Munesh Kumar | Forestry | Best Paper Award

Prof. Munesh Kumar | Forestry | Best Paper Award

Prof. Munesh Kumar, HNB Garhwal University, India

Prof. Munesh Kumar is a professor and researcher at HNB Garhwal University specializing in Forest Ecology. With a PhD in Forestry and over 20 years of academic and research experience, his work focuses on forest conservation, carbon sequestration, and sustainable land management. He has authored several books, led impactful research projects, and received numerous awards for his contributions to environmental sustainability. Prof. Kumar continues to lead cutting-edge research in forest ecosystems, contributing to both scientific knowledge and community resilience in the face of climate change.

Publication profile:

Scopus Profile

Education:

Prof. Munesh Kumar is a distinguished academic in forestry with a PhD in Forest Ecology from HNB Garhwal University (2003). He completed his MSc in Forestry, specializing in Agroforestry, from the same institution in 1995. His academic journey has been marked by a strong focus on the ecological and environmental sciences, particularly in forest biodiversity and carbon sequestration.

🔬 Research Interests:

Prof. Kumar’s research expertise lies in Forest Ecology, Agroforestry, Carbon Sequestration, and the Restoration of Degraded Lands. He has led several research projects, including studies on carbon stock estimation in Garhwal Himalaya’s forests and the socio-economic impacts of forest provisioning services. His work also extends to the mitigation of climate risk through agroforestry and community-based forest governance. Prof. Kumar has published numerous books and research papers, with key contributions to understanding the dynamics of forest ecosystems in the Himalayas and beyond.

Professional Experience: 

Prof. Munesh Kumar is currently a Professor in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at HNB Garhwal University (a Central University), where he has been serving since June 2022. His tenure in academia spans more than two decades, with a focus on both research and teaching. Prior to his current position, he held various academic roles at HNB Garhwal University, steadily progressing from Lecturer to Professor. Over the years, Prof. Kumar has mentored numerous PhD candidates, guided innovative research projects, and collaborated with national and international experts. His work has garnered multiple honors, including the World Sustainable Agriculture Development Award and Outstanding Scientist Award for his contributions to Forest Ecology and Biodiversity.

Top Notable Publication: 

Pandey, R., Rawat, M., Singh, R., Cui, L., & Li, T. (2024). Plant trait approach to assess the vulnerability of Rhododendron arboreum in western Himalayas. Environmental and Sustainability Indicators, 23, 100415.
Citations: 0

Singh, N., Riyal, M.K., Singh, B., Pinto, M.M.S.C., & Kumar, M. (2024). Carbon sequestration potential of agroforestry versus adjoining forests at different altitudes in the Garhwal Himalayas. Atmosphere, 15(3), 313.
Citations: 0

Pradhan, P., Sukumaran, A., Khanduri, V.P., Kumar, M., & Pinto, M.M.S.C. (2024). Effect of crown layers on reproductive effort and success in andromonoecious Aesculus indica (Wall. ex Camb.) Hook (Sapindaceae) in a temperate forest of Garhwal Himalaya. Plants, 13(2), 183.
Citations: 0

Mlambo, D. & Kumar, M. (2024). Imprint of selective logging on seed regeneration of Brachystegia spiciformis Benth. in dry miombo woodland in Zimbabwe. South African Journal of Botany, 164, 180–187.
Citations: 0

Singh, G., Chauhan, V., Thakur, C.L., Kishore, K., & Kumar, M. (2023). Studies on natural regeneration, floristic composition, biomass, carbon density, and soil properties along an altitudinal gradient in the north-western Himalayas, India. Forest Ecology and Management, 548, 121391.
Citations: 1

Yadav, S., Pandey, V.C., Kumar, M., & Singh, L. (2023). Corrigendum to “Plant diversity and ecological potential of naturally colonizing vegetation for ecorestoration of fly ash disposal area” [Ecological Engineering 176 (2022) 106533]. Ecological Engineering, 194, 107033.
Citations: 0

Yadav, N., Khanduri, V.P., Singh, B., Ahmad, T., & Kumar, M. (2023). Effect of temperature, seed size, sowing depth, and position on seed germination and seedling growth of Bauhinia retusa Roxb. and Bauhinia variegata L. Forests, 14(8), 1664.
Citations: 3

