Mapping and Change Detection Study of Frankincense Tree (Boswellia sacra) Using GIS Database and Remote Sensing Techniques in Huluf, Wadi Sahnut and Wadi Dawkah, in Dhofar, Oman

The frankincense is medicinal and aromatic resin found in the form of natural gum. In historic time it worth more than gold but still it have high economic, cultural and ecological value. The Olibanum( natural gum) is obtained from frankincense trees which are found in very limited geographical areas around the globe. There are only few countries in Middle East and East Africa were frankincense tree found. Dhofar governorate in Oman is among few of those places where frankincense tree propagates in Oman and Omani frankincense is considered best in quality in the world. Unfortunately the Frankincense tree got deforested in the Dhofar in last one decade probably due to climate change, anthropogenic factor such as over exploitation of plant for tapping frankincense gum, urbanization, local population occupational interest change, grazing by of animals, etc. as reported by various scholars and travelers. There is a need to perform scientific study for conservation of frankincense tree which is valuable natural asset and cultural heritage for Oman. In the present project we propose pilot study to map the changes happen in last 15 years for comparative study and to measure the actual deforestation occurred in more than one decade. We will also develop the Geographical information database for the frankincense trees present in the study area which include morphological study , tree varieties and plant conditions into the database which provide baseline for any future study and for monitoring tree population. Census will be made for the trees which will be recorded electronically in form of report and maps. The present proposed study will be carried out using modern tools and techniques based on geospatial earth observation data products, aerial photos, state of art electromagnetic wavelength measurement tool and with the use of remote sensing and GIS method and technology. After the completion of this project we will know accurately about how much deforestation occur and exactly where it occurred. We will also know the present tree health conditions which is of high importance and need in order to conserve the valuable country natural asset. This study can also be the a stepping stone for developing the model to find the suitable location for frankincense tree reforestation and afforestation.