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Assessing sustainability of community forestry through analysing field and remotely sensed indicators in the Nepal's Terai
| Publication Type | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication | 2003 |
| Authors | Mohan Poudel, |
| Journal Title | Banko Janakari |
| Volume | 13 |
| Pagination | 43-49 |
| ISBN Number | 1016-0582 |
| Key Words | community forestry; image analysis; indicators; remote sensing; satellite imagery; sustainability |
| Abstract | The present research assesses sustainability of CF in Siwalik range, Nepal. Criteria and indicators were used for the assessment. Two community forest users groups (CFUG): Majhau and Jiva were used as study sites. Designed sampling method was simple random sampling. PRA tools were used for socioeconomic data collection. Forest stand variables and other ecological indicators were measured for ecological data. Different statistical tests were used for the significance test of difference between the two CFUGs as well as significance changes overtime. Remote sensing data (satellite imageries) were also used and compared to establish the changes overtime. Related information from different data sources were triangulated to validate each other. Selected indicators were finally scored and assessed. Results show that Majhau was characterized by homogenous group with similar needs and interests of users; no problems with distant users; equity in benefit sharing; and high awareness found comparatively more sustainable socially. Jiva was found socially unsustainable. Trend in social and ecological condition since being handed over was also found significantly positive in Majhau but not in Jiva. However, forest and other ecological condition at present were not significantly different between the study sites at 90% confidence level. The social and ecological conditions of CF were found significantly related with each other. Comparing independently classified images, in overall, positive changes in forest condition were observed. No major differences were observed between the trends on satellite images and field indicators. |
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