BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Farm forestry is an emerging discipline in developing countries that enables individuals to meet their needs for fuelwood, fodder, and timber by planting suitable trees on agricultural land This land use system aims to maximize benefits by integrating forest crops with traditional farming practices According to Kalinganire et al (2007), farm forestry involves the intentional combination of woody components with agricultural and pastoral operations, fostering ecological and economic interactions NSW (2003) further defines it as a system where farmers incorporate commercial tree growing into their farming practices to produce both wood and non-wood products, promoting sustainable resource management and enhancing agricultural productivity Essentially, farm forestry entails large-scale tree planting on previously cleared agricultural land, which can involve individual farmers, partnerships between farmers and companies or governments, and plantations managed by companies.
In Pakistan, the significance of farm forestry emerged in the late 1970s to supply wood to the market and combat poverty Various provinces initiated farm forestry projects, but the pivotal momentum was gained when the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched the Forestry Planning and Development Project from 1985 to 1994 This initiative supported farmers by accepting their nurseries, setting a benchmark for future projects Consequently, successful interventions in farm forestry led to notable advancements in the sector.
80 percent of the total fuelwood used in Pakistan was provided by farmland The
The provinces of Punjab and KPK have set up regular forest circles to enhance forest extension and promote farm forestry Trees are cultivated on both private and communal lands, with clear ownership rights established: landowners retain ownership of the trees on their property Many private landowners lease their agricultural land to tenants under well-defined terms and conditions.
Trees on farmland significantly enhance the microclimate, providing a cooling effect during hot summer days and protecting us, our animals, and homes from harsh weather conditions (Simons and Leakey, 2004) They improve soil fertility and promote microbial and enzymatic activity, which are essential for healthy soil (Tian et al., 2001) Additionally, trees contribute to economic development by safeguarding watersheds, maintaining biodiversity, and enhancing environmental quality (Bukhari, 1997) Globally, forests store between 460-575 billion metric tons of carbon, with each acre holding approximately 180 metric tons (Khan et al., 2011) Furthermore, forests mitigate wind erosion and reduce flood intensity along riverbanks and canals (Simorangkir, 2006) In Pakistan, forests are vital for protecting land and water resources, thereby extending the lifespan of dams, reservoirs, and irrigation systems (FAO, 2000).
Forests are vital for communities and nations, serving as reservoirs of biodiversity and playing key roles in water catchment, soil erosion prevention, and providing timber and non-timber resources They contribute significantly to the leisure industry through eco-tourism and offer essential ecosystem services, such as nutrient cycling, soil formation, oxygen production, carbon sequestration, and climate regulation, which are often perceived as free Additionally, forest biodiversity holds a hidden value in its genetic stock, with potential benefits yet to be fully realized.
Farm forestry and agroforestry play crucial roles in environmental sustainability by controlling soil degradation and desertification, reducing groundwater pollution, and enhancing biodiversity at both farming and landscape levels These practices alleviate pressure on forest margins by providing on-farm supplies of wood and other forest products, while also contributing to the reduction of atmospheric carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
CURRENT STATUS OF FOREST IN PAKISTAN
Pakistan boasts a diverse landscape that includes deserts, valleys, hills, alluvial plains, and a lengthy coastline This variety in geography contributes to a rich ecological distribution of both fauna and flora The country's climate is predominantly arid subtropical, with an average annual rainfall of 250 mm, while some of the driest areas receive less than 123 mm Forest resources in Pakistan are limited, covering only 4.8% of the land area, excluding farmland plantations.
Over 40% of Pakistan's forests are coniferous and scrub, primarily located in the northern regions, with 40% in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 15.7% in the Northern Areas, and 6.5% in Azad Jammu and Kashmir In contrast, 80% of the population and wood-based industries are situated in the southern and central parts of the country As the 7th most populous nation globally, Pakistan has a growth rate of 2.1%, leading to a significant reliance on limited forest resources for wood and wood products The per capita forest area is merely 0.0265 hectares, far below the world average of one hectare, and only one-third of the total forest area is productive, with the remainder serving environmental and protective purposes.
Pakistan has one of the lowest forest coverage rates globally, with its forestry resources being significantly underdeveloped (McKetta, 1990) Current statistics reveal that the forest area in Pakistan is considerably less than the global average of 30 percent (FAO).
In 2001, developing countries faced a 26 percent criterion for forest resources, highlighting significant challenges The country experiences more acute forest shortages compared to many South Asian nations, with limited natural forest resources and varying figures for forest area and land utilization.
4 from 3.1 percent(State of World Forestry, 2003) to 3.6 percent of the total land area (Akhtar Hameed Khan Centre for Rural Development, 2002)
Pakistan has lost about 0.21 million hectares of the forest with a deforestation rate of 2.1%, means it has lost an average of 0.043 hectares of forest annually (FAO,
Regeneration is largely absent in many forests, with slow-growing trees unable to meet the high demands for fuelwood, fodder, and raw materials for industries, leading to significant ecological degradation The insufficient forest resources struggle to support the needs of a growing population and expanding industries Historical mismanagement and modern infrastructure development have exacerbated the loss of tree cover, resulting in a timber and firewood shortage of approximately 29 million cubic meters in Pakistan.
