Pilot study investigation of socioeconomics of natural resource utilization in the Kabo logging concession, Northern Congo

Of particular interest were research methodologies that would be able to address differences between village types and household wealth and between two ethnic groups (Bantus and Pygmies) regarding attitudes toward wildlife, hunting activities, and meat consumption, as well as general utilization of non-timber forest products. The study was part of a comprehensive series of studies administered through the Wildlife Conservation Society by the Congo Forest Conservation project and intended to assist in the development of a management plan and monitoring system for natural resource conservation. Four methodologies, including census and map making, questionnaire administration, monitoring of daily activities and food consumption, and a survey of hunting activities, were tested and yielded data on demographics, employment, household wealth, attitudes, daily activities, food consumption, and the estimated rate of return and economics of hunting. Data were analyzed according to household wealth, village type, and ethnic group. Results indicate that the methodologies tested have the potential to be used in studies of variables that may influence non-timber forest product use and decision making. As the sample sizes in some portions of the study were too small for statistical analyses and as only one season was covered during the course of the study, recommendations were made to carry out a more comprehensive study over a one-year time period and to include additional logging and traditional villages in the study. References are provided. (Author abstract, modified)