Size issue in forestry areas

JAKARTA (JP): The Ministry of Forestry and Plantations is mulling the possibility of setting a minimum size for forest concession areas operated by timber companies, a senior official said Friday.

Head of the ministry's research and development agency Toga Silitonga said very small concession areas made it unfeasible to manage forests in an environmentally sustainable manner.

"Managing larger area of forests will be more profitable and more economical. Timber companies have to own large areas which can support their efforts in managing forests in a sustainable manner," Toga said.

He said the minimum feasible area would depend on the type of the wood and the concession location, saying that it would be better if timber concessionaires managed more than 10,000 hectares.

A study on the issue is expected to be completed by the end of this year. (gis)