Maize and rice are the country's main staple
foods.....MORE
FORESTS
EAST TIMOR has a total forest area of 1.4 m ha.....MORE
Forestry
Source: Adapted from "The National Forestry Programme and Policy
Statement" and "Forest conservation and fauna protection
in East Timor" by Mario Nunes
EAST TIMOR has a total forest area of 1.4 m ha, with an estimated
350,000 ha of this under threat from degradation. Agroforestry is
regarded as a good alternative to traditional slash and burn cultivation
in the uplands, as farmers are able to produce forest trees and
fruit trees as well as cash crops and livestock.
Around the coast, mangrove areas are common and these have been
exploited for fuel wood and other products. Mangroves are an important
coastal habitat and hence a priority for rehabilitation.
Until relatively recent times, the communities
of East Timor had managed their watersheds in a manner that
allowed for both the sustenance of the local people and production
of diverse and highly-prized trading commodities. Recent history
has seen the widespread despoliation of ecosystems and the unsustainable
harvest and export of much of the country's natural resources
- including sandalwood, teak, ebony, redwood, and rare and endangered
birds and turtles.
Deforestation has resulted
in landslides, decreased soil fertility, decreased water quality,
sedimentation of estuaries and reefs. Reforestation of watersheds
will bring improved water quality and regulation of water flow.
Responsible planting and management can halt current erosion and
gradually rebuild the soils. Healthy environments with a balanced
nature are essential for healthy communities.
Management of East Timor's forest resources has substantial potential
for the creation of sustainable local employment opportunities.
This is particularly true in regard to coffee and related agroforestry
products.
Many development agencies are today producing thousands
of small trees to be planted, but the balance is still negative.
The most effective way for long-term management of
the forest resources and forest lands in East Timor is to empower
local communities to sustainably manage their natural resources.
Now that the emergency phase is over, local communities need support,
advice and capacity building in planning for the future management
of their natural resources in the medium to long term. Ensuring
that communities feel they own the planning and management of their
natural resources and are given the tools and confidence to do so
is important for Timor.
