Shea forest stands mapping and inventory in Yei County, South Sudan

nilotica) grows abundantly in Yei County. The shea fruit is edible and the oil that is extracted from the kernels can be processed into cooking oil, soap and body oil. As shea fruits are collected and processed by women, this natural resource is valuable commodity to this marginalized group. Between February and March 2004, the Forestry Working Group assessed the economic potential of the resource. A total of 11 shea trees stands were mapped and inventoried. For each forest stand the team described the forest type, tree species composition, density per hectare, land use and damages. In addition, the survey team also observed the customary laws protecting the shea trees and the threats to these trees. This survey is part of USDA/University of Missouri"s ongoing effort to promote increased agricultural productivity, natural resource conservation and capacity building in Southern Sudan. (University of Missouri website abstract)