Journal Articles
When and Where to Actively Restore Ecosystems?BackgroundWhile conservation efforts around the world have focused on restoring degraded ecosystems to provide ecosystem services and benefit biodiversity, yet there has been an increasing recognition that certain ecosystems can rapidly recover without human intervention. This paper examines the question: what cases and to what extent should humans actively facilitate ecosystem recovery? Available with subscription or purchase |
Ecological Considerations for Using Dipterocarps for Restoration of Lowland Rainforest in Southeast AsiabackgroundIn this article, the authors present ecological factors that should be considered when engaging in dipterocarp forest restoration in Southeast Asia. Because many dipterocarps are insect-pollinated, have poor seed dispersal, have low density of reproductive adults, and have recalcitrant seeds, planting of nursery-reared tree seedlings could increase the ability of dipterocarp forests to regenerate. Open access copy available |
Amazonian Forest Restoration: An Innovative System for Native Species Selection Based on Phenological Data and Field Performance IndicesbackgroundIn this article, data is presented from 14 years of evaluating native species from primary forests in Para State, Brazil for their potential use as reforestation trees on a bauxite mine. Available with subscription or purchase |
Selecting seed trees for a forest restoration program: A case study using Spondias axillarisBackgroundFramework tree species are indigenous forest tree species, planted to complement and accelerate natural regeneration of forest ecosystems and encourage biodiversity recovery, on degraded sites. Spondias axillaris Roxb. (Anacardiaceae) is an exceptionally effective framework tree species for restoring seasonal tropical forest ecosystems to degraded sites throughout south and southeast Asia. This study identifies criteria for selection superior parent seed trees, based on nursery performance and field establishment, using Spondias axillaris as a case study. Available with subscription or purchase |
Restoration of former grazing lands in the highlands of Laos using direct seeding of four native tree species: Seedling establishment and growth performanceBackgroundDirect seeding has recently regained favor as a lower-cost alternative to planting seedlings for restoration of degraded or abandoned sites. This study reports the establishment and growth performance of 2 pioneer (Pinus kesiya and Schima wallichii) and 2 later-successional (Keteleeria everlyniana and Quercus serrata) native trees broadcasted or buried on former grazing lands in Laos. Open access copy available |
Can Native Tree Species Plantations in Panama Compete with Teak Plantations? An Economic EstimationbackgroundPanama has high rates of primary forest conversion, resulting in depleted timber resources. In response, the timber plantation industry is growing to meet demand, often with non-native species. This study compares the economic feasibility of using native tree species vs non-native species for plantation forestry. Open access copy available |
Farmer Participation in Reforestation Incentive Programs in Costa RicabackgroundThis article evaluates the participation of farm households in reforestation incentive programs in Costa Rica from 1988 to 1995. The Forestry Bond Certificate in Advance (CAFa) was started in 1988 as a grant of 100,000 colones per hectare (it increased to 120,000 colones per hectare) for reforestation to be disbursed over 5 years of plantation establishment. The Forestry Development Fund (FDF) was initiated in 1989 and offers 58,000 colones per hectare over 3 years for reforestation. Open access copy available |
Decentralized Payments for Environmental Services: The cases of Pimampiro and PROFAFOR in EcuadorbackgroundThis article describes two payment for environmental services (PES) programs in Ecuador which, unlike programs run in other countries, are run by decentralized organizations: Pimampiro municipal watershed-protection scheme and PROFAFOR carbon-sequestration programme. Research Goals & MethodsThe authors conduct interviews, community workshops, and collect socioeconomic data to evaluate the programs for additionality (adding to conservation), welfare or poverty alleviation, and the control of leakage. Available with subscription or purchase |
Paying for Environmental Services: An Analysis of Participation in Costa Rica's PSA ProgrambackgroundThis study evaluates demographic and other factors that played a role in the participation of households in Costa Rica's Payment for Environmental Services program. Research Goals & MethodsThe authors rely on economic analysis of technology adoption and farm and forestry program participation to assign variables and draw conclusions. Available with subscription or purchase |
Factors Limiting Tropical Rain Forest Regeneration in Abandoned Pasture: Seed Rain, Seed Germination, Microclimate, and SoilbackgroundThis research evaluates the ability of seeds to be dispersed into and germinate in areas of abandoned pasture. Research Goals & MethodsSeed rain, germination of tree seedlings, percent herbaceous and woody cover, soil moisture, phosphorous, air temperature, and other microclimate conditions were tested in plots located 250m and 25m from the forest edge as well as within the primary forest. Available with subscription or purchase |
