Methods of Dendrochronology: Applications in the Environmental Sciences

basic data are deficient and the assumptions conservative, the net discounted benefits of all options considered are consistently positive.Interpretation of the results includes a qualitative review of risks and returns for the two base cases.Given the lack of hard data on the effects of shelterbelts and farm trees on crop yields, the author suggests five topics for future research.These deal with: (1) crop yields in areas with shelterbelts; (2) influence of agroforestry and shelterbelts on soil conditions; (3) interaction of shelterbelts and farm forestry with agropastoral practices; (4) optimal spacing of shelterbelts; and (5) optimal farm tree densities and spedes.In addition to these technical topics, some suggestions are made for research on social and economic issues, such as open access, other types of externalities, and land use policies.The book ends with a brief conclusion stressing the importance of the afforestation approaches discussed and the promises they hold, provided that farmers respond to programs.In addition, the author emphasizes that a higher degree of public recognition of the problems and commitment to addressing them is needed.Although this is a case study, it is very well documented, technically sound, and easy to read.Each chapter contains articulated reference notes, which are particularly useful.A technical appendix on cost-benefit analysis and a bibliography of 58 titles complete this work.Because of its deliberately limited case study scope, this book does not cover an essential set of issues in Sahelian forestry, namely the management of remaining natural stands.Increased biomass productivity and economic viability appear feasible under certain