Conflicts Between Policy and Local People in Valuing Non-timber Forest Products: Perspectives from Nepal

Abstract

The paper presents an historical account of policy in Nepal regarding non-timber forest product management, and then analyzes the policy in terms of national and local perspectives on the values of these products. It is demonstrated that the conflict between policy-makers and local people has resulted in degradation of forest resources, particularly non-timber forest products. Based upon casestudies, it is shown that although the valuation gap is narrowing with the implementation of participatory forestry, local perspectives have not been adequately accommodated by state policies. Finally, it is suggested that policy guidelines be based upon local perspectives in order to realize the potential contribution of non-timber forest products to sustainable forest management and thenational economy.