Gender participation in tree germplasm flow

Abstract

G etting good quality and quantity tree planting material is one of the challenges limiting successful incorporation of trees into smallholder farming (Graudal and Lillesø 2007). This affects the quantity and quality of the tree products from smallholders thus reducing economic returns and other benefits. Appropriate intervention in tree germplasm delivery systems is therefore essential (Graudal and Lillesø 2007; Lillesø et al. 2011). Because such an intervention is location-specific, it is important to understand the existing tree germplasm flow and the various players involved. The tree germplasm flow method can be used to identify gender segregation or gendered networks of germplasm circulation among stakeholders in a community. It helps participants get a better understanding of the interactions among stakeholders of agroforestry germplasm and identify key partners for future programs. A seed flow analysis approach described by De Boef and Thijssen (2007) was used to establish crop seed flow at Jihligaon village, Koraput district, during a regional training on plant genetic resources and seeds in India in 2012