Evaluation of the uses of Eucalyptus species in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria

The study was aimed at assessing uses of Eucalyptus species in Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria. Snowball sampling technique was employed to select places where Eucalyptus trees were planted in Makurdi. Consequently, five out of these locations were randomly chosen. Target population for this study includes locations where Eucalyptus species were planted, Timber Sheds and stakeholders of forestry in Makurdi. Sum of sixty copies of semi structured questionnaire and personal interview were used for data collection. Results of this present study showed that 72% of respondents were male while 28% were female. Three species of Eucalyptus such as Eucalyptus camaldulensis (75%), Eucalyptus globulus (15%) and Eucalyptus toreliana (10%) were identified in the study area. The results revealed that Eucalyptus species were mostly used for windbreak (28.40%) followed by firewood (26.70%), aesthetics purpose (21.70%), landscaping (16.70%), electric poles (6.70%) and 0% for timber and furniture, respectively. Leave and bark of Eucalyptus species were reported to be used for medicinal purposes with E. camaldulensis most utilized. It was also observed that the stakeholders of forestry in Makurdi had neither Eucalyptus nursery nor plantation. Based on the findings, it is recommended that forestry stakeholders and government should embark sensitization of timber users to initiate Eucalyptus plantation to supplement the ever increasing demand of wood and wood products in Makurdi. Also, timber dealers should explore the Eucalyptus species for timber purposes and business.