Mycorrhizal and Biochar-Based Reforestation - Field Update Q3 2025

During the third quarter of 2025, KENVO made steady progress across key project phases in Kereita Forest. From July through August, the team focused on site preparation and biochar production to enhance soil health and support future planting. In September, they applied mycorrhizal inoculum, completed sapling planting, and conducted baseline measurements to establish reference data for ongoing monitoring.

Early results

The team's first observations are encouraging. Biochar application has improved soil structure and moisture retention, while the inoculum appears to be supporting strong root development and early establishment. Baseline assessments revealed variation in soil conditions across plots, providing valuable insights for evaluating intervention effectiveness. Sapling survival rates are healthy, and clearer trends are expected as monitoring continues.

Challenges

The team also addressed several on-the-ground challenges. Limited site access made transporting materials and saplings difficult, but collaboration with the local community helped identify alternative routes and solutions. Rapid weed growth posed additional ecological challenges, managed through regular manual weeding and mulching to suppress regrowth and conserve moisture. These experiences underscored the importance of adaptability and community engagement in ensuring project success.

Future Focus

In the coming quarter, efforts will focus on supporting sapling establishment during the anticipated November–December rains, which are expected to significantly boost survival and early growth. Preparations are also underway for the first round of monitoring and data collection in December 2025, which will provide the initial insights into sapling performance under different interventions.