Sharma, A., Sharma, J.C., Shukla, Y.R., Kumar, M., & Kumar, A. (2023). Nutrient management influences root characteristics and nitrogen use efficiency in the vegetable-based agroecosystem in the northwestern Himalayas. Sustainability (Switzerland), 15(13), 10593.
Citations: 3

Sharma, H., Pant, K.S., Bishist, R., Kumar, M., & Kumar, A. (2023). Estimation of biomass and carbon storage potential in agroforestry systems of northwestern Himalayas, India. Catena, 225, 107009.
Citations: 13

Pandey, R., Bargali, S.S., Bargali, K., Kumar, M., & Sahoo, U.K. (2023). Fine root dynamics and associated nutrient flux in Sal dominated forest ecosystems of Central Himalaya, India. Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 5, 1064502.
Citations: 12

Conclusion

Prof. Munesh Kumar’s rich academic background, extensive research contributions, multiple awards, and active role in global forestry research make him a standout candidate for the Research for Best Paper Award. His work not only advances the field of forest ecology but also fosters sustainable practices that benefit both local communities and the environment on a global scale. His dedication to these areas aligns perfectly with the award’s criteria, showcasing his excellence in forestry research.

 

 

Mezgebu Duguma | Forestry | Best Researcher Award

Mr Mezgebu Duguma |  Forestry  |  Best Researcher Award

Researcher at  Oromia Agricultural Research Institute, Ethiopia

Mezgebu Senbeto Duguma was born on May 24, 1988, in Ethiopia. An accomplished researcher in the field of forestry and agroforestry, Mezgebu has made significant contributions to agricultural research and ecosystem management. He currently holds the position of Researcher-I at the Bako Agricultural Research Center, under the Oromia Agricultural Research Institute in Ethiopia.

 

Profile:

📚 Education and Training:

MSc in Forest and Nature Management from Jimma University, Ethiopia (20/10/2015 – 02/10/2017) BSc in Farm Forestry from Hawassa University, Ethiopia (31/10/2007 – 04/07/2010) Various certificates in areas such as regenerative entrepreneurship, agronomy data management, remote sensing, ecosystem services, biodiversity finance, and more from institutions in Costa Rica, Nigeria, and Ethiopia.

🌱 Professional Experience:

RESEARCHER-I at Bako Agricultural Research Center, Oromia Agricultural Research Institute (08/07/2022 – Current) ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER at the same center (30/06/2019 – 06/07/2022) CASE TEAM LEADER OF AGROFORESTRY RESEARCH and Researcher (06/11/2017 – 07/07/2022) CONSULTANT for the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) on projects related to deforestation alerts and ecosystem services (2019, 2020) GUEST LECTURER at Wollega University (04/12/2017 – 27/03/2018) RESEARCH FELLOW at the Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, Germany (01/09/2016 – 27/02/2017) FOREST EXPERT at Oromia Forest and Wildlife Enterprise, Arsi Branch (30/09/2010 – 29/05/2011)

🌿 Skills and Memberships:

Languages: Afan Oromo (Oromiffa), Amharic, English (B2/C2 proficiency) Digital Skills: Microsoft Office, Google Drive, internet user, WhatsApp, YouTube Memberships: Ethiopian Forestry Society, Ethiopian Soil Science Society, African Forest Forum, Food and Agriculture Organization, UNEP-IPBES, IUCN-CEM, UNCCD, PAEPARD

🏆 Achievements and Responsibilities:

Chairperson and Secretary roles in various committees at Bako Agricultural Research Center. Led teams of researchers and workers, demonstrating strong leadership and organizational skills. Actively contributed to community services and social committees. Mezgebu Senbeto Duguma is a dedicated and skilled researcher with a strong background in forestry and agroforestry. His contributions to agricultural research, combined with his commitment to community service and leadership, make him a valuable asset to his field and community. 🌟

🌲 Forestry Research Focus:

