Modelling Carbon Stock Trends in a Previously Exploited Forest Protected Area: An Opportunity for the REDD+ Initiative?

In the perspective to valorize forest ecosystem through the REDD+ mechanism, the Belabo-Diang Massif Forest (BDMF), previously communal forest area in Cameroon, was recently reclassified as an integral ecological reserve after a strong degradation due to anthropic pressure. To assess the future impact of this reclassification, the objective of this study is to predict the future trend of carbon stock's potential of the BDMF in the absence of logging. Methodologically, the carbon stocks estimation for the year 2020 is based on botanical inventory data make with 56 plots of 50 m × 50 m each. Carbon mapping and future trends of carbon stocks for the year 2050 were done using field data and remote sensing. Results show that carbon stocks in BDMF varied from 0 to 262 MgC.ha^-1 based to land cover. The carbon stocks of classed [50-100] was the most represented with an area of 22,041.15 ha (37%). The weak area was represented by the carbon class >200 MgC.ha^-1 (876.7 ha, 1.1%). The total carbon stocks of BDMF in 2020 is 5,916,337 MgC, and it is estimated in 2050 at 4,821,140 MgC when ecological events like regeneration, ecologically succession and absence of degradation and deforestation are considered. The finding of this study represents a crucial information that can help in accomplishment of efforts to implement climate mitigation initiatives like REDD+ as it can serve as incentive develop a payment for ecosystem services like those of climate regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]