Depletion and deforestation have been ongoing for over a century, with forests disappearing at an alarming rate due to urbanization, population growth, and extensive wood usage for fuel and furniture Major contributing factors include overgrazing, lax government policies, and the involvement of officials in timber sales, alongside the rural population's reliance on wood Additionally, commercial over-exploitation and various financial, technical, and political issues exacerbate the problem, as tree cutting exceeds replanting rates This rapid decline in forest cover results in environmental degradation, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and reduced agricultural yields With public forest areas unable to expand to meet the growing population's demands, state forests currently provide only 14% of timber and 10% of fuelwood, while farmlands supply 46% of timber and 90% of fuelwood needs.
Expanding tree cover on farmlands in Pakistan by up to 10% can significantly benefit both rural and urban populations without negatively impacting agricultural crops (Qureshi, M.A.A., 1998) Central Punjab is home to approximately 200 million trees, with 95% located in irrigated areas The government's strategy for farm forestry aims to regain control over tree resources and address the degradation of forest lands To ensure sustainable use of marginal lands and protect high-quality land, tree planting on farmlands emerges as a practical solution to meet the economic and non-economic needs of rural communities, thereby supporting their livelihoods (Khan et al., 2011).
Low participation in farm forestry is attributed to social forestry projects primarily addressing biological and technical aspects, while neglecting the perceptions of local communities and potential beneficiaries (Malik, 1989) Research in Pakistan has concentrated on social and physical factors influencing farm forestry, resulting in a ranking of constraints and benefits as identified by respondents (Dove).
According to Dove (1995), the key factors influencing the development of farm forestry in Pakistan are human rather than physical Farmers' perceptions play a crucial role in decision-making, particularly regarding how their tenure status may impact their choices about planting trees For instance, tenants often consider how their landlords might respond to their intentions to cultivate trees on the land they lease.
A socio-economic study of farmers is crucial for effective farm forestry planning Analyzing household and farm characteristics can enhance our understanding of farmers' relationships with tree cultivation Sinclair and Walker (1999) emphasized that a lack of quantitative insights into farmers' tree-growing practices hinders improvements in existing systems By examining the characteristics of farms and farmers in relation to tree growth, we can design better strategies for sustainable forestry (Nair and Dagar, 1991).
COMMON FARM SPECIES IN THE STUDY AREA
The common trees species grown on farmland include Acacia nilotica (kikar),
The article discusses various tree species, including indigenous ones such as Dalbergia sissoo (Shisham), Bombax ceiba (Simal), Morus alba (Mulberry), Salix spp (Willow), Melia azedarach (Bakain), and several Populus species Additionally, it mentions the introduction of exotic species like Eucalyptus spp, Robinia pseudocacia, Ailanthus altissima, and Frash.
THE REASON FOR SELECTION OF THIS RESEARCH
To evaluate the economic viability of farm forestry systems, Montambault & Alavalapati (2005) emphasize the necessity of comprehensive social and economic analyses to understand adoption factors and guide future research Singh (2006) identifies key constraints to adoption, including inadequate infrastructure, outdated agricultural practices, and the poverty of farmers Akbar et al (2000) highlight that limited acceptance stems from insufficient consideration of farmers' perspectives on decision-making factors Arnold and Dewees (1998) argue that effective strategies for promoting tree planting must consider farmers' tree management within their household livelihood strategies, noting a lack of understanding regarding farmers' perceptions of tree value and the challenges they encounter Additionally, local political dynamics have been shown to influence the success of farm forestry initiatives in Bangladesh (Dove, 2003).
The future of farm forestry in Pakistan hinges on understanding farmers' perceptions regarding the factors influencing tree planting on their lands Enhancing our knowledge of farmers' beliefs and attitudes towards farm forestry is crucial in shaping their intentions to grow trees Additionally, identifying the factors that either promote or hinder tree planting is essential Despite its importance, there has been limited research on farmers' actual decision-making processes related to tree planting and their perceptions surrounding these decisions.
7 perceived my thesis on a “key factor which influences three planting decision of household a case study in Pakistan”.
GOAL, OBJECTIVES, AND RESEARCH QUESTION
Goals
The Goals of the study is to promote tree planting in the farmlands by households in Tehsil Dargai District Malakand Pakistan.
Specific Objectives
(1) To assess the current situation of tree planting in the farmland of Malakand
(2) To identify factors influencing tree planting decision in farmland in Malakand
(3) To investigate the constraints faced by farmers in tree planting in Malakand
(4) To propose recommendations for the improvement of plantation in the farmlands in Malakand.