Mezgebu Senbeto Duguma is a distinguished researcher with a profound focus on forestry, agroforestry, and natural resource management. His work predominantly centers on the following key areas: Agroforestry Systems: Role: Case Team Leader of Agroforestry Research at Bako Agricultural Research Center. Focus: Development and optimization of agroforestry systems to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. Emphasis on integrating trees and shrubs into farming systems to improve soil fertility, conserve water, and increase biodiversity. Ecosystem Services: Projects: Conducted research on local community preferences for ecosystem services in the Yayo Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve. Objective: Assessing and valuing ecosystem services provided by forested landscapes to promote conservation and sustainable use. Deforestation Monitoring: Consultancy: Worked with the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) on the validation of deforestation alerts detected by Terra-I in Southwest Ethiopia. Tools: Utilized remote sensing technologies and mobile applications like KoboCollect for data collection and validation of forest cover changes. Forest Management and Restoration: Training: Participated in numerous training programs related to the restoration of degraded lands, silviculture, and forest management. Goals: Implementing strategies for the rehabilitation of degraded forest areas, promoting biodiversity, and ensuring sustainable forest management practices. Climate Change and Biodiversity: Research Fellowship: At the Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, Germany, focused on climate change impacts on forest ecosystems and biodiversity conservation. Studies: Investigated farming systems and agrobiodiversity trends in biosphere reserves, emphasizing the importance of maintaining ecosystem health in the face of climate change. Community Engagement and Education: Roles: Actively involved in community services, such as chairing and participating in various committees at Bako Agricultural Research Center. Impact: Enhancing community awareness and involvement in forest conservation efforts and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Data Analysis and Management: Skills: Proficient in data analysis using R-software and other digital tools, which supports his research in forestry and agroforestry. Application: Analyzing complex datasets to derive meaningful insights for policy and practice in forestry management. Mezgebu Senbeto Duguma’s comprehensive research and active involvement in forestry and agroforestry underscore his commitment to sustainable environmental management and the advancement of scientific knowledge in these critical fields. His efforts contribute significantly to the conservation and sustainable utilization of forest resources in Ethiopia and beyond. 🌿

Publication Top Notes:

  • Review on Role of Home Garden Agroforestry Practices to Improve Livelihood of Small Scale Farmers and Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
    ST Gifawesen, FK Tola, MS Duguma
    J Plant Sci 8 (5), 134-145, 2020
  • Agricultural Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services of Major Farming Systems: A Case Study in Yayo Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve, Southwestern Ethiopia
    MS Duguma, DH Feyssa, L Biber-Freudenberger
    Agriculture 9 (3), 48, 2019
  • Evaluation of Two Moringa Species for Adaptability and Growth Performance under Bako Conditions
    MD Dawit Samuel*, Regassa Terefe, Mezgebu Senbeto
    Journal of Natural Sciences Research 6 (9), 7, 2016
  • Adaptation and Growth Performance of Different Lowland Bamboo Species in Bako, West Shoa, Ethiopia
    MD Regassa Terefe*, Dawit Samuel, Mezgebu Sanbato
    Journal of Natural Sciences Research 6 (9), 5, 2016
  • Effect of Different Propagation Methods on Three Lowland Bamboo Species, at Bako Agro-ecology, West Shoa, Oromia, Ethiopia
    DS Regassa Terefe*, Mezgebu Senbeto, Lemma Lalisa
    Journal of Agricultural Science and Review 7 (5), 40-46, 2019
  • Potential of Tephrosia candida for Restoration of Degraded Lands and Fuel Wood Production in Western Ethiopia
    MS Duguma, RT Urga
    2023
  • Evaluation of Women’s Contribution in Agroforestry Demonstration through Moringa Species Introduction in Western Oromia, Ethiopia
    MS Duguma, FK Tola, DS Teshome
    Journal of Botanical Research 5 (1), 22-29, 2023
  • Shifts in Farming Systems on Land-Use Land-Cover and Biosphere Reserve Management in Southwestern Ethiopia
    MS Duguma
    International Journal of Science and Research Archive 9 (2), 211-221, 2023
  • Causes and Socio-Ecological Impacts of Rural Resettlement in Ethiopia (Review Article)
    MS Duguma
    International Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences 5 (June), 41-55, 2021