Population and Forest Dynamics in the Hills of Nepal: Institutional Remedies by Rural Communities

Abstract

"Projections of massive declines in Himalayan forest cover and dire predictions for the future of forests in Nepal initiated worldwide concern in the 1970s. Initially, the source of the problem was seen as domestic fuelwood use compounded by rapid population growth. Then expansion of agriculture, commercial logging, and tourism were blamed. However, the actual rates of deforestation, as well as its causes and consequences, remain very much in question. Studies indicate that while there is degradation from overharvesting in the hills, the total loss of forest cover has been relatively small. Others argue that losses have even been reversed in both forest area and tree density. Still others contend that while forest area is not decreasing in the hills, the quality of existing forests is suspect."