Research Questions
(1) What is the current situation of tree planting in the farmland of Malakand?
(2) What are the key drivers/factors affecting tree planting decisions of household in Malakand?
(3) What are the major constraints/problems related to tree planting in Malakand?
THE SCOPE OF THIS RESEARCH
This thesis addresses a significant gap in existing research by examining the factors influencing household tree planting decisions in the study area, as no prior studies have explored this topic The findings will serve as a foundation for future research across various locations in Pakistan, contributing valuable insights into household decision-making regarding tree planting.
LITERATURE REVIEW
FACTORS AFFECTING/INFLUENCING TREE PLANTING DECISION
Factors influencing tree planting activities include the farmer's gender, household size, education level, experience, association membership, research and extension contact, land tenure security, agro-ecological zone, village accessibility, and livestock income (Nkamleu & Manyong, 2005) Additionally, attitudes significantly impact farmers' decisions regarding tree planting (Zubair & Garforth, 2006) Conservation-oriented land-use practices can support farmers' land-use decisions, while changes in land tenure and market economics have been linked to shifts in tree planting activities in Bangladesh (Khaleque and Gold, 1993).
Land use decisions are influenced by various factors such as soil quality, farm size, labor availability, household education levels, farming experience, land tenure security, market proximity, farm age, off-farm income, household wealth status, access to credit, and technical knowledge.
2004) In these independent variables, no consistent effects were observed in terms of relationships between land use and household characteristics
According to Dixon et al (2001), households are diverse in terms of resources and operate within heterogeneous biophysical, policy and institutional environments
Pichon (1997) explores how soil fertility, the topographical location of farmland, farm age, and household resource endowment significantly impact land use decisions Additionally, the demographic characteristics of farm households, including the education level of the members, play a crucial role in these decisions.
9 household head, family and wage labor, and consumer units had significant effects on land use decisions Security of land tenure also significantly influenced land- allocation decisions (Ebanyat et al., 2010)
Perz (2001) also point out that household demographic variable, the institutional framework, off-farm income, farmer‟s background and belonging to group exerted significant effects on tree planting activities
Browder et al (2004) identified that farm size is a crucial factor affecting decisions related to annual and perennial cropping Their research revealed that household demographic characteristics, including gender and age (with the exception of total family size), as well as policy and environmental factors such as access to technical assistance and off-farm incomes, did not significantly influence land use decisions.
Factors such as soil quality, the slope of farmland, proximity to forest, create conditions more or less favourable to grow and maintain trees (Place and Garrity,
2015) Proximity to markets may also generate incentives to favour certain types of trees, especially those yielding perishable products like fruits (Pattanayak et al.,
Smallholders exhibit significant diversity in their socio-economic, perceptual, and motivational traits, as noted by Scherr (1995) This diversity impacts their readiness and capacity to adopt various land-use practices and management strategies, such as tree planting Research conducted in tropical and sub-tropical regions has demonstrated that socio-economic factors play a crucial role in influencing farmers' tree planting activities (Emtage and Suh, 2004; Mahapatra and Mitchell, 2001; Simmons et al.).
Silvicultural management activities and local knowledge play crucial roles in influencing tree plantation success Economic scarcities, geographic location, and socio-political structures also significantly impact these efforts Government policies and incentives are essential for fostering growth in this sector Additionally, participation in social organizations, such as farmers' groups, has been recognized as beneficial for encouraging the adoption of new farming practices.
10 planting and management activity includes access to markets (Scherr, 2004) and environmental factors such as site quality (Jagger et al., 2005).
FARM CHARACTERISTICS FACTORS
Tree planting is often limited by land availability, particularly for impoverished farmers who typically have minimal ownership or access to private land As a result, these farmers are compelled to focus on cultivating staple food crops that yield quick annual returns, rather than investing in the slower-growing trees.
Hence, it is often found that farmers with larger areas of land have a tendency to plant and manage more trees than the farmers with limited land (Summers et al.,
Poor farmers with limited land rely heavily on essential forest products, such as fuelwood, leading them to plant high densities of trees on their farms The small size of their land results in minimal wood volumes, making harvesting and transportation to market often uneconomical Consequently, these farmers are motivated to manage their crops, including trees, sustainably and efficiently, as they depend on the limited resources for their livelihoods Additionally, smaller land areas are easier to protect from damage, such as forest fires or diseases, which encourages a focus on quality production.
Unclear land tenure often discourages farmers from planting or managing trees due to uncertainty about their rights to use or sell them However, recent changes in forest governance are strengthening local rights over land and trees, which can empower farmers and enhance their decision-making regarding land and resources While allocating land for tree planting can encourage sustainable practices, it may also conflict with existing uses by rural communities, potentially harming livelihoods and leading to marginalization.
Tree planting initiatives that necessitate land titles have proven effective in establishing farmers as legal landowners, highlighting the significant impact of land tenure on specific cases (Arnold, 1998).
