The Shivalik Hills ecosystem extends from Nepal to Pakistan at the base of the Himalayas, and is a highly erosion prone area, in need of protective measures. This paper is presented in 3 parts: (1) Early experiences with hill resource societies as joint forest managers (Dhar; 11 ref.) - an overview of progress in restoring a degraded ecosystem and establishment of joint forest management procedures; (2) Expanding department capacity to work with forest communities (Gupta); and (3) Working with village groups (Madhu Sarin) - an account including 2 case studies, one of a single village community, and the second of a beat of 4 villages of different social groups.