Muhammad Zubair

Promotion of Farm Forestry in Punjab Pakistan: Analysis of the Perceptions of Small Scale Farmers Muhammad Zubair

Very low forest area in Pakistan demands brisk running of strategies to increase tree cover. One of the feasible solutions recognized is the promotion of farm forestry. Tehsil Lodhran in Punjab Pakistan is deficient in tree resources. A study was conducted to understand perceptions of small scale farmers for promotion of farm forestry. Empirical findings from survey revealed that status of farm forestry was poor in the study area; yet, farmers were more interested in tree planting, have good tree knowledge and liked all locally available tree species. Farmers were not satisfied with the role of Forest Department. Mass media and other audio visual aids were regarded as most liked and effective source of farm forestry information by the farmers as well as Forest Department. Forest Department perceived that farmers paid less attention to tree growing. They believed that the department adopted all measures for the promotion of farm forestry. The study concluded with the wider role of both farmers and Forest Department in the promotion of farm forestry and resolving ambiguities in terms of each other recognition and needs cooperation in increasing tree cover on farmlands.