Drivers of Reforestation in Human-Dominated Forests

Authors:
Nagendra, H.

Publication Date:
2007

Abstract/Summary:
This article draws on a dataset of 55 forests from the middle hills and Terai plains of Nepal to examine the factors associated with forest clearing or regeneration. Results affirm the central importance of tenure regimes and local monitoring for forest regrowth. In addition, user group size per unit of forest area is an important, independent explanator of forest change. These variables also can be associated with specific practices that further influence forest change such as the management of social conflict, adoption of new technologies to reduce pressure on the forest, and involvement of users in forest maintenance activities. Such large-N, comparative studies are essential if we are to derive more complex, nuanced, yet actionable frameworks that help us to plan better policies for the management of natural resources.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
PNAS

Link:
http://www.pnas.org/content/104/39/15218.full.pdf