ABSTRACT
Research results demonstrated that although forest resources offered substantial economic input to families, this was infrequently accounted for at the household level. For some families, the value of the forest for game, fruit and fibres is implicit; for others, free commodities from the forest are little valued. One household calculated that from one hectare, on average, they annually consumed the equivalent of approximately US$200 in fruit, fibre and game. In 1998, if they sold the logging rights of that hectare to a logger, they would receive a mere US$36. Recognition of the substantial input of natural resources to this family’s livelihood greatly assisted neighbours to better understand the value of their standing forests.
