Development and management of secondary broadleaf forests

Secondary forests are currently the most abundant forest resource in El Salvador and Central America. Generally, they are the product of the abandonment of agriculture and / or livestock, which suffered the farmers' farm during the internal armed conflict, generally located on land with low agricultural productivity and on slopes. Due to a lack of knowledge about its ecology and the possibilities for its management, and also due to some socio-cultural impediments, secondary forests have not been considered as part of the productive forest resource. Approximately half of the species present in secondary forests are estimated to be commercial. In addition, the basal area of ​​commercial species increases proportionally with age,reaching approximate values ​​of 20 square meters per hectare between 15 and 20 years old. On the contrary, the area decreases. At 16 years, between 60% and 80% of the basal area corresponds to commercial species. The results confirm that these forests have a high productive potential, since commercial species predominate, both in number of trees and in basal area.

potential-for-development-and-management-of-broad-leaved-secondary-forests-within-the-mag-paes-1 program

Most of the commercial species present belong to the ecological group of durable heliophiles. On the other hand, some of the species called partial scyophytes, are already present from an early age, and they increase in number of trees per hectare proportionally with age. These two ecological groups dominate the composition of the secondary forests studied and form the base resource for their management and future use. Since no silvicultural treatment is usually carried out in secondary schools, the increasing competition between trees produces a decrease in annual diametric growth. Naturally, non-commercial species during the first six years grow faster than commercial species,due to high exposure to light and extremely strong competition between trees.

The secondary forests of latifolia, two remnants in the farm systems, contribute a significant item to the rural economy, as a means of extracting firewood, roundwood for construction, sawn wood, fence posts, guardians, etc. Both for internal consumption and for sale. Most associated with gallery forests which are a fundamental part of the conservation of water producing sources. The pressure exerted on them is high, as the farmers do not have knowledge about the successional dynamics and the silvicultural treatments necessary for the sustainable management of secondary forests, these begin to decrease, some gradually, others aggressively subjected to a land use change.Efforts to manage such forests are low in Central American countries and El Salvador is no exception. Properly managed secondary forests are an alternative for conserving water-producing sources and contributing to the rural economy.

2.Objectives:

2.1. General objective:

• Establish a theoretical framework that allows homogenizing criteria on the management and conservation of secondary broadleaf forests, and their importance in the processes of protection of hydrographic basins, within the management scheme of comprehensive farm management.

2.2. Specific objectives:

• Conceptualize technical criteria on the importance of secondary broadleaf forests. Define the direct and indirect benefits of secondary broadleaf forests. Provide alternatives that allow the sustainable use of secondary forests in the medium and long term.

3. Theoretical Framework «The Secondary Forests»:

3.1. What are secondary forests:

They are conceptualized as land with woody vegetation of secondary successional character that develops once the original vegetation was eliminated by human activities or natural phenomena; with a minimized surface of 0.5 ha and a density of not less than 500 trees per ha of all species, with a diameter at chest height of not less than 5 centimeters. (MINAE Costa Rica, 1999)

In the case of El Salvador due to the abandonment of agricultural or livestock farming areas, caused by the armed conflict. This allowed the beginning of successive stages that resulted in the current secondary forests, it is important to emphasize that at present the idea of ​​the formation of new secondary forests through plant successions is discarded, on the contrary, the loss of Secondary forests that I know how to originate in the late 80's and 90's.

3.2. Sequential stages of secondary forests:

Succession is the process of natural revegetation of areas naturally disturbed or by anthropogenic actions (deforestation, forest fires, intensive and extensive extraction of wood for firewood, pole or sawmill and product of the armed conflict), which goes through different successive stages in search to find its balance by transforming over time into primary forests, which may be ecosystems similar to the original or form another new ecosystem, depending on variables such as seed dispersal, change in the physical and chemical composition of the soil, existing wildlife and human activities.

In the secondary forests found in El Salvador, specifically in the project's area of ​​influence, they can be characterized by the following process of forest succession:

1st successional phase (bush): According to the process of seed dispersal or the presence of trees isolated from the original forest in this area, it originates from the 4 years, maintaining a high dominance of pioneer shrub and tree species. This phase continues until the ninth or tenth year after the start of the successional process. During this phase, the necessary microclimatic conditions are gradually created for the massive installation of natural regeneration; greater areas of shade, increase in relative humidity and reduction of ambient temperature. Under these conditions, the pastures are progressively displaced from the site.

The vegetation is made up of a canopy approximately 5 m high, which extends more or less uniformly and dense and in which a large number of ephemeral and durable heliophytic forest species develop, in this phase they begin to form the so-called chaparrales with the presence of species such as Chaparro (Curatella americana); Hawthorn (Acacia farnesiana); Ixcanal (Acacia indsii); Deer foot (Bahunia ungulata); Seven skins (Piscidia carthagenensis); Madrecacao (Gliricida sepium), among others. (Melgar C. 2001)

2nd. Successional phase (early secondary forest): in this phase, which begins after one 10 to 15 years, for the first time a closed forest cover can be observed, which causes the definitive displacement of the grasses. For the first time, a forest-like formation is created, in which two strata can be clearly distinguished: a tree stratum and an undergrowth. The upper canopy reaches heights of approximately 12 m and is dominated by pioneer tree species. The understory is made up of shrub species and durable heliophytic species and newly established sciophyte species. Species diversity increases rapidly. Among the species, the Chaparro (Curatella americana) is still found in the arboreal and undergrowth, but species such as the Red Cedar (Cederla odoroata) begin to appear,Mountain Laurel (Cordia sp); Rubber (Elastic castile); Matapalo (Ficus spp); Cortés Blanco (Tabebuia donell-smithii); Jiote (Bursera simarruba). (Melgar C. 2001)

3rd successional phase (intermediate secondary forest): this phase begins more or less at 15 years old and I could stay until 35 years old. The most important factor in this rather prolonged phase is the reduction in the dominance of pioneer species (present in the 1st and 2nd phase), which are overcome by durable heliophytic species (eg Red Cedar) and by sciophytic species. Two tree strata can now be distinguished, with the upper canopy reaching heights of up to 15 meters. The species present may vary depending on the distance from trees or forest redoubts and the seed dispersal system. In this case, human intervention also influences that in this phase the species present in the forest begins to be used for lumber or / and post purposes. (Melgar C. 2001)

4th successional phase (late secondary forest): this phase begins at 30 or 35 years of age after leaving the grassland and it is difficult or impossible to define an upper limit, as its characteristics increasingly resemble those of a forest primary. The ephemeral (pioneer) heliophyte species mostly disappeared from the site, with many durable heliophyte individuals and some opportunistic trees searching for gaps in the dense canopy. Durable heliophyte species dominate (in terms of basal area) half of the secondary forest, while sciophyte species fight for the rest of the available space. Now the upper canopy can reach heights of up to 25 meters. (Melgar C. 2001)

3.3. Ecological groups of tree species found in secondary forests:

The tree species present in secondary forests can be divided into several groups according to their demand for light or tolerance to shade. Considering that in the first successive stages the pioneer species are tolerant to the surplus, while in the last stages of stabilization of the ecosystems there is a mixture of sun-tolerant species and shade-tolerant species. This division is important for the implementation of silvicultural treatments, especially to avoid mistakes, when selecting species for reforestation or enrichment systems.

