ABSTRACT
As could be expected from such a complex and multi-faceted subject, greater knowledge does not necessarily lead to more clearcut prescriptions. Some of the earlier assumptions have been shown to be unsound or incomplete, but the old theories cannot be replaced by equally simple new orthodoxies. As the variety and complexity of the array of different roles trees play in rural household livelihood strategies becomes clearer, it is evident that there are few answers of general application. Nevertheless, a number of issues of wide application can be identified.