2.2.3.Location of farm and house
The location of a farmer's land significantly influences their decision to plant and manage trees, considering factors such as proximity to their home, natural forests, wood industries, and markets (Scherr, 2004; Simmons et al., 2002) In many developing countries, some individuals must work far from home to seek better livelihoods (Rudel, 2009) For these farmers, planting trees can be a productive strategy, allowing them to maintain control over their land while away (Dewees and Saxena, 1997; Van Noordwijk et al., 2007) Conversely, farmers who reside near their farms can more effectively protect and manage their trees (Arnold, 1996).
The presence of trees on farms significantly reduces the time and labor required for households to collect forest products, particularly in areas where natural forests are limited (Arnold and Dewees, 2014) Additionally, the farm's proximity to markets plays a crucial role in tree planting activities, especially when wood is intended for cash sales In remote regions with low population density and inadequate infrastructure, market access becomes challenging Conversely, urban areas near wood-consuming industries offer a more viable option, as transportation costs to these markets are less of a concern (Scherr, 2004).
HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS FACTORS
Socio-demographic factors like age, gender, education, and social status serve as indicators of farmers' preferences, including their risk tolerance and conservation attitudes, which are challenging to quantify (Pattanayak et al., 2003).
Research indicates that gender significantly impacts tree planting activities, with households led by males or those with a higher number of male members being more engaged in such efforts (Pattanayak et al., 2003; Scherr, 1995) Additionally, factors like age and education serve as indicators of human capital, enhancing the likelihood of tree planting through increased environmental awareness and knowledge of planting techniques (Simmons et al., 2002) Education is crucial for sustainable forestry at all levels (Schmidt et al., 1999), and studies have shown a positive correlation between formal education and enthusiasm for tree planting (Mercer, 2004; Thacher et al., 1996).
The impact of farmers' age on tree planting activities remains ambiguous Research indicates that older farmers tend to have greater risk-bearing capabilities and prefer less labor-intensive tasks, such as tree planting, while younger farmers often face limitations in land ownership, labor availability, and resources, leading them to prioritize diverse crops for regular income over tree planting However, some studies highlight that young, educated village leaders can be innovative and actively engage in tree planting Additionally, personal characteristics play a role, as tree planters are often perceived as more innovative and willing to take risks compared to their non-tree planting counterparts.
Despite the wealth of traditional knowledge surrounding tree planting, many farmers still lack essential skills and understanding in tree planting and management This gap in knowledge is a significant barrier to the success of small-scale tree planting initiatives.
Smallholders in Indonesia and other tropical developing countries frequently employ inadequate silvicultural practices in their timber plantations, resulting in low timber quality and quantity Irregular spacing and random species composition often occur due to a lack of informed decision-making, compounded by farmers' insufficient technical skills Management efforts are typically restricted to wood harvesting, with minimal silvicultural intervention between planting and harvesting To enhance the success of smallholder tree planting and management, improved extension activities are strongly recommended.
SOCIO-ECONOMICS FACTORS
Socioeconomics factors include the opportunity cost of production, input and out the price of the market, transactions cost, risk and access to credits, a discount rate of economic decision
2.4.1 Production cost, transaction cost and Market
Farmers interested in planting and managing trees are significantly influenced by functional markets, where the quantity and quality of wood complicate market dynamics, particularly for those with small land areas and limited silvicultural management skills Smaller plantation areas yield lower volumes, leading to increased harvest and logistics costs, especially when situated far from production plants and markets, which diminishes their appeal to industries Conversely, farmers located near production facilities and local markets, equipped with adequate infrastructure, benefit from favorable market conditions for tree planting and management Additionally, the industry's reliance on a consistent supply from small-scale plantations poses a challenge.
Low and unstable market prices for wood are a major disadvantage for tree planters (Scherr, 2004) The lacks of the open market can also give companies influence
Individual farmers face significant challenges in making production decisions, such as selecting species to plant and determining harvest times They often lack negotiation power regarding wood prices, having to accept company-dictated rates that are frequently below market value due to limited market access, insufficient information, and high transaction costs This lack of knowledge about price incentives hinders farmers from producing higher quality products, which is a barrier to improved silvicultural management practices Additionally, the presence of middlemen reduces the profits that ultimately reach the farmers.
Incentives are essential policy tools that enhance the benefits of forest plantations, thereby encouraging investments in their establishment (Durst and Enters, 2004) To promote tree planting and management among farmers while maximizing their profitability, various incentives are offered, including land, seeds, seedlings, fertilizers, extension services, cash handouts, harvesting assistance, and guaranteed markets For the poor, who often lack access to credit for tree planting, these incentives can be vital However, some researchers have raised concerns about the risks associated with dependency on loans, particularly if the anticipated outcomes are not achieved (Arnold, 1998).
