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Area fees and logging in tropical timber concessions

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  25 July 2007

Abstract

Area fees have become an increasingly important component of forest revenue systems in tropical developing countries. They are commonly viewed as having a neutral impact on decisions by timber concessionaires. This view is incorrect. Using both theoretical and empirical models, we demonstrate that area fees can induce concessionaires to accelerate timber harvests and to harvest more selectively. In Cameroon, area fees at recent levels create an incentive for concessionaires to harvest forests in half the estimated sustained-yield period. Countries that wish to encourage concessionaires to comply with sustained-yield requirements must implement measures that counter the depletion-accelerating effects of area fees.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
2007 Cambridge University Press

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