub-thomland and limestone hillsides between 1300 and 1600m altitude. Quercus undata Fagaceae DD Mexico (Durango) Quercus uxoris Fagaceae VU Alc Mexico (Colima, Guerrero, Jalisco) The extent of population declines is not documented but the species occurrence, in an area which has experienced dramatic forest destruction, qualifies it as, at least, vulnerable. Quercus vicentensis Fagaceae VU Alc EI Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico Declines in population numbers have not been recorded but the species occurrence in an area of extensive forest destruction qualifies it as vulnerable. eee eee ee eee These species summaries are produced from the WCMC Trees Database, and represent the expert opinion of a wide number of individuals. World Conservation Monitoring Centre, 219 Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 ODL, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1223 277314 Fax: +44 (0) 1223 277136 Email: info@wemc.org.uk 08/01/97 Baer. CN The World Conservation Union BSY WORLD CONSERVATION MONITORING CENTRE World Conservation Monitoring Centre 219 Huntingdon Road Cambridge CB3 ODL United Kingdom Telephone: +44 1223 277314 Fax: +44 1223 277136 e-mail: info@wemce.org.uk partners who developed the World Conservation Strategy for the Earth: [\UCN-The World Conservation Union, Environment Programme, and WWF-World Wide Fund for