list of figures - Terry Sunderland

clears the plot again to plant food crops. The income generated from the harvesting of
rattan in this way is significant.
9.3.2.4 Silvicultural systems
Intensive cultivated forestry-based systems have concentrated on the incorporation of
rattan into tree-based plantation-type systems. The need for a framework for the rattan
to grow on is imperative and the planting of rattan in association with tree cash crops
was begun in the 1980s. In particular, planting under rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) and
other fast-growing tree crops has proven relatively successful and both silvicultural
trials and commercial operations, under a wide rage of parent crops are commonlyencountered
throughout SE Asia.
9.3.3. Harvest procedures
The harvesting techniques employed in the extraction of rattan, and which are
generally the same despite geographic differences, have an impact on potential
sustainability, particularly for clustering species. The mature stems selected for
harvesting are those without lower leaves (i.e. where the leaf sheaths have sloughed
off) and usually only the basal 10-20m is harvested; the upper “green” part of the cane
is too soft and inflexible for transformation and is often left in the canopy. In many
instances, all the stems in a clustering species may be cut in order to obtain access to
the mature stems, even those that are not yet mature enough for exploitation and sale.
This is particularly an issue where resource tenure is weak.
In general, two simple interventions can be implemented to improve upon rattan
harvesting practices:
For clustering species;
· Younger stems, often indiscriminately cut during harvesting should be left to
regenerate and provide future sources of cane. Rotational harvesting systems
could be increased if this was the case. However, better “stool management”
relies on adequate resource tenure.
For all species (including solitary species):
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