These groups are:

1. Ephemeral heliophytes: Species called pioneers are found in the early successive stages, among some of the species are: Cecropia sp; Ochroma lagopus; Pachira aquatica: Trema micrantha; among other. Fast-growing durable heliophytes: Species that may be associated with ephemeral heliophytes or in later successive stages, many of which are from so-called precious woods, among the species are: Swietenia humilis; Cedrela odorata; Cordia sp; among other. Fast-growing durable heliophytes:Sun-tolerant species with relatively less growth in their initial and constant growth stages until reaching maturity, for example: Ceiba pentandra; Vochysia sp; Enterolobium sp; among other. Partial scyophytes: Shade- tolerant species that can withstand small light intensities, appear in the intermediate stages of the stabilization of the ecosystem, most of them are from the so-called tropical woods, for example: Astronium graveolens; Ferrule sp; Vitex gaumeri; Terminalia amazonia; among other. Total scyophytes:Species totally intolerant to the sun, exposure to very high light intensities reduces their growth leading to the death of the tree, these species are almost exclusive to the final stages of plant succession, during the final stabilization of the ecosystem, in secondary forests some Sometimes they do not appear if there are no nearby primary forests and elements that facilitate seed transport, among the species are: Guarea grandifolia; Podocarpus guatemalensis; among others. (Reuter, F. 1991)

3.4. Current use of secondary forests:

Most forest harvests already occur in secondary forests today. Frequently these forests are close to populations and serve local inhabitants to satisfy different needs. It is almost always a multiple forest and agricultural use, generally not regulated in the Salvadoran case. Firewood, roundwood and sawn lumber, posts, stakes and non-timber products are primarily used. An agricultural use of secondary forests also occurs, through forest fallow, grazing in the forest and cultivation of annual or perennial plants within the forest. The agricultural and forestry use serves mainly for self-consumption.Only in isolated cases the commercialization at a local and regional level of the products reaches larger dimensions (for example, obtaining charcoal). (TOB, 2000)

The most important current uses of secondary forest are:

The use of wood for energy purposes (firewood, charcoal), The use of ares of secondary forest as forest fallow in the framework of migratory agriculture, Obtaining non-timber forest products.

Unfortunately, the commercial extraction of wood in secondary forests is currently not legally important, although its use and commercialization illegally are part of the process of changing land use from forest fallow to agriculture or livestock. Firewood is the most important energy source in developing countries El Salvador is no exception. Most of the firewood today is obtained from the remnants of secondary forests. Generally dead wood is used or standing timber is cut. Secondary forests are also often an integral part of peasant production agricultural systems, where they are primarily used as forest fallow as a means of restoring soil fertility. (TOB, 2000)

Ecologically secondary forests are important for the high production of biomass (12-13 tons / year) that is transformed into organic matter in the soil and for the relatively high concentration of mineral elements that the roots take out of the soil and return them through the abundant litter production (Brown and Lugo, 1990). This explains the relatively rapid recovery of some tropical soils after being abandoned by agriculture, being used as forest fallow. (Reuter, F. 1991)

The forest fallow is developed through a natural succession of which I have already explained, in which human action does not intervene. In general, if the area is completely abandoned, it has a stable ecosystem between 35 and 50 years old. While the use of secondary forest as forest fallow does not exceed 8 years when the area is again used for agriculture. (Melgar, C. 2001).

Among the important harvesting functions of the secondary forest, apart from firewood collection, the use of wood and non-wood forest products -PNMB- stand out.

The PNMB, are for example; Food of animal and vegetable origin or medicinal plants, currently mostly come from secondary forests (Pérez, 1995). The PNMB are easily accessible and are generally close to the market, which facilitates their commercialization. (TOB, 2000)

In secondary forests, wood is also obtained for various uses (that is, wood harvested in a different way than energy production) for self-consumption (construction of houses, posts, guardians) or for commercialization (sawn wood, for veneers). or for the industry). Regarding the sustainable management of secondary forests, the experience is little but necessary to be implemented.

The agricultural exploitation of secondary forests includes fallow, grazing in the forest and the introduction of crops within the framework of agroforestry harvesting systems. These are limited to annual scyophyte crops, especially when the canopy is closed, and to perennial crops such as coffee or cocoa. The shade and the supply of nutrients due to the quality of the leaves can favor an increase in agricultural yield. (TOB, 2000)

The pastoral use of secondary forests is carried out especially in the dry forests of the Tropics and Subtropics. There are silvopastoral harvesting systems in which tree crops represent an important supply of forage and nutrients, increasing the potential for grazing in the forest. In the humid tropics, ranching is concentrated in mountain regions, where grazing in the forest offers an alternative source of income. (TOB, 2000)

Although generally no role has yet been assigned to them in land use planning, secondary forests fulfill various PROTECTIVE FUNCTIONS. Depending on the site, its extent and its characteristics, secondary forests are a habitat, refuge or corridor for animals and plants, reduce soil erosion and protect the water cycle. They serve as a carbon sink and as a buffer zone for protected areas. Furthermore, in some cases secondary forests play a role in tourism and recreation. (TOB, 2000).

4.Contributions of Secondary Forests to sustainable development:

Secondary forests can fulfill many functions that man benefits or could benefit. In order to estimate the potential for use of secondary forest, it is worth analyzing one by one the different functions that secondary forests perform according to their potential for use. It should be borne in mind that several of these functions and services are demanded simultaneously. Basically four groups of potential uses can be differentiated?

Forest use, which includes the production and processing of wood, firewood and non-wood forest products -PNMB-, including artisanal development in the environment of secondary forests;

Agricultural uses, which include the agroforestry use of secondary forest as forest fallow, the introduction of agricultural crops and grazing in the forest;

Protection potential, such as water, soil, climate and emissions protection, biodiversity conservation, carbon fixation and

Potential tourism and recreation. (TOB, 2000)

4.1. Evaluation criteria of the exploitation potential:

In order to analyze their importance for development policy, the possible functions of secondary forests must be considered from the point of view of their importance under certain conditions for a certain group of users.

