The Determination of Mixing Ratios in Afforestation Assortments: Satisfying Farmers’ Needs for Multi-Purpose Forests

Abstract

A method is presented which determines the mixing ratio of tree species in afforestation assortments in such a way that the utility of afforested land is maximized with respect to the needs of rural populations. The approach is based on the assumption, that forest  land has to fulfill many functions in the daily life of rural populations and that for each function certain species are preferred. Combining the most important functions of forest land with frequencies of tree species used and preferred for those functions, that mixing ratio of trees is found, which satisfies the demands and needs of a specific rural population the most. The technique combines systematic group discussions with representative cross-section surveys. It is expected, that by considering several functions of forests, a higher contribution to the standard of living of target populations can be achieved, than when emphasizing one major function only. In addition, the participation of a target population in the planning process of an afforestation project may increase their responsibility for afforestation sites and thus help to ensure the sustainability of such projects. The approach is demonstrated by an example from Burkina Faso, showing that the local demand for firewood. timber, fodder, ingredients for food preparations etc. can be satisfied to a large extent already by six tree species.