Sustaining economic and ecological contribution to local community through participatory agroforestry practice

Abstract

Forest and land rehabilitation involving local community remain the best alternative, and most effective practice for rehabilitation, especially those in relatively densely populated areas. One of the practices used is participatory agroforestry which has been practiced in Java, Sumatra and other islands in Indonesia. Several improved participatory agroforestry practices have been established using several locally adapted and economically valuable commodities in several sites in Java and Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia under the KANOPPI Project. Several commodities such as bamboo (Gigantochloa atter), smallholder teak (Tectona grandis), medical plant named ules (Helicteres isora) and rattan substitute for handicrafts locally known as rumput ketak (Lygodium circinnatum) have been planted using this practice and have been contributing to both local community livelihood and ecological aspect surrounding the trial sites from at least 9 trial sites established in Java and Nusa Tenggara islands. Trials and supporting activities under this project have contributed to the livelihood pathway as follows 1). Communities are likely to manage their resource sustainably, 2). Increasing benefits obtained from project activities and 3). New market opportunities and diversifying products that support local economy. Under the current second phase of the project, several activities will be extended and replicated to wider rehabilitation activities not only in Java and Nusa Tenggara but also to other islands in Indonesia in order to produce wider impact