The forests and woodlands were added to the Department of Agriculture, which was managed by the hired official. However, the Department of Lands was attached to the Judicial Department under the supervision of the Judicial Secretary, assisted by an Assistant Director for the Lands Department. 8 - Forests and Woodlands The area of government protected forests increased with the establishment of a reserve for fuel demand in the vicinity of El Obeid. Measures taken to protect forests from fires were successful, especially in Sennar and Kordofan, where funds were allocated for the protection of gum forests. Furthermore, the amount of firewood taken from the limited forests in past years necessitated placing what remained in these forests under organized management.

It is evident from reports on the indigenous mastic trees in Bahr el Ghazal that they are abundant and reproduce in a satisfactory manner, as they are not affected by fires. The mastic trees planted in Wau and in Kajo-Keji in the region are growing well. As for the three fields mentioned in last year's report, they did not yield. The revenues of this department have increased satisfactorily, most of which is from gum.

9 - Trade and Customs The general improvement in livelihoods continued in 1911. The total exports and imports increased, from £E 1,983,000 in 1909 to £E 3,325,800 in 1910. The increase in exports alone was 40 percent. The improvement of transportation routes within Sudan has brought it closer to European grain markets, such as the cattle market. The upgrading of shipping facilities in Port Sudan has led to a reduction in sea freight charges to Europe. One of the encouraging developments is that Egyptian farmers have begun to migrate to the Dongola province, where basin irrigation is practiced. Their agricultural expertise will be a means to improve farming methods in that province.

This year, Sudan has succeeded in discovering two new crops of commercial value. One is a type of seed called "Sattat," from which oil is extracted. It grows like weeds in local cattle farms and other areas, and its oil resembles sesame oil. The other is "Dom nuts," which have become available through the repair of machinery.