Incentives for tree planting can have both positive and negative impacts, potentially leading to unsustainable practices When farmers plant trees primarily for economic benefits, such as cash or fertilizers, it often results in poor management and low-quality yields Additionally, complex bureaucracy and unclear land titles can hinder farmers' access to available tree planting incentives, limiting their ability to participate effectively in sustainable practices.
Along the production chain, different demanding objectives are required to produce quality wood, such as seedlings, machinery, fertilizers, herbicides, and harvesting
Capital intensity in tree planting increases with added value from transportation, processing, and marketing Poor farmers face significant constraints due to a lack of capital, while wealthier farmers are more likely to invest in tree planting due to their ability to take risks The long growth period of trees makes it a long-term investment with minimal immediate returns, exposing farmers to risks such as price fluctuations and natural hazards This situation is particularly challenging for poor farmers who rely on limited resources for daily survival Only those with on-farm food supplies, off-farm income, or access to affordable loans can manage the lengthy payback period Additionally, limited access to capital and credit hampers smallholders' ability to compete with larger plantation companies, which benefit from economies of scale.
Establishing and maintaining tree plantations demands lower capital investment compared to more intensive crops like oil palm (Ravindran and Thomas, 2000) Consequently, tree planting is often preferred due to insufficient start-up capital for other cash crops or a lack of ability to maximize productivity (Dewees and Saxena, 1997) Furthermore, tree planting typically requires minimal hired labor, as farmers usually perform most of the work themselves (Evans).
1992) Farmers are often even willing to work below the minimum wage if they are building assets on their own farms (Van Noordwijk et al., 2007)
Tree planting is a low labor-demanding land use option that allows limited labor to be allocated to other income-generating activities, both on-farm and off-farm Households relying on off-farm income sources are more inclined to utilize their land for tree planting compared to those dependent on on-farm income Conversely, in some remote rural areas, households with more working members may engage in tree planting due to a lack of off-farm opportunities for unskilled laborers Additionally, farmers often face capital constraints that prevent them from cultivating the most profitable crops due to high establishment and management costs.
BIOPHYSICAL FACTORS
Biophysical factors such as site quality, soil characteristics, slope aspect, and the distance between a farmer's house and their field significantly impact tree growth A shorter distance between the farm and the farmer's residence enhances tree management and protection (Arnold, 1996) Additionally, having trees on the farm reduces the time and labor required for collecting forest products, particularly in areas where natural forests are limited (Arnold and Dewees, 2014) Furthermore, the farm's location relative to markets plays a crucial role in tree planting activities; remote areas with poor infrastructure hinder market access, while urban locations near wood-consuming industries facilitate easier transport and reduce costs (Scherr, 2004).
Site conditions, including the soil characteristics and climatic conditions, affect the success of tree planting Not all sites are suitable for tree planting or for all species
On the other hand, tree planting can often be a feasible option to make a use of marginal lands Tree planting can also have a negative effect on the site, and
Site quality can be degraded by factors such as decreased soil fertility and reduced water availability in watersheds Tree growth is positively associated with fine-textured clayey soils, while coarse-textured soils have a negative impact Additionally, climate plays a significant role in tree planting efforts Forests sequester carbon, which has spurred political interest in climate change and increased state initiatives to expand plantations, ultimately providing supplemental income for rural communities through payments for environmental services and carbon sequestration.
Dinh et al (2017) found that soil quality significantly affects tree planting decisions, revealing a negative correlation between good quality soil and tree planting Households that do not engage in tree planting tend to have a higher proportion of grey soil and live farther from allocated forestland In contrast, households are more likely to plant trees on grey soil, which is the second-best soil type in the region after basaltic soil Additionally, the slope of the land positively influences tree planting intensity, as forest trees are often planted on sloping areas unsuitable for agricultural crops Furthermore, the average distance from home to allocated forestland negatively impacts the decision to plant trees, as greater distances increase the opportunity costs associated with tree planting.
INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
The government plays a crucial role in enhancing the profitability of smallholder tree planting by establishing clear and stable policies, creating a favorable investment climate, and providing incentives, secure land rights, and necessary infrastructure Additionally, supporting farmers' organizations and forest management associations can further promote small-scale wood production and marketing However, developing countries face significant governance-related challenges, such as policy failures and institutional obstacles, that hinder the progress of smallholder tree planting.
Weaknesses in land-use data, tenure issues, and a lack of trust in government hinder effective governance (Barr et al., 2006; Luttrell et al., 2011) Key elements of good governance, such as information sharing, transparency, rule of law, and conflict resolution, are often absent (FAO, 2009) Additionally, the top-down approach to distributing tree planting incentives has led to perceptions of corruption among local government officials (Barr et al., 2006).
Government regulations aimed at conserving natural forests often inadvertently hinder small-scale tree planting by imposing complex and costly permission processes for farmers to harvest, transport, or sell wood This bureaucratic burden can lead to unofficial fees paid to officials during wood transportation Additionally, policy failures such as decentralization, uncontrolled logging licenses, and mismanagement of land rehabilitation funds contribute to forest degradation and low success rates in tree plantation initiatives in developing countries.
