The present study was conducted in two forests in Abha (Capital of Asir Region) and two forests in
Al Namas (130 km north of Abha), south western Saudi Arabia (Asir region) to investigate the effect of terraces on
rainwater harvesting and growth of
Juniperus procera
Hochst. ex Endlicher. Farmers grow their crops within Juniper
forests and woodlots by constructing terraces from soil and stones to harvest rainwater. Juniper forests and woodlots
present important watersheds and sources for water. Study plots were established in four forests, two of which
contained maintained terraces and the other two have been covered by abandoned and damaged terraces. The results
showed that maintained terraces served as important means for rainwater harvesting, whereas abandoning of terraces
resulted in increased soil loss, surface runoff, bulk density and reduced infiltration rates. Significant correlations and
regression between soil loss, total runoff, soil bulk density and infiltration rate were provided. Diameter at breast
height, total height, basal area, volume, number of trees, crown coverage and regeneration/ha of
J. procera were
significantly (P < 0.0001) higher in forests with maintained terraces compared with abandoned terraces. Finally,
maintained terraces improved rainwater harvesting and growth performance of
J. procera.