• The local rural population (among others, farmers, landless peasants, pastoralists, local merchants and artisans); The regional and national population (among others: consumers, politicians, environmental groups, finishing industry) and The international community (among others: consumers, governments, experts and industry) (TOB, 2000)

There are often conflicts of interest between or within different user groups. Conflicts arise because of the interest that several have in the same utility that the forest provides or because of competition between different forms of use, an example is the case of the Cinquera Forest, in which the municipality of Cinquera has established ordinances and programs of environmental education in favor of the conservation of the remnant of secondary forest, finding a series of interest groups in favor and against the actions undertaken by the municipality. (Melgar, C. 2001)

Table No. 1.

«Predominant interests of the different interest groups in relation to the different functions they fulfill

secondary forests »

Role of the secondary forest	User groups
Local population	Regional and national population	Global community
Wood for processing - commercialization - subsistence	- +	+ -	+ -
Firewood - commercialization - subsistence	+/- +	+ -	- -
PNMB - commercialization - subsistence	+/- +	+/- -	+ -
Forest fallow	+	-	-
Grazing in the forest	+	-	-
Agriculture (introduction of crops)	+	-	-
Soil, climate, water and emission protection	+/-	+	-
Protection of the habitat of fauna and flora, conservation, improvement of biodiversity	+/-	-	+
Substitute for the use of the primary forest	-	-	+

SOURCE: TOB, 2000.

+: GREAT INTEREST

-: LITTLE INTEREST

4.1.2. Harnessing the potential:

Currently, within the area of ​​influence of the MAG-PAES project, the potential for use of secondary forest is underutilized, often being used only as part of the farm's protection or extractive of products, by-products and non-timber products, which gradually or aggressively gives origin of a change in land use. It is important to establish a framework that allows the sustainable use of secondary forests within the framework of integral farm management, especially in those areas in which they are closely linked to gallery forests and their respective water-producing sources. (TOB, 200)

4.2. Forest harvesting potentials:

A determining factor of the use potential of the condition or the state in which the forest resources and the respective tree species are found. This is evident if we consider the criteria "variety of supply" and "abundance of desired species". In general, it can be observed that when the supply variety is high, the abundance of the desired species is low, while on the contrary, the greater the abundance of individuals of a species (eminently in plantations), the variety of supply decreases. In the secondary forest, the variety of species is generally lower than in the primary forest and even less than in the reforestation, but higher than in the agroforestry systems. In the secondary forest,the physical and legal conditions for harvesting are generally more favorable than in primary forest, but less appropriate than in reforms and agroforestry systems. One of the relative advantages is that physical access is more facial than in the case of primary forests, due to its proximity to villages. While harvesting in primary forests is subject to increasingly severe legal restrictions, in secondary forests the right of ownership and use is often unclear. In reforestation and agroforestry use systems, there are generally explicit use rights, which, of course, are limited to a small group of users or a single owner.Production costs constitute a relevant criterion only in relation to profit and monetary yield. In secondary forests, these costs are lower than in the other two production systems, since they do not require any or very little silvicultural treatment and are better. Harvesting costs, consisting of harvesting and transportation, are more favorable in the secondary forest, due to its better infrastructure, compared to the primary forest. Reforestations, on the other hand, need considerable investments from the moment they are planted, which generally exceed the possibilities of local populations if they do not have an incentive program that promotes the reforestation process, as is the case of the successful programs developed in Chile, Costa Rica and Guatemala. (TOB, 2000: Melgar, C.2001)

Especially due to favorable production costs and easy access, secondary forests are widely used by the local population. Commercial plantations, on contract, are managed by strong capitalist groups, of a supraregional nature. The use of primary forest seems to be highly variable, with agricultural and forestry functions benefiting all concerned. Agroforestry, by contrast, is a system of agricultural production by the local population.

Table No. 2

«Characterization of the forest harvesting potential of secondary forests compared to other production systems»

	Alternative production systems
	Secondary forest	Forest Primary	Reforestation	Agroforestry
Availability of resources
Quality	Variable	Variable	Controlled	Variable to controlled
Diversity of supply of useful products	Relatively low to medium	Very high	Very low, often monoculture.	Variable depending on the system of use
Species abundance	High, due to strong homogeneity.	Low	High, since it is totally determinable and demand-oriented.	Variable depending on the system of use
Possibilities of use
Physical access	Almost always a place close to towns or with good access	Site far from villages	With good infrastructure and access	Close to towns and with good access.
Right of use	Often confusing and limited	Legally limited right of use	Clarified	Clarified
Production costs
Production costs (Harvest and transport)	Relatively low costs.	High costs for infrastructure and transportation.	Low costs.	Low costs.
Silvicultural treatments.	Easy to implement if there is the will of the owner.	In relatively high managed forest.	Required.	Required.
Stand establishment	Not required	Not necessary	Necessary.	Necessary.
Priority group of users.	Frequently the local population	Local to international.	Especially supraregional.	Especially the local population.

SOURCE: TOB, 2000.

4.2.1. Wood for sawmill / other uses:

Wood production for industry and other uses continues to play a decisive role in forest management. Although other objectives have become important and the increase in wood yields is considered under the premise that it does not obstruct other important forest utilities, most management plans still place wood production at the center of interest, since that out of some exceptions, it is the one that provides the highest monetary income and at the same time, if there is appropriate management, allows it to maintain other functions. Considering the subsequent use of wood, a distinction is made between the categories:

• Wood for self-consumption in subsistence systems (house construction, agricultural uses such as poles or poles, artisan furniture and props) Wood for the local, regional and national market. YWood for export.

The possibility and volumes of wood production for commercial purposes depend not only on the biological potential of the forest (rate of increase, volume per hectare, dimensions and quality of the interesting economic species), but on all series of basic conditions the following factors play An important paper:

• Size and distribution of forested areas, Access to resources, which depends on adequate infrastructure, site conditions (working conditions) and forest land tenure conditions, Capacity for work and investment, A timber market in operation, legal and tax conditions that make marketing attractive.

In the past, the potential of the secondary forest resource for the production of wood for commercial use was considered much less than that of the primary forests, with their valuable and large tree species.

Secondary forests generally have fewer market value timber species, which is mostly due to the absence of a marketing and commercialization strategy. Although the wood properties of typical secondary forest tree species differ from primary forest species in their lower density, there are many secondary forest species that were successfully introduced to the minor forest (eg Gmelina). Here we must highlight the need to intensify both the technological research of wood and public relations activities, to deepen the knowledge and make known the woods of the secondary forest. (TOB, 2001)

Other advantages of the use of secondary forest are the existence of good possibilities of influencing the early stages of growth and the greater homogeneity of many secondary forests (species, wood density, dimensions) since they can facilitate the subsequent harvesting of wood and commercialization.. Furthermore, secondary forests are often more facially accessible than remnants of primary forest, which is often found in remote and easily accessible sites. Production costs in secondary forests vary, depending on whether silvicultural treatments and enrichment plantations are used or just harvesting and transporting (TOB, 2000).

