The dynamics and sustainable use of high-value tree species of the coastal Pondoland forests of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

Abstract

We investigate the ecological status of the standing crop of high-value tree species in coastal scarp forest of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. We compare resource availability, distribution and use in several forests that are under state and community management. Species suitable for harvesting were identified using a simple linear-programming model based on the frequency and scale of regeneration (grain) of the tree species. Twenty high-value tree species were widely used. Nine species were apparently over-exploited and absent from community forests. Tree densities were higher in state forests than community forest. Size-class distribution profiles for all species, except Harpephyllum caffrum and Heywoodia lucens, displayed the characteristic inverse J-shaped distribution that generally indicates stable populations. Tree species varied in their spatial scale of recruitment, but were mostly intermediate- to coarse-grained. Two fine-grained species in state forest ( Englerophytum natalense and Millettia grandis) and only one species in community forest ( E. natalense) had densities that could potentially sustain current levels of exploitation. The prevailing tenurial system (i.e. state or community forest), the tree species and category of stem size (dbh) used, all affected tree harvesting off-take levels. Trees in the 10–20 cm diameter size-class (poles) were most harvested. Harvesting levels of pole-sized stems were more influenced by tree size than species, were significantly greater in community than state forests, and could be explained by the closer proximity of households to community ( x ̄ =1.5 km) than state forests ( x ̄ =3.2 km). Given the willingness of communities distant from forests to plant multipurpose indigenous trees, there is the potential for strengthening community forestry, and thus rural development, via forestry interventions such as agroforestry. However, the survival of these forests depends on the establishment of suitable integrated community-based institutions and management practices.