Factors influencing smallholder commercial tree planting in Isabel Province, the Solomon Islands

Abstract

Small-scale forestry systems provide subsistence products and income generation for smallholders, and a range of environmental services. However, smallholders often face constraints to the adoption of small-scale forestry. In the Solomon Islands, family-based plantations of commercial timber species, in particular teak, have been promoted over the last 10 years. After initially high uptake, rates of new plantings have slowed, and management of existing plantations is perceived to limit timber quality. This study assesses the factors that influence household adoption of small-scale forestry through a case study of Isabel Province, the Solomon Islands. These factors were investigated in five tree-planting villages using a mixed methods approach, in which a household survey of tree planters and non-tree planters was complemented with qualitative methods. Descriptive statistics, probit and multiple regression models, and qualitative analysis were used to generate results. The study finds that a market for existing planted timber resources, improved extension services and, in the longer-term, more livelihood-appropriate small-scale (agro)forestry systems are critical to facilitate the ongoing adoption and maintenance of small-scale plantations in Isabel Province of the Solomon Islands.