The public?s help is being sought to prune the city?s numerous Ghaf trees.
Al Ain Municipality launches Ghaf pruning driveby | 01-02-2014 22:05 |
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The public?s help is being sought to prune the city?s numerous Ghaf trees. The tree, popularly known as the umbrella tree, is of central importance in desert eco-culture and is part of the UAE?s cultural heritage. The tree is indigenous to the UAE and was a source of food for domestic animals and wildlife and also supported the Bedouin lifestyle. The municipality is running the seasonal pruning campaign to boost the tree?s natural growth and the city?s image. Experts said the tree is perfectly adapted to the arid desert environment with remarkably extensive roots that reach as deep as 30 metres to absorb groundwater. It also helps fertilise soil for agriculture by releasing nitrogen when it dies. The tree, which withstands prolonged drought and high salinity, remains green the year round. Camel camps were always located in Ghaf groves, which also serve as shelters for people in the summer months. The tree also has numerous medicinal benefits. Source: http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/al-ain-municipality-launches-ghaf-pruning-drive-1.1277877 |
