ABOVE GROUND BIOMASS AND CARBON STOCK SEQUESTRATION POTENTIALS AND ECONOMIC VALUE OF FOREST PLANTATION ESTABLISHED IN NASARAWA

Abstract

Forest plantations serve as vital carbon sinks for climate change mitigation and provide economic opportunities via carbon credit trading. This study evaluated the aboveground biomass (AGB), carbon sequestration potential, and economic value of a 10-year-old plantation integrated with native tree species at Nasarawa State University, Shabu-Lafia Campus, Nigeria. In the 1.90-hectare site, seven plots were randomly selected, measuring tree DBH and height for all the species. AGB was calculated using allometric model incorporating wood density. Total aboveground carbon stock was 15.49 tonnes, equating to 56.80 tonnes of CO₂, primarily from large native trees like Parkia biglobosa (1314.9kg) on average and abundant species such as Khaya senegalensis (73.23kg), Gmelina arborea (51.795kg), and Tectona grandis (60.96kg). This shows that the rate of AGB accumulation is higher in K. senegalensis with lower numbers of trees, 66 compare to G. arborea with higher number of trees,117 lower in AGB, all planted within the same period.  Economic valuation estimated US $930 (NGN 1.42 million) in potential revenue. The plantation represents a significant carbon sink with economic benefits, highlighting the value of conserving native species alongside exotic management for optimal sequestration. It is therefore recommended that pursuing carbon credit certification, silvicultural planning with thinning and enrichment, and long-term monitoring for climate finance and research.