Restoring tropical forests: a practical guide

Tropical and subtropical forests cover a relatively small portion of the earth’s surface, but they’re home to over half of the animal and plant species on earth. Since these forests are rapidly disappearing, there is no room for error in restoration activities and decisions. Restoring Tropical Forests is a practical guide based on proven techniques that will enable readers to make the right decisions toward saving these valuable lands.

The book is based on the innovative techniques developed at Chiang Mai University’s Forest Restoration Research Unit, Thailand. It takes a threepart approach, first looking at effective general concepts of tropical forest dynamics and regeneration, then at specific proven restoration techniques, and finally at how to use research methods to refine and adapt the techniques to local ecological and socioeconomic conditions. In addition, illustrations and case studies of successful applications help to make this a global, user-friendly guide. Whether for developing new techniques or improving old ones, Restoring Tropical Forests is a valuable tool for effective, ecologically sound change.

Stephen Elliott is a scientist at Chiang Mai University, where he teaches courses on wildlife conservation and tropical plant ecology.

David Blakesley is the director of Wildlife Landscapes, an ecological consultancy involved in habitat restoration of temperate and tropical ecosystems.