permaculture

Workshop Module 8: Forests, Tree Crops, and Bamboo 225

Creative thinking : Forest management plan

Method : Group participatory brainstorm

Tools : Large paper, markers

References : PC Book MOD 8 - Forests, Tree Crops, and Bamboo

Objective : Participants create community forest management plans

Step 1

Have the participants brainstorm an imaginary community forest, including:

• The size of the forest.


• The topography of the land.


• The main types of trees and plants (5-10 types, more can be added later).


• The location of rivers or springs.


• Animals on the land.


• How much of the land is (a) thick forest, (b) thin forest, or (c) cleared.

While the brainstorm is happening, the facilitator or one of the participants can list the
results on the black/white board or a large piece of paper that everyone can see.

Step 2

Then ask the participants to divide into smaller workgroups and brainstorm a community
management plan for the community forest. Following are some key points that should
be covered by the participants’ plans. The facilitator can use it as a checklist to prompt
the participants if needed.

• Plan for the future.


• Plant productive native trees.


• Define what can be harvested, from where, when, and who can harvest it.


• Who can generate income and what income is used for forest management.


• If animals can graze, and if so, what types of animals and where.


• Do not allow any major clearing of land.


• Do not give ownership or rights to companies.


• Sustainable local businesses that can use resources wisely. E.g. seeds,
  medicines, furniture, oils, bamboo products, nuts, honey, etc.


• Traditional ceremonies for protection of sacred land and forests.


• Using traditional governance systems to manage the resources.


• Schools, local groups, religious leaders, government agriculture workers, and
  community radio involved in educations activities.


• Protection from animals, fire, wind, and erosion (especially for rivers and springs).


• Involvement of local government and other groups.

Step 3

Once each workgroup has completed their community management plan, they can

present the plan to the entire group for feedback and other suggestions.

EXERCISE

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