Table No. 3

«Comparison of the potential for obtaining wood from the different production systems»

Production systems Features *	Secondary forest	Forest Primary	Reforestation **	Agroforestry
Good availability of resources	+	++	++	+/-
Good possibilities of use	-	++	++	++
Low production costs	+/-	+	-	+/-

SOURCE: TOB, 2000

+ PSOTIVE ASSESSMENT; +/- AVERAGE VALUATION; - NEGATIVE ASSESSMENT.

* ILLUSTRATION OF THESE CHARACTERISTICS IN TABLE No. 2

** REFORESTATIONS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF WOOD (MONOCULTURE OR MIXTURES)

The local population uses the wood basically for self-consumption and, to a lesser degree, for commercial purposes. The proximity of secondary forests and small to medium-sized arrobes offer this group of forest users favorable conditions for the extraction of wood. The goal of regulated and sustainable wood production, which requires medium to long production periods, is only of interest to the local population if land tenure or property rights are assured in the long term and if there are marketing possibilities or the conservation of forests is valued and remunerated as a "service"

Table No. 4 "Potential for obtaining industrial wood for different user groups in different production systems"

Priority user group	Secondary forest	Forest Primary	Reforestation *	Agroforestry
Local population	++	+	-	++
Regional / national population	+	+	++	-
Global community	+	+	++	-

SOURCE: TOB, 2000.

+ POSITIVE ASSESSMENT; +/- AVERAGE ASSESSMENT; - NEGATIVE ASSESSMENT.

* REFORESTATION FOR THE PRODUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL WOOD (MONOCULTURE OR MIXTURES).

The characteristics of secondary forests that make them suitable for the production of industrial wood are:

Natural characteristics:

Existence of a basic forest with timber species, Advanced succession status (late pioneers), Good site and good growth rate.

Framework conditions:

Low pressure for agricultural use in the early stages, Far-populated site (low potential for use conflicts), Market access, Existence or possibility of establishing market prices, Land tenure and long-term secured use rights, Sufficient availability of investment opportunities and work capacity.

Availability of forest management planning and control according to management plans.

• Wood for energy production:

In many countries it is the most important energy resource and plays a fundamental role, both in the field of merchandise for the supply of urban centers. The wood is used directly as firewood or charred.

Secondary forests, with their different characteristics and at their different stages of development, basically offer good conditions for firewood production. Compared to industrial wood production, the demands placed on the availability of forest resources are low and highly elastic. Regarding the potential for firewood production, when comparing secondary forests with other production systems (primary forest, reforestation, agroforestry), differences are registered, among other causes due to the location of the resource (close to villages), due to the composition of tree species (some species are more appropriate for firewood than others due to their energy value and combustibility, or why the population prefers them),by the dimensions of the trees (extraction possibilities, extraction costs) and by the use rights (TOB, 2000)

Table No. 5

«Comparison of the potential for use of firewood in the different production systems»

	Secondary forest	Forest Primary	Reforestation **	Agroforestry
Good availability of resources *	+	+	+	+
Good possibilities of use	+	-	+	++
Low production costs	+	+/-	-	+/-

SOURCE: TOB, 2000.

+ POSITIVE ASSESSMENT; +/- AVERAGE ASSESSMENT; - NEGATIVE ASSESSMENT.

* FOR THE ILLUSTRATION OF THESE CONCEPTS SEE TABLE No. 2.

** REFORESTATION FOR THE PRODUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL WOOD (MONOCULTURE OR MIXTURES).

In general, there are few differences between the different production systems. However, for example compared to the remnants of primary forests, secondary bogues offer a greater potential for firewood production for the local population, as they are closer, more accessible and are not subject to as many use restrictions. The contribution of reforestation to firewood supply can be defined on the basis of tenure and the objective of management. For the subsistence sector they are not important, since they involve large investments. In the subsistence sector it is very rare that there is an over-use by extraction of firewood, since generally dead wood and small dimensions are sought, such as branches. Firewood marketing, however,it can lead (especially in arid regions and where trees are cut down) to rapid overuse or to total deforestation of large areas. The production of charcoal (for which late pioneer species of secondary forests are preferred due to their high specific density) greatly increases the demand for wood. In the framework of regulated forest management, firewood can represent an additional profit to other wood products, if there is consistent planning. (TOB, 2000)In the framework of regulated forest management, firewood can represent an additional profit to other wood products, if there is consistent planning. (TOB, 2000)In the framework of regulated forest management, firewood can represent an additional profit to other wood products, if there is consistent planning. (TOB, 2000)

Table No. 6

"Potential for obtaining industrial wood for different user groups in different production systems"

Priority user group	Secondary forest	Forest Primary	Reforestation *	Agroforestry
Local population	++	+	-	++
Regional / national population	+	+	++	-
Global community	/	/	/	/

SOURCE: TOB, 2000.

+ POSITIVE ASSESSMENT; +/- AVERAGE ASSESSMENT; - NEGATIVE ASSESSMENT, / DOES NOT COME TO CASE.

* REFORESTATION FOR THE PRODUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL WOOD (MONOCULTURE OR MIXTURES).

Firewood collection and charcoal production represent an additional source of income for many farmers. For firewood, markets are generally established locally, due to high transportation costs. Charcoal, by contrast, can partially be transported over long distances.

The characteristics of secondary forests that make them suitable for firewood production are as follows:

Natural characteristics:

Existence of species in demand in sufficient abundances, Existence of species with high regrowth capacity and relatively good growth, Individuals of reduced dimensions, High proportion of dead wood.

Framework conditions:

Ease of access and proximity to towns, Guaranteed use rights for the surrounding population, Existence of (simple) rules for the use or possibility of introducing them.

