The National Irrigation Administration-Quirino Irrigation Management Office (NIA-Quirino IMO) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) conducted a joint tree inventory at the site of the proposed Bikibik Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in Barangay Calaocan, Cabarroguis, Quirino.

The assessment is part of preparations for the project, including the securing of Protected Area Management Board clearance and completion of the Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan.

Technical personnel from the NIA Planning, Design and Survey Unit and Institutional Development Unit worked with DENR forest officers to identify, measure and document trees within the watershed area near the proposed upstream intake.

The inventory will provide environmental data for project planning and is intended to ensure that the proposed irrigation facility complies with environmental requirements before construction.

The Bikibik project is being planned to improve irrigation access for farmers in Quirino and support agricultural production in the province.

The agencies said the assessment also forms part of their coordination to address environmental and social considerations associated with the proposed infrastructure.