Community forest management in the Terai Region of Nepal: contribution to the local and national economy

This chapter examines some basic relationships between people and forest resources in a case study of the Dhuseri community forest in the Terai region of Nepal. The Dhuseri community forest was established in 1996 and is under the jurisdiction of Nawalparasi district. The case study analysed the relevant contributions of forest resources to improving local livelihoods. It focused on mainly three types of products (firewood, timber and fodder/grasses) that are commonly consumed by the people in the community forestry area. The study reveals that forests support both the national and local economy. The government collects forest revenues from the sale of forest products, which have a direct link to the national economy. The establishment of community forests contributes to improving forest management, community development and more productive land use. It stresses the importance of involving all local user groups in order to strengthen participatory forestry management practices and to ascertain new management options that are acceptable to all stakeholders.