4.2.3. Non-timber forest products (PNMB)

Non-timber forest products (PNMB) encompass (according to the FAO definition) all tree products and wild habitat products (plants and animals) in the forest and other similar production systems (agroforestry systems, gardens homemade, plantations, etc.), as long as they are not wood products. The importance of non-wood products lies above all in the use made of them by the population to satisfy their basic needs, to diversify production in all vital sectors (food, worship, props, clothing, construction materials, medicinal supplies), and as an additional source of income. This includes hunting and gathering animal products, which are often of great importance to the population.It can be said, then, that non-timber forest products (PNMB) make a substantial contribution to maintaining and improving the quality of life. Additional marketing may also take place outside the zone of specific products, generally grown or processed industrially. (TOB, 2000)

The PNMB play an essential role as an incentive for the conservation of forest ecosystems. The forms of use of PNMB that are currently taking place allow us to assume a great potential for them in secondary forests. The availability of resources in secondary forests may be advantageous for some uses of non-timber products, since the relative homogeneity of the forests allows an intensive use of the dominant flora or fauna, with short harvest distances. However, compared to primary forests, species diversity is limited and with the devastation of the original forest cover, some of the traditionally used products often disappear, and with them, the knowledge about them. (TOB, 2000)

The PNMB are found naturally in secondary forests need little or no encouragement for their growth and spread. Only an effort is required to harvest and collect the goods, without considering their processing. Like secondary forests, species-rich agroforestry harvesting systems that allow the collection of wild products have a high potential for the extraction of PNMB. Otherwise, you can plan the cultivation of products in these systems or in plantations, but this is a high amount of investment.

Table No. 7

«Comparison of the potential for the use of non- timber forest products (PNMB) in different production systems»

	Secondary forest	Forest Primary	Reforestation **	Agroforestry
Good availability of resources. *	+/-	+/-	+	++
Good possibilities of use.	+	-	++	++
Low production costs	++	+	-	+/-

SOURCE: TOB, 2000.

+ POSITIVE ASSESSMENT; +/- AVERAGE ASSESSMENT; - NEGATIVE ASSESSMENT.

* FOR ILLUSTRATION OF THESE CONCEPTS SEE TABLE No. 2

** REFORESTATION FOR THE PRODUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL WOOD (MONOCULTURE OR MIXTURES). FOR OBTAINING SPECIFIC PRODUCTS.

The use of non-timber products from secondary forests play an especially important role for the local rural population, to cover their basic needs and to diversify their products, as mentioned above.

Primary forests, by contrast, are found in remote, hard-to-reach places and are sometimes under protection. In this case, the use of non-timber products, if any, is concentrated on a few specific products that are of great importance to the local population or other actors (eg medicinal plants) or are of high value. monetary (wild animals).

The directed production of PNMB in agroforestry systems for self-consumption or marketing purposes is a possible alternative for the local population, even when its cost is high. As the demand for a product grows and the forest area (secondary () is relatively reduced, the importance of the product increases. This is also validated for plantations. However, the organization and capital requirements are very high, so that this form of management is reduced to few private and state initiatives, and should be oriented towards the commercialization (generally at the supraregional or international level) of the products (TOB, 2000)

Table No. 8

"Potential for use of non-timber forest products (PNMB) for different groups of users in different production systems"

Priority user group	Secondary forest	Forest Primary	Reforestation *	Agroforestry
Local population	++	+	-	++
Regional / national population	+/-	+	++	+/-
Global community	-	+	+	+/-

SOURCE: TOB, 2000.

+ POSITIVE ASSESSMENT; +/- AVERAGE ASSESSMENT; - NEGATIVE ASSESSMENT.

Thus, secondary forests generally have a high potential for the use of PNMB, which in fact is used by the population, more for self-consumption than for commercialization.

The characteristics of secondary forests that make them suitable for the use of PNMB are the following:

Natural characteristics:

Existence of species with interesting PNMB, Sufficient abundance for sustainable use, either for self-consumption or for marketing.

Framework conditions:

Good access possibilities, Knowledge about species and products, Existence of use rights, (Simple) regulation of use.

4.3. Potential for agricultural use (agroforestry):

The agricultural use to which we refer here in relation to the secondary forest is, specifically, the agroforestry system of use, in which the use of the forest is combined temporally and spatially with livestock and / or agriculture. When agriculture, livestock and forest management are practiced simultaneously, it is assumed that natural factors (shade, humidity, soil protection) are completed, to increase the benefits in their entirety.

When the use is sequential, the surfaces of limited size and which are used for agricultural purposes for a few years, then become forest fallow, which in the best case regenerates completely, in the worst case, the soils. they become permanent steppes or degraded savannas, with little or no use value.

4.3.1. Forest fallow as part of the agricultural use system:

Forest fallow is often an important element of agroforestry use systems (in the sense of a chronological sequence of forest and agricultural use). Within migratory agriculture they play an essential role in restoring the fertility of soils after agricultural use. When the fallow period is long enough, the availability of nutrients from the soil is permanently ensured (eg by repopulating mycorrhizae) and, with it, sustainable use, even in marginal sites. Especially farmers who do not have access to bonds, depend on the natural regeneration capacity of the forest. (TOB, 2000)

The increase in pressure for agricultural use, however, leads to a reduction in the fallow phase, which leads to a loss of productivity. Reduced fallow periods prevent the emergence of a secondary forest with sufficient development, suitable for multiple uses (eg firewood, industrial logging, grazing). In extreme cases, soil degradation occurs, which leads to the establishment of bushes and the demonization of surfaces. The fallow period can be reduced through the use of synthetic fertilizers or by introducing nitrogen fixing plants. For the use of synthetic fertilizers, monetary resources are required that are frequently not available for the introduction of improved soil plants, a sufficient stock of plants must be available.Fallow management requires heavy labor input, so sufficient manpower is required. Furthermore, to ensure long-term management of fallow land, tenure and use relationships should be clarified. (TOB, 2000)

4.3.2. Introduction of agricultural crops in secondary forests:

By introducing annual crops, perennial crops and fruit trees the undergrowth of a secondary formation, multiple use of the secondary forest can be achieved. In extreme cases, forest orchards of great diversity may arise, in which more than 250 species are used. An interesting case within the project is presented in the Forest Management Plan for small forest producers prepared on the property of the Guardado Family, El Salitre Community, Guazapa, in the area of ​​influence of the MAG-PAES project, in El Salvador. In which the Secondary Forest has been developed from a family orchard of fruit species, which allows the diversification of its management through the use of timber species and the production of fruits.Therefore, the planner takes advantage of said diversification to obtain the greatest benefits of the area, for the owner (Melgar, C. 2001).

