Knowledge for World Conservation, a not-for-profit organization, is entreating farmers to be deliberate about documenting trees planted on their farms for future financial benefits.

According to General Manager for KWC, Esi Banful, farmers are yet to take keen interest in documenting trees, which could possibly lead to loss of financial benefits from the trees.

She believes promotion of tree planting should be done alongside proper documentation of trees.

“The farmers are supposed to maintain records of their farms especially on trees they planted so it will help them in future to claim ownership of the trees. In Ghana, once trees are naturally occurring it belongs to the government but if it is planted by individuals, he assumes ownership,” he said.

She spoke to Myjoyonline.com on the sidelines of a sensitization workshop for farmers.

To restore deteriorating forest reserves, the national tree planting target for Ghana in 2025 was 30 million. As of October last year, more than 26 million seedlings had been planted.

Though the government and its agencies play active roles in tree planting, farmers have become pivotal in meeting the tree planting targets.

Research has revealed planting trees on farms boost productivity by protecting sensitive crops and stabilizing the soil.

General Manager for Knowledge for World Conservation, Esi Banful says though farmers are beginning to accept planting trees on their farms, documenting them for financial benefits is neglected.

“Trees help in nurturing coca farms and improving their yields. We are urging them to consider growing trees on their cocoa farms as well,” she added.

Meanwhile, illegal mining has become one of the major threats to the country’s forest reserves.

Executive Director for KWC, Gustav Adu says though some gains have been made in the fight against illegal mining, there is more to be done.

“There is some consciousness now, I see some focus from the government now. Government is picking some responsibility in that area,” he said.