Review of research on multipurpose tree species in Pakistan
Review of research on multipurpose tree species in Pakistan
K. M. Siddiqui
ABSTRACT
The term multipurpose tree species with acronym of MPTS has been introduced in
forestry literature only recently, though, the history of use of such tree species is very old.
Almost all trees are multipurpose, some more so than the others. In the early fifties, the
emphasis was placed on multiple use of forests for timber, fuelwood, fodder, watershed
protection, water, grazing, recreation etc. Later, the idea of community forestry, social
forestry and farm forestry was put forward. This was due to realization on the part of
developed countries and the international donor agencies that social and economic
benefits of development of state forests are not reaching small farmers in developing
countries. Further, with increase in population, the pressure on natural forests was also
increasing and pace of development was not fast enough to reduce it. Side by side, due to
energy crisis, the demand for fuelwood was also increasing. This called for drastic changes
in the aid policy of the donor countries, which could ensure development at grass-root
level for individual farmers through development of his own resources. Since, trees
provide numerous benefits to the farmers, hence they should be provided assistance to
harness the increased benefits. This concept is now gaining ground with growing
realization that farming and forestry are inter linked, which were often considered to be
separate activities in the developing countries.
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December 1989
Vol. 39, Iss. 4
