The aim of the African Blackwood Conservation Project (ABCP) is to help replenish this valuable tree in Tanzania. Most people will not have knowingly seen blackwood but almost everyone will have heard of it, for it is the premier wood of choice for fine concert-quality woodwind instruments such as clarinets, oboes and flutes, as well as being used in the manufacture of bagpipes.

Blackwood is also the finest material available today for producing ornamental turning. In its African homeland, it is used to make intricate and highly detailed carvings, and plays a vital role in the ecology of the East African savannah. Despite its importance as a world timber, there have been few conservation efforts to replenish the species. Although it is not yet on the endangered list, the ABCP is taking efforts now to help assure that eventuality will not occur.

You can learn more about the wood, its homeland, this project, the people who are trying to make it happen and how you can help by going to their website. or you can email James Harris at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it