Yes, Haiti needs trees

Yes, Haiti needs trees

Andres Oppenheimer’s arti- cle of Jan. 14 concerning Haiti needing more trees is definitely true. Even before the devastating earthquake there have been many groups, government and non-governmental, instrumental in trying to help with reforestation projects throughout the country.

Yes, 98 percent of Haiti has been deforested because the Haitians need firewood and they see those trees as fuel. Trying to alleviate the problem they are encouraging the planting of fruit trees and trying to educate the people that trees can be used for food a few years and then for fuel. It is hoped they will understand the benefits of having an orchard which will in turn supply them with food, a cash crop and in the future for firewood.

I highly recommend supporting Heifer International as they have a reforestation program in place. They try to educate through their training programs and distribute seeds and saplings. They also train for grafting, composting and impress on them the importance of soil conservation. Agriculture growth is possible to succeed and the key to helping feed this nation, but the need for cooperation between the charitable and governmental agencies with the political leaders are key components to help with the many problems within the country.

Pearle Burlingame, North Lima