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK OF THE STUDY
This study integrates diverse perspectives from social and economic sciences to examine the factors influencing farmers' decisions regarding tree planting within farm forestry systems It employs a theoretical framework based on existing research that highlights the socio-economic, environmental, biological, and institutional factors affecting tree planting activities Notably, smallholders exhibit significant variation in their socio-economic and motivational characteristics, as well as their land-use experiences, which in turn affects their willingness and ability to adopt various land-use options and management strategies, including tree planting Research in tropical and sub-tropical regions has consistently shown the impact of these socio-economic factors on farmers' decisions.
Numerous studies have identified 19 motivational factors that influence farmers' tree planting activities, including research by Emtage and Suh (2004), Mahapatra and Mitchell (2001), and others Additionally, silvicultural management practices are also affected by these factors, as noted by Summers et al (2004) and Walters et al (2005) Access to markets has emerged as another significant factor impacting tree planting efforts, highlighted in the works of Arnold (2001), Ravindran and Thomas (2000), and Scherr.
2004), Ecological factors such as site quality (Jagger et al., 2005; Kumar et al.,
2003), institutional factor like secure property rights to land and tree crops, a viable production technology and capacity for crop protection (Byron, 2001)
A variety of factors significantly influence smallholder tree planting activities, as evidenced by previous studies Key socio-economic variables include opportunity costs, market prices, risks, and economic incentives, while household characteristics encompass education level, age, household asset size, yearly income, and on-farm income Farm characteristics such as land area, planting initiatives, land availability, planting materials, market distance, and existing forest resources also play a crucial role Additionally, biophysical factors like soil type, quality, nutrients, and slope aspect are important, along with institutional factors including property rights, secure production and transportation rights, and land tenure Ultimately, the decision to plant trees among the target population serves as the dependent variable, influenced by both independent variables and potential intervening factors that may strengthen or weaken their relationship.
Figure 2.1 Conceptual model for identifying a key factor affecting tree planting decision
Socio-economic factors strongly influence smallholder land use decisions The criteria that determine why a land user chooses a particular land use are related to
(Age , gender, education level, house hold size, perception toward plantation, silviculture knowledge etc
( Opportunity cost of production, input and out price of market, transactions coast, risk and access to credits, discount rate of economics decision
(Soil quality, soil type, slope of area, distance b/w farm and house
Farm characteristic factors:(Land holding size and land availability, planting material and knowledge, total house hold, livestock, crop, access to existing forest resource, distance to market
Tree planting decision of household
Customary, rules, norms and beliefs governing access to land, land security, tree planting and rights to trees
Legal rules conferring access to land, land security and rights, to trees and tree products
Secured property rights to land, trees and tree products
Conceptual framework for identifying key factor affecting tree planting decision modified from (Hai & Huong, 2018) and (Divine et al., 2012)
The decision to plant trees is influenced by the potential for a positive economic return that exceeds the zero return from leaving the land unused, assuming no credit constraints To determine the most suitable locations for tree growing, it is essential to consider socioeconomic factors such as opportunity costs, market access for inputs and outputs, transaction costs, risk, access to credit, and the discount rates of economic decision-making units.
The cost of production negatively impacts tree planting, particularly in areas with low physical infrastructure, which hinders market access and reduces production incentives In contrast, urban regions near wood-consuming industries are more favorable, as transportation costs to markets are less of a constraint (Scherr, 2004).
Access to credit significantly influences farmers' ability to engage in tree planting, as highlighted by Scherr (1997) The production chain for quality wood necessitates various inputs such as seedlings, machinery, and fertilizers However, poor farmers face major constraints due to a lack of capital, making them less likely to invest in tree planting compared to wealthier farmers who can take on risks (Byron, 2001; Mahapatra and Mitchell, 2001; Scherr, 1995) The long growth period of trees exposes farmers to risks like price fluctuations and natural hazards, which disproportionately affects those with limited resources (Angelsen and Wunder, 2003; Dewees and Saxena, 1997) Only farmers with access to affordable loans can manage the lengthy payback period associated with tree planting (Arnold, 1996) Additionally, investment in tree planting is often hindered by the limited wealth of local households and ineffective rural credit markets (Holden and Yohannes, 2002) Farmers also struggle with negotiating fair prices for their wood, limited market access, and high transaction costs (Perdana et al., 2012; Rohadi et al., 2012).
Biophysical factors such as site conditions, soil characteristics, and climatic conditions significantly influence tree planting activities Not every site is appropriate for tree planting or suitable for all species However, tree planting can be a viable option for utilizing marginal lands where agricultural crops are not feasible Conversely, it can also negatively impact the site, potentially degrading its quality by reducing soil fertility or water availability in the watershed.
Socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, education, and social status significantly influence farmers' preferences regarding risk tolerance and conservation attitudes, which are challenging to quantify (Pattanayak et al., 2003) Research indicates that gender affects tree planting activities, with male-headed households or those with a higher number of males being more engaged in such initiatives (Pattanayak et al., 2003; Scherr, 1995) Additionally, age and education serve as indicators of human capital, enhancing the likelihood of tree planting through increased environmental awareness and knowledge of planting techniques (Simmons et al., 2002) A positive correlation exists between formal education and enthusiasm for tree planting (Mercer, 2004; Thacher et al., 1996), with Dinh et al (2017) highlighting the significant impact of education on tree planting efforts Furthermore, studies show that tree planting household heads tend to have higher education levels compared to non-tree planters (Etongo et al., 2015), and young, educated village leaders are often the innovators driving tree planting initiatives (Song et al., 2004).
The impact of farmers' age on tree planting activities remains ambiguous Research indicates that the age of a household can affect decisions regarding crop planting (Walker and Homma, 1996) However, a study by Dinh et al (2017) found that the age of household heads does not significantly influence planting decisions.
Research indicates that older farmers possess greater risk-bearing capabilities compared to their younger counterparts (Thacher et al., 1996) Younger households often face limitations in land ownership, labor availability, and resource requirements, which diminishes their ability to manage risks effectively Consequently, they tend to prioritize a diverse range of crops for consistent income and food security rather than investing in tree planting (Walker and Homma, 1996) Additionally, the distance from home to allocated forestland negatively impacts the decision to plant trees, as greater distances increase the opportunity costs associated with tree planting (Dinh et al., 2017).
Key characteristics of farms, such as landholding size, intensification level, household income, livestock ownership, access to forest resources, and market distance, significantly influence agricultural practices Research in Bangladesh indicates a positive correlation between farm size and the decision to plant trees, revealing that farmers with larger homestead land and those whose primary income derives from non-agricultural sources are more inclined to engage in tree planting activities (Salam et al., 2000).
Tree planting is often limited by land availability, particularly for the poorest farmers in tropical regions who typically have minimal or no access to private land As a result, these farmers are compelled to focus on planting staple food crops that yield quicker returns, rather than investing in slower-growing trees.
Farmers with larger land areas are more likely to cultivate and manage trees compared to those with smaller plots (Summers et al., 2004; Thacher et al., 1996) Additionally, due to their reliance on the limited resources generated from their land, these farmers are motivated to manage their crops, including trees, in a sustainable and efficient manner (Sen and Das, 1988).
Unclear land tenure in Indonesia and other tropical regions discourages farmers from planting or managing trees, as they lack assurance of their rights to use or sell these trees This ambiguity in land ownership often prevents farmers with uncertain tenure from engaging in tree planting programs.
Some case studies indicate that tree planting initiatives requiring land titles have effectively helped farmers gain recognition as legal landowners, highlighting the case-specific influence of land tenure.
STUDY METHODOLOGY
STUDY AREA
Malakand is a division in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa, Pakistan, established as a Provincially Administered Tribal Area in 1970 Previously, it was known as the Malakand Protected Area, which was part of the Malakand Agency Since its formation, Malakand district has been an integral part of the Malakand division.
The Malakand District, located in the northern Khyber Pukhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan at coordinates 34° 35´ N latitude and 71° 57´ E longitude, spans an area of 952 square kilometers (94,287.66 hectares) Of this, 52,134 hectares remain uncultivated, while 45,681 hectares are cultivated (Govt of NWFP, 2003) This district serves as a strategic gateway to Bajaur, Lower Dir, Swat, and Bunair, and is surrounded by mountains that were once lush with diverse trees, though they now appear barren Malakand District is bordered by Lower Dir to the north, Swat to the east, Mardan and Charsadda to the southeast and southwest, respectively, and Mohmand and Bajaur Agencies to the west The district comprises two main Tehsils: Tehsil Dargai, situated in the foothills, and Tehsil Batkhila (District Population Department, 2017).
Figure 3.1: Map of the study area Malakand
Agriculture serves as the main source of income for the local population, with key economic crops including wheat, sugarcane, tobacco, rice, and maize The region also supports a variety of vegetables and orchards, with an abundance of fruit gardens, particularly known for guava and peaches Wheat and sugarcane dominate the agricultural landscape, occupying a significant portion of the land in the project area.
Table 3.1: Crop and vegetable grew in the study area during 2016
Note: (Rabbi is the crop which grown in summer season e.g July), While Kharif is the crop grown in winter season e.g Oct)
(Source: Haji Muhammad statistical officer Agriculture department Dargai 2018)
Malakand district covers an area of 952 km² and has a population density of 760 people per square kilometer The literacy rate in the region stands at 39.50%, with the majority of residents being Pashtuns who speak Pashto as their first language Additionally, a nomadic group known as Gujar resides in the area Agriculture serves as the primary source of income for the local population.
