Between Cash and Usufruct Rights: In Search of an Appropriate Policy Instrument for Sustained Local People's Participation

Background

This study examines a reforestation program that was launched in the Philippines funded by the Asian Development Bank in 1988. Contract restoration and incentive mechanisms were introduced to include the participation of civic and local community groups in reforestation. 

Conclusions & Takeaways

Securing land tenure can increase participants’ motivation for continued engagement in restoration programs. Paid labor is not sufficient for ensuring quality participation in contract reforestation schemes. Additionally, contract restoration participants should be allowed to select which trees they would like to plant and what function they will serve (e.g. fruit, fuelwood, fodder, watershed services) in order to give them a feeling of ownership and improve their morale for the project. Overall, locals' needs should be considered in the project design.