By Amy M Baty-Herbert | Project Coordinator
Dear project supporters,
Thank you for your support in our ongoing efforts to reverse deforestation in Freetown, Sierra Leone. It is currently the dry season in Freetown so the next set of seedlings will not be planted until mid-May. We have targeted areas that can be seen in the photos below.
Freetown receives 80 to 120 inches a year. Because of deforestation in the surrounding hills, there are no longer adequate trees to prevent soil erosion and to absorb the huge rainfall. Consequently, Freetown is increasingly prone to flooding from the rain runoff from the hills. Coupled with overcrowding and indiscriminate house construction, tens of thousands are exposed to the fury of nature. On Aug 14, 2017, torrential flooding and landslides resulted in the largest single-day disaster in the history of Sierra Leone. This storm destroyed thousands of homes, caused extensive flooding, and killed hundreds of people. Our goal is to prevent this devastation from happening again by continuing to plant trees as a way of combating deforestation, erosions, and mudslides and also to preserve the environment.
Due to the extent of the problem, this is a long-term endeavor with no quick fix. Your on-going support is much appreciated as we continue to follow the steps recommended by the local Environmental Protection Agency to reverse the deforestation and better protect Sierra Leone in the future. Together we can help ensure a safer future for the next generation.
With great appreciation,
The Develop Africa Team
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