Selection of suitable areas for rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensi) plantation using GIS‐data in Laos

Abstract

The Lao government has a policy of promoting Laos to become a leading rubber exporter in the world market by the year 2020. However, the implementation showed serious problems in terms of land allocation. Land leased to investors overlapped with farmlands of local people, creating conflicts between local people and investors, as well as between local people and local government authorities. In addition, the concession of areas without previous forestry survey has led to massive deforestations. These problems demonstrated that the local government needs to plan for and implement good land use management strategies. The aim of this study is not only to identify suitable areas for rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) plantation (SARTP) but also areas for forest and agriculture to model sustainable land use management in local areas. The study area conducted in Pakxong District, southern part of Laos, which total area covers approximately 345,545 ha, with forest covering about 232,721 ha. The geography database such as land use type; forest types; digital elevation model (DEM) resolution with 50m and soil characteristic were used integrate geographic information system (GIS) technique. Multi‐Criteria Evaluation (MCE) and restriction for producing suitable maps based on geographic data was defined. These information combines with overlay tools and weight overlay processing identify a land and forest allocation map, which includes SARTP, as well as a forest functions and agriculture area map.