Table 3.2: Demography information of the study area
Housing Units having Piped Water 11624 (23.56 %)
Housing Units using Gas for Cooking 2743 (5.56 %)
(Source: Pakistan district Bureau of statistics 2017)
Malakand's soil is characterized by moist loamy textures, benefiting from irrigation provided by the Swat River, which originates in Swat and merges with the Kabul River near Charsadda However, the average annual rainfall of 600 to 650 mm is insufficient for optimal agricultural productivity.
Malakand's soil necessitates artificial irrigation due to its geographical conditions The region is encircled by towering mountains abundant in mineral resources, including deposits of chromites, iron, china clay, and fuller earth Additionally, Malakand is home to three hydroelectric power generation stations: Malakand I, II, and III.
(Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malakand_District)
Malakand, situated at an elevation of 2,705 feet above sea level, is characterized by its mountainous terrain and dry climate The region experiences its hottest months in June, July, and August, with summer temperatures exceeding 40°C, while winter temperatures can drop to as low as 6°C As part of the subtropical zone, Malakand features a unique ecosystem, including associations of Dodonea and Chir pine, and boasts a forest cover of 4,409 hectares.
DATA COLLECTION
A questionnaire was developed through a consultative process to align with the study's objectives and was pre-tested to minimize duplication and biases The survey focused on available financial resources, village heterogeneity, and other relevant attributes, resulting in interviews with 120 households from the entire Tehsil.
3.2.1 Sampling design and sample size
District Malakand have 2 nations Pushtuns and Gujars Pashtuns are the permanent residents of the area, while Gujarsare nomads I conducted a household survey of
The study utilized a stratified random sampling technique to gather data from 120 households across 10 different villages, following the formula established by Green (1991) Each village was categorized into distinct strata, with 10 households interviewed in villages with more than 50 households, 12 in those with over 100, and 15 in villages exceeding 150 households.
150 respectively, from each village The total number of household in the location (N) constituted the sampling frame and the unit of sampling was the individual households
The formula for the calculation of sample size: n>50 + 8m (1)
In which n: sample size m: number of independent variables
A sample size of the interviewer was measured by the following formula Interviewees to be sampled = sample size ÷ population size × stratum size
In the table below sample size is 120, the population size is 18878and stratum size is 1535…….2270
Table 3.3: Household Sampling in Tehsil Dargai
Nations Name of villages Household Population No of Interviewed to be sampled
Table 3.4: Sampling design in Tehsil Dargai
DATA SOURCE
Both primary and secondary data collection method was used to get data on different variables, while personal observation and daily participation was also done
In Pakistan, the eldest male typically serves as the head of the household, making key decisions regarding plantation activities on their land Primary data was gathered through surveys conducted via face-to-face interviews and group discussions with households in the study area A pre-test was performed to ensure clarity and enhance reliability The research aimed to collect valuable information on household size, landholding composition, and sources of income.
Group discussions were conducted with elderly individuals and key informants at the village level to gather valuable insights These discussions provided essential historical and general information about the area's flora and fauna, population trends, and both past and current management practices Additionally, they offered perspectives on the potential future scenarios for the plantation.
Secondary data was gathered from the district population department, district agriculture department, and Divisional forest office of district Malakand, published papers, books and other sources
To obtain data effectively a crew of 4 persons collects data through questionnaires and personal observation
Data was collected from households using standard semi-structured questionnaires, which included both open and closed-ended questions aligned with the project objectives This approach fostered personal contact with respondents, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the survey information.
These include local farmers, local representatives of the community and relevant departments.
DATA ANALYSIS
The survey collected qualitative information, which was then compiled, summarized, and organized into tables Farmers were classified into two groups based on their land holdings: those with 1-4 hectares and those with more than 4 hectares The data underwent coding and processing to eliminate irrelevant information, and analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20) and MS Excel 2007, employing both descriptive and analytical procedures.
Descriptive statistics play a crucial role in summarizing the fundamental characteristics of data in research They are utilized to calculate the means and standard deviations of independent variables, which in this study include factors such as farmers' monthly income, farm accessibility, the age of the household head, household size, education level of the head of household, family literacy, the purpose of tree plantation, perceived constraints by farmers, and various socio-economic traits Additionally, qualitative variables were examined through frequency calculations and crosstabulation tables to explore the relationships between dependent and independent variables.
The bivariate correlation procedure calculates Pearson's correlation coefficient for quantitative variables, which measures linear association According to IBM SPSS v.20, this coefficient is not suitable for non-linear relationships In this study, Pearson's correlation was employed to examine the relationship between household tree planting decisions (dependent variable) and various factors (independent variables) A correlation is considered significant if the absolute value of Pearson's correlation coefficient is greater than 0.3 Factors that showed a significant association with the independent variable in the bivariate analysis (p < 0.05) were selected for stepwise binary logistic regression Only those factors with a significant relationship to the independent variable were included in the stepwise regression analysis.