Patterns of Tree Distribution within Small Communities of the Sudanian Savanna-Sahel

Abstract

Crown diameter and tree density were measured in 52 communities in the Sudan-Sahel using satellite imagery to determine the relationships between rainfall and distance from community center to crown size diameter and tree density. As distance from the community center increased, tree density and crown diameter decreased. As rainfall increased, tree density decreased while crown diameter increased. Distance from the community center is a proxy for age since urbanization and our results indicate that older parts of communities show longer and more consistent tree management. The trends in patterns of tree distribution and size in communities are different from those in natural woodlands.

Keywords

• shade
• amenity plantings
• rainfall
• environmental services
• urban forestry
• Sahel
• satellite imagery
• Africa