Introduction

Abstract

Afforestation and reforestation are important activities for restoration of terrestrial ecosystem productivity in arid and semiarid areas. Overuse of forests and other vegetation has resulted in large areas of barren land and depletion of soil cover, risking permanent loss of the productive capacity of the land. Loss of productivity of land resources creates a vicious circle of poverty and accelerated resource overuse as human and livestock populations continue to grow. While the imperative of afforestation and reforestation in these areas is beyond question, the actual work of afforestation and reforestation faces many challenges. Whether the objective is protection of watersheds or production of fuelwood and fodder for the local communities, the physical constraints of an arid environment coupled with the complex issues of land tenure and resource ownership make afforestation programmes a challenge that can only be overcome with utmost consideration and planning. Deployment of appropriate technology, institutional arrangements, and enabling conditions for participation by local communities are the sine qua non of successful afforestation and reforestation programmes in arid and semiarid tropics.