In the area it is found in the intermediate canopies: Mango varieties; citrus fruits such as orange and lemon and anonaceae, while coffee is present in the lower canopy. (Melgar, C. 2001)

4.3.3. Grazing in secondary forests:

Livestock farming plays an important role from the cultural and economic point of view. Especially in areas where the cultural and economic point of view. Livestock farming is of great importance within the silvopastoral use systems, especially since there are often no alternative production systems. Forage foliage, tree seeds, grasses and shrubs serve as fodder for goats, sheep and cattle, which in turn can favor the distribution and emergence of certain tree species. Some of the forage is cut by hand and given to livestock outside the forest (cut and carry system). The foliage is of great importance, especially in the dry season. The shade offered by the trees is also an important element in livestock farming.An important factor to consider in pasture management is the influence of fire. Grazing is generally linked to the annual burning of the vegetation, to favor the growth of forage grasses. Regular burning leads to the emergence of pyro forest climates, especially in regions of the American tropics affected by recent dry seasons. (TOB, 2000)

4.4. Protection potential:

4.4.1. Soil, water and climate protection:

Secondary forests have a very high potential to fulfill soil, water and climatic protection functions. In general, forests develop rapidly, except in heavily degraded sites, in the face of repeated disturbances (such as those caused by fire) or in the face of inhibition by a strong competing vegetation. Forest development allows direct soil coverage (reducing nitrogen losses) and rapid establishment of nutrient cycles. This is due to the high net primary production of foliage (12 to 15 t / ha) in the first 20 years of its development, since the rapid degradation of compost allows a greater existence of organic material in the nutrient cycle than in biomes. or dead. However,net primary wood production is higher in a young secondary forest (2 to 11 t / ha / year) than in a primary forest.

A regenerative vigor of this type, which allows a rapid natural repopulation of old forest areas, is what we find especially in the secondary forests of the Tropics and temperate zones, and to a lesser extent in the forests of the semi-arid zones. The biomass of foliage and rootlets is already abundant after 5 to 10 years. Especially the early pioneers taking advantage of the site, so they also play a special role in climate protection. Shortly after the cessation of agricultural use, repopulation by early pioneers occurs, so the nutrient runoff is rapidly reduced to values ​​similar to those of a primary forest and far superior to soil conservation work. Mineral nutrients are absorbed by plants, nitrogen from the soil,phosphorus and sulfur values ​​increase in the organic layer.

In this way, secondary forests in their emergence phase can be considered as nutrient sinks with high storage capacity. Only after some time the capacity to accept nutrients decreases, until finally reaching a dynamic equilibrium, in which the nutrients are released through decomposition processes in the same proportion in which they are assimilated again by the accumulation of biomass. After 50 to 80 years, when the net primary production approaches zero, that is, after having completed several cycles, the secondary forests reach their full ecological value. (TOB 2000)

The ecological value of the reforestations varies strongly according to the composition of tree species, the management system and its objective. In general terms, it can be assumed that, thanks to their structural wealth and their natural origin adapted to the site, secondary forests are more appropriate than plantations to fulfill the functions of edaphic and water protection, because reforestation -especially plantations- can lead to soil erosion or they can be treated and / or fertilized with pesticides (if necessary, with negative effects for surface waters, coastal regions and groundwater).

The local population benefits directly from the protection functions of the secondary forest, when they concern their own land or resources. When the impact occurs in larger areas (eg in an entire basin), then it also favors the regional and national interest (better water quality, offer more regular water, less and less flooding). Especially on steep slopes, soil and water protection become important functions of secondary forests.

Climate and emission protection can have the same importance for the local population as for the regional population. Secondary forests can fulfill these functions, as long as they can reach a certain extension and height. Climate protection is important for agriculture, as it protects it directly against the wind and favors the balance of temperature and humidity. But also the proportion of forest in a distant or neighboring region can influence the local climate (especially with regard to the level of rainfall. In urban areas, “protection against emissions” is also important, a function of secondary forest that includes, among other things,, noise protection, visibility protection,protection against gas emissions and infiltration of dust from the atmosphere.

In places close to populated areas (agricultural / livestock areas, urban centers), primary forests generally no longer exist, so they cannot assume their protective functions. In this context, secondary forests represent a possible alternative. Compared with reforestation, they are a lower cost solution and in most cases more adapted to fulfill the protection functions, thanks to their multiple layers and greater structural wealth (TOB 2000)

4.4.2. Protection of vital spaces for fauna and flora, conservation and improvement of biodiversity:

Biodiversity means the variety of life forms or living beings in a given natural space. Genetic resources are generally autochthonous plant or animal populations of a site, characterized by a joint gene bank, by a minimum number of existence (conservation of the genetic variety through the recombination of genes) and by a minimum living space.

Secondary forests represent an important vital space for plants and animals. Despite the fact that compared to primary forests their varieties of species and existence are altered, given the alarming decrease in the area of ​​primary forests, secondary forests play a decisive role with habitat and refuge for native flora and fauna.

In their diversity of species and in their ecological stability, secondary forests generally outpace reforestation, especially plantations that are poor in kind, but also areas used in agroforestry. Depending on the initial state of the disturbances that have occurred during the succession and development process, secondary forests can sometimes achieve species diversity of primary forests in less than 80 years, especially when dominant species can become established again by shoot of shoots or by seeds that remained in the forest. However, secondary forests have a higher proportion of pioneer tree species, which are found only sporadically in primary forests. In its total structure,primary forests are only found sporadically. In their total structure, secondary forests almost always differ markedly from primary forests, even after a long time.

In addition to presenting geobotanical differences of different types compared to primary forests, secondary forests generally have less Faustic diversity. For example, herbivorous and specialized insectivorous animals are missing, due to the disappearance of the corresponding ecological niches. The animal species that are still in the secondary forests have, in contrast, a greater abundance. A greater distribution of the frugivores may be due to the greater availability of fruits, as well as the less dependence of the season. Secondary forests cannot replace primary forests, but they do provide substantial support for the conservation of genetic resources such as genebanks, from which the necessary seed can be obtained for future reforestation. (TOB, 2000)

4.4.3. Reduction of atmospheric carbon through management and sustainable use of secondary forests:

The use of fossil energy, which has increased rapidly in the industrialized countries since the industrial revolution and is still increasing, has led to such a long-term increase in the concentration of carbon in the atmosphere, which is already measured in parts by thousand. While shortwave sunlight still passes through the atmosphere and heats Earth's surface, long surface heat waves are again reflected by the atmosphere back to Earth. The warming that occurs in this way affects the atmospheric layers near the surface, which is commonly known as the greenhouse effect.

Although the scientific discussion on the possible effects of this phenomenon is far from having reached definitive conclusions, there is a well-founded suspicion that the greenhouse effect will produce long-term climate change.

The most important carbon dioxide sinks globally that can counteract the increase in carbon concentration described above are the oceans and forests. Mature stages of climatic forest, such as those typically reached by primary forest, are generally characterized by high wood reserves per hectare, in which a considerable amount of carbon dioxide is stored. At the same time, these maturity stages of forest development are in a dynamic equilibrium, that is, the dissimilation and assimilation are mutually balanced. As a result, there is no net additional fixation effect, so mature primary forests are carbon dioxide stores, but not sinks.

In contrast, in young forests or forests that are artificially conserved young through a forest management process, the assimilation rate is clearly higher than the dissimilation. With the typical formation of volumes in the productive development stages of the stand, a considerable net fixing effect occurs, which persists until reaching the maturity stage.

