Size issue in forestry areas

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)