Forestry development project

Midterm evaluation covered the period 1987-1991. Overall, the project has been a success. The standing timber sales program, which has been implemented nationwide, has been a major contribution to the conservation and sustainable use of the forest resource. Band sawmill production has increased from 60% to 74%, reducing the use of less efficient circular sawmills and improving log utilization. Two model forest management units have been established to provide the Honduran Forestry Development Corporation (COHDEFOR) with management practices that can be replicated throughout the country. Areas that still need special attention include the residual value timber appraisal system, improvement of harvesting methods, reduction of soil erosion, and supervision of timber sales. The future emphasis of the project should include additional support to the timber sales program, a forest protection component, and the implementation of the annual allowable cut concept nationwide. In summary, the project has been well defined and its objectives are clear, with the possible exception of the managerial reorientation of COHDEFOR. Continued TA and a time extension is vital to the future success of the project. The following lessons were learned. (1) The quality of the TA varied according to individuals appointed and was not dependent on parent organizations selected. (2) Project monitoring was negatively affected by the lack of adequate reporting by the long-term TA team. (3) Good, hands-on TA in the field was effective in implementing change. (4) Managerial effectiveness and improvement was hampered by the policy of hiring political appointees who were not professionally qualified. A no-cost extension of the PACD to 12/31/96 was approved. (Author abstract, modified)