Any forest, either after a catastrophic event or after wood extraction, tends to develop towards the equilibrium stage (maturity). Regarding the carbon balance, the sustainable management of forests, with repeated extraction of wood (removal of biomass), means that the stand is permanently conserved in the development phase. Depending on the particular form of use, different effects are produced:

• Harnessing of wood for the manufacture of durable wood products (furniture, buildings or part of them), net carbon dioxide fixation in the products, which will be reversed only after being burned or rotting.

• Harnessing wood for energy production, under the premise of strict sustainability, fuelwood consumption is neutral with respect to the carbon balance. This can be illustrated with a simple example, an area of ​​ten hectares will be managed in a cycle of ten years for firewood production. Every year one hectare is fully used, which is immediately reforested. The extracted firewood is totally burned, which totally releases the carbon dioxide that was fixed by said hectare of forest in the last ten years. That amount of carbon dioxide corresponds exactly to the amount that: a. It will be fixed on the forest surface, or b. It will be fixed in the used in the next ten years, until it is used.

• Under the premise that the quantity of goods consumed and used of energy consumed remain constant, a net reduction of the carbon dioxide agreement by substitution can also be assumed. If for example a given quantity of wooden furniture is produced instead of steel, glass or aluminum, or a given quantity of energy is produced from wood instead of using fossil energy sources, an additional saving is registered of carbon dioxide emissions. (TOB, 2000)

In summary it can be said that:

1. Forest devastation releases considerable amounts of stored carbon dioxide (even when a portion of the wood is used to make durable products). Forest protection conserves carbon by fixing it. Only a forest managed sustainably for wood production (or in general a young forest until reaching its stage of maturity) can fix carbon dioxide (the use of wood from sustainable forest management, as construction or construction material (as far as possible to substitute other construction materials for construction) It is capable of fixing carbon in a lasting way. The use of wood from sustainable forest management for energy purposes (as possible as a substitute for fossil fuels) is at least neutral with respect to carbon dioxide.

4.5. Potential for tourism and recreation:

Tourism and recreation can be important both locally and nationally. In many countries tourism already constitutes a high proportion of the gross social product. At the local level, the activity often offers the population an endless number of options to obtain additional income.

The importance of the secondary forest can be evidenced within the program's action area with the multiple visits that the municipality of Cinquera receives, to visit the so-called Cinquera forest. In the context of the devastation of primary forests, secondary forests become more important for tourism. This is indirectly the case for example of the conservation of natural rivers and protection against erosion on mountain slopes. However, primary forests continue to be unique for natural tourism and can hardly be replaced by secondary forests. The attractiveness of secondary forests increases, on the one hand, with the advance of the stages of forest development and, on the other hand,when activities in secondary forests can be walked regionally.

Compared to reforestation, secondary forests have a greater potential for tourism. They are more natural and generally have a richer structure. Frequently, they are intended for intensive logging, possibly with the corresponding regulations of ownership and access or entry, excluding their diversified use. (TOB, 2000)

5.Proposal for the development and sustainable management of secondary forests in the area of ​​influence of the MAG-PAES program:

5.1. Model of Forest Management Plans for Small Forest Producers -PMFPPF-:

Sustainable management of secondary forests as permanent forest formation or within agroforestry systems is basically possible. The types, qualities and quantities of yield and products offered by secondary forests are similar to primary forests in different degrees.

Among the substitute uses of secondary forests that can help reduce pressure on primary forests, the model of forest management plans for small forest producers is proposed as an alternative, existing within the area of ​​action of the IICA-CATIE-CRS consortium- UCA, owners of farms with remnants of secondary forests, which within the integrated farm management scheme allow to provide another productive alternative, which enriches the diversification systems, considering the products, by-products, non-wood products and environmental services provided by the secondary forests.

Secondary forests are generally located near the towns, and are more accessible for the industrial use of wood, thanks to the existing infrastructure. The volumetric present within the secondary forests within the consortium area ranges from 5 to 10 cubic meters per hectare of sawn wood, without considering the firewood that can be obtained. This volumetry allows the implementation of silvicultural systems that allow the systematic ordering of the secondary forest in order to quantitatively and qualitatively improve the production of forest products and by-products.

The PMFPPF model is aimed to be easily understood and applied by forest owners, trying to simplify its applicability, with the participation of forest owners being essential from the initial planning stage of the forest census to its execution in the field., as an operation after the technical / legal approval of the national forest service. The technician within the model no longer has the preponderant role of the forest manager, he becomes a trainer and manager, considering the forest owner as a fundamental part of the process of formulation, management and operationalization of management plans (Melgar, C. 2001)

For his part, the owner of the forest also takes a role as a trainer and trained, since as far as possible and the structural characteristics of the secondary forest that is on his property, the model is a systematized adaptation of the activities that he had been developing within it in an unorganized way. The PMFPPF model is easily assimilated within the framework of comprehensive farm planning, operated within the watershed management scheme, having a planning and operationalization range between 0.5 to 45 hectares (1 to 64 blocks).

The indirect benefits that the management of secondary forests brings to the forest owner must also be considered, in most cases the secondary forests present in the project area are products of the abandonment of agricultural and livestock areas, which occurred during the period of armed conflict. In many cases, forests are between 20 to 30 years old. Being in the parts of the hillside above the area that the owner uses for agricultural production, they are initially subject to selective extraction processes to obtain firewood, sawmill and roundwood for construction, which can be used for commercialization or for the self-consumption, after extraction and with the need to expand the area of ​​agricultural production or inclusion in livestock farming,the remaining forest is uncovered and burned. There is a change in land use from forestry to agriculture. We must emphasize that there is a lack of formation of new secondary forests, increasing pressure on existing forests and even on primary forests.

In other cases the secondary forests are found attached to gallery forests, associated with water-producing sources, serving in these cases as buffer zones, as is traditional by farmers, the gallery forest is respected but the secondary forest around the it is subject to a possible change in forest / agricultural use. It has a negative impact on water resources.

In the above cases, the most obvious option is the implementation of actions with the owners of secondary forests that allow management and conservation in the medium and long term. The option is the formulation and operationalization of forest management plans for small forest producers.

