Priority-Zone Mapping for Reforestation : Case Study in the Montane Dry Forests of Bolivia

This book describes the development of a priority-zone map for reforestation measures, showing where reforestation might have the greatest social and ecological benefits.

Andean dry forest ecosystems are threatened by deforestation and unsustainable land use methods. The negative effects for the livelihood of the local population, biodiversity, and the regional climate could be countered by reforestation measures; however, dry land forests have not attracted the same level of interest and investment like other ecosystems. This book describes the development of a priority-zone map for reforestation measures, showing where reforestation might have the greatest social and ecological benefits. To achieve this, a problem analysis of a case study region is conducted and thematic reforestation benefits are determined. Using remote sensing and GIS, the areas where benefits can be obtained are mapped in individual layers and compiled into a summarizing priority-zone map. It is thus possible to identify areas where reforestation would achieve multiple benefits. The concept of priority maps could be used to facilitate reforestation strategies by local communities and municipal governments and could thus contribute to initiate an integrated forest and landscape restoration of the Bolivian montane dry forests.