Evaluation of a Participatory Resource Monitoring System for Nontimber Forest Products: the Case of Amla (Phyllanthus spp.) Fruit Harvest by Soligas in South India

摘要: Enhancing incomes from the sustainable harvest of nontimber forest products can help to maintain local livelihoods and provide communities with economic incentives conserve biodiversity. A key feature a successful enterprise approach conservation these is sound monitoring evaluation program that involves all concerned stakeholders leads adaptive management. However, few studies have presented any approaches, successes, or challenges involved in participatory initiatives for products. We present our experiences using research model we developed used over 10-yr (1995–2005) period wild harvesting Phyllanthus spp. fruits (amla) by indigenous Soliga harvesters Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, South India. describe establishment evolution resource activities, compare some results activities those obtained standard ecological evaluate successes associated model. An initial step this work was Soliga-run enterprises processing value addition amla other Participatory consisted mapping assessments fruit production, regeneration combined pre- postharvesting meetings sharing information, Over years, rejected, changed, adapted various methods select most appropriate them. Visual estimates production made at level were very similar scientific protocols. techniques effective included strategies mapping, productivity estimation, promotion improved techniques. Major ensuring adequate lead benefits only longer term, such as extraction rates. Maintaining long-term participation interest latter requires tenure.