A very important aspect to cover is the commercialization, the potential alternatives of the use of the wood coming from the secondary forests for the local and national industry are viable and highly profitable. Extraction through a management plan legally approved by the national forest service automatically generates an added value to the wood to be extracted. There is a need to establish a joint marketing process among small forest producers, thus obtaining better prices than if they did it independently. (Melgar, C. 2001)

For example, in the so-called protected area complexes of southern Peten, Guatemala. Forest management plans were generated for small forest producers, in secondary forests and intervened forests. Within the management process for approval by the forest service of the National Council of Protected Areas, a parallel commercialization process was implemented, which ends favorably through the creation of the Association of Small Forest Producers of La Soledad, which commercializes their products and by-products collectively. (SEGEPLAN-PROSELVA, 2001)

5.1.1. Features and benefits of PMFPPF implementation:

Among the main characteristics of the formulation of forest management plans for small forest producers are:

Easy theoretical / practical understanding by forest owners and technicians.

The forest owner is considered as a priority actor in the planning, field execution of the forest census, operationalization of silvicultural systems and harvesting.

Systematization of ordinary processes carried out by forest owners, which facilitates their understanding and assimilation by the owner.

Suitable for use within the framework of planning and operationalization of comprehensive farm management models used in watershed management.

Preferably viable to be used in areas of 0.5 to 45 hectares.

Low formulation and operational costs.

It considers the forest as part of an agrosystem, included in the integral farm management models.

Management Plan elaborated easy to understand for owners and people who consult it.

Easily applied monitoring and evaluation systems that contribute to the regulation of harvesting and management activities to be implemented in the forest can be implemented by the national forest service.

5.1.2. Benefits of the PMFPPF model:

Among the direct and indirect benefits offered by the model are:

Systematization and regulation of extractive activities developed in secondary forests.

It establishes actions that promote forest conservation through forest management, reducing pressure for change in land use.

Reduces the negative impact on forests near gallery forests of products from water producing sources, which contributes to maintaining the quality and quantity of water.

It fosters the organization through the formation of committees or associations for the wood commercialization processes.

5.1.3. Steps to follow for the elaboration of PMFPPF:

Below are the general aspects for the formulation of management plans under the PMFPPF model, it is suggested to expand the information in this regard in the document "TRAINING MANUAL FORMULATION OF FOREST MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR SMALL FOREST PRODUCERS".

1. Proposal to PMFPPF formulation owner: As in all activities associated with rural work, the formulation and mainly the implementation of the management plan will not be successful if the technician does not establish clear rules with the forest owner from the beginning of the activities, therefore which the technician must explain precisely and clearly, what are the objectives pursued with the formulation of a forest management plan, the benefits and commitments acquired in the formulation and implementation process, and must evaluate the level of commitment of the forest owner before starting the next steps.

1. Forest recognition: The model establishes as a technical basis that the forest is not less than 0.5 Hectares and is not greater than 45 Hectares, for which reason the recognition will allow us to establish first that it meets this requirement. In the reconnaissance process, it is suggested that the technician be accompanied by the forest owner, defining the boundaries as the present species in order to establish the general conditions of the forest in terms of predominant species, presence of natural regeneration, incidence of forest fires and property regime. (Melgar, C. 2001)

1. Collection of legal documentation: In the previous number, the legal requirements necessary to enter the management plan into the SSF were clearly specified, and said stationery must be collected before field operations, the primary objective being to establish the property regime and the viability of formulating the management plan, if the owner does not present or possess any type of documentation that supports the property regime, the technician must discard the formulation of said management plan. It is even suggested that if possible verify the authenticity of the property regime with the responsible authorities.

1. Active participation of the owner: During the field execution of the methodology, the owner's participation must be taken into account, which will become a Rural Forester during the formulation, and the methodology must be implemented in an orderly manner and without a time limit. in order to transmit to the owner as much information as to why the work is being carried out, preferably by answering any questions that they ask.

1. Perimeter delimitation of the forest: The first operational step is the delimitation of the perimeter of the forest, which will be carried out with a compass and tape measure, making a sketch of the process during execution. On each corner or cairn of the property I can demarcate with red spray paint.

1. Opening of internal gaps for commercial census: The Forest Management Plan model is based on the commercial census system, executed in the field through the opening of gaps of 1 meter wide, located in the field perpendicular to the slope, Located in a frank north-south or east-west direction, the distance will depend on the width or length of the terrain, at the ends that will mark trees or / and place beacons (stakes) 2 to 3 inches thick, 1.30 long. which 0.30 centimeters must be inserted into the ground. Which will be marked with red paint.

1. Tree Census: By having the forest delimitation and the gaps openings and duly demarcated, we will proceed to census the trees by gap using the counting and data collection starting on the right of each gap, the data to be entered in the ballot field are:

Distance in meters from the zero point (Tree or / and Beacon of beginning) and gap, used XY axes, which will allow entering the data from the ballot to the sketch of the forest to locate the trees, according to their type;

Common name;

Diameter at Chest Height –DAP-;

Total height;

Phytosanitary status;

Tree to Extract, Future Harvest or Seed Tree;

Observations of use.

For the identification of the trees, they will be marked with colored paint, at the height of –DAP-, which indicate to the owner the type of forestry treatment to be needed, the colors to use of paint on the trees are the following:

1. Tree to Extract = Blue. Future Harvest Tree = Light Blue. Seed or Protection Tree = Yellow.

It is important to make the marking in a technical way, explaining to the owner or rural forester, the technical criteria of the selection of the type of tree, based on the quality and use of wood; shaft shape; species; age; part of gallery forest or birth protection, etc.

The selection of trees to be extracted must be carried out jointly with the owner of the plot, previously listing potentially usable species, considering the uses of the wood (sawmill, rustic construction, firewood, charcoal, etc.).

1. Emptying of Ballots in the Management Plan Model Format: After carrying out the forest census, the field ballots will be emptied in the PMFPPF format, calculations to find the volume in cubic meters is relatively simple, considering that for broadleaved species There are pre-established formulas that facilitate this process. The format is easy to understand so no knotting is required in explanations. The most important thing is to develop the Plan or Sketch of the Forest Census as closely as possible to the data obtained in the field. (Melgar, C. 2001)

1. Presentation and Delivery of Forest Management Plan: It is recommended that before submitting the Management Plan, a joint presentation be made with the forest owner to the forest service, during which the technician will describe the actions to be followed for its operation, the forest owner You must personally deliver the Management Plan to the forest service, with all the technical and legal paperwork necessary for its due approval process. (Melgar, C. 2001)

6.Bibliography:

Melgar C. Model training manual for the formulation of forest management plans for small forest producers, IICA / CATIE / CRS / UCA consortium, El Salvador, 2001.

TOB, Importance of Secondary Forest Management for Development Policy, ECO, Society for socio-ecological program consultation, 2000.

Reuter, F, Forest Management Manual, Broadleaved Forest Projects, Honduras, 1991.

SEGEPLAN-PROSELVA, Progress report of the forest management belt of southern Peten, Peten, Guatemala, 2001.

Forest fallow means an area on which secondary forests develop during the fallow (agricultural) phase

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