(Weizmann Institute/EurekAlert) A group of scientists headed by Prof. Dan Yakir of the Weizmann Institute's Environmental Sciences and Energy Department found that the Yatir forest, planted at the edge of the Negev Desert 35 years ago, is expanding at an unexpected rate. Forests in dry regions are considered to develop very slowly, if at all. However, the Yatir forest is growing at a relatively quick pace, and is even expanding further into the desert. The scientists hope their study will help identify new arable lands and counter desertification trends in vulnerable regions.
2003-05-08 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive