Guyana National Forest Plan

GUYANA National Forest Plan Guyana Forestry Commission 2011 Contents National Forest Plan Objectives Acronyms 1. Introduction .......................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Forest Policy ................................................................................................. 1 1.2 Forest Legislation .......................................................................................... 2 1.3 National Forest Plan ..................................................................................... 3 2. National Planning and Co-ordination ................................................................... 4 3. Forest Resource Management ............................................................................. 7 4. Forest Industry ................................................................................................... 12 5. Research and information .................................................................................. 15 6. Education and Training ...................................................................................... 17 7. Social Development ........................................................................................... 18 8. Linkages ............................................................................................................. 19 Summary of Programmes Summary of Activities ACRONYMS CI - Conservation International EPA - Environmental Protection Agency ES - Environmental Services FAO - Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations FMD - Forest Monitoring Division (of Guyana Forestry Commission) FPA - Forest Products Association FPDMC - Forest Products Development and Marketing Council FRM - Forest Resources Management Division (of Guyana Forestry Commission) FTCI - Forestry Training Centre Inc. GFC - Guyana Forestry Commission GIS - Geographic Information System GLSC - Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission GMSA - Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association GNBS - Guyana National Bureau of Standards GoG - Government of Guyana GOINVEST - Guyana Office for Investment LCDS - Low Carbon Development Strategy MoU - Memorandum of Understanding NDAP - National Biodiversity Action Plan NDS - National Development Strategy NFP - National Forest Plan NFPS - National Forest Policy Statement NGO - Non Governmental Organisation NTC - National Toshaos’ Council OCC - Office of Climate Change PDD - Planning and Development Division (of Guyana Forestry Commission) REDD+ - Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation Plus R-PP - Readiness Preparation Proposal SFM - Sustainable Forest Management SFP - State Forest Permission National Forest Plan Objectives National planning and co-ordination To develop a sustainable and productive forest sector, fully and effectively integrated into the national economy, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders. Forest resource management To ensure that forest resources are sustainably managed to the highest practicable standards and that, social, economic and environmental benefits are optimised and the needs and aspirations of all interest groups are considered. Forest industry To promote the growth of an efficient and competitive forest industry, optimising the benefits from sustainable harvesting, conversion and further processing of forest resources for national markets, and competing effectively in international markets. Research and information To develop and promote improved understanding and awareness of the forest environment and processes through a broad based programme of forest research, dissemination of information and publicity. Education and training To satisfy sector requirements for properly skilled, trained and educated forestry personnel by providing high quality courses and programmes at all levels. Social development To contribute to the effective realisation of social responsibilities, satisfaction of social needs and attainment of social benefits by stakeholders in the forestry sector. 1 1. Introduction The Government of Guyana continues to update and rationalise policies and laws relating to the conservation, management, protection and sustainable development of the nation’s forest resources. This initiative began with the drafting of the National Development Strategy in 1996. The Strategy provides guidance for the development of the forest sector by identifying national development objectives and constraints. Sections of the strategy of particular importance to the forestry sector include those on forest management, Amerindian policies and education. In 2001, the Guyana Forestry Commission responded to the requirements of the National Development Strategy with a programme for the formulation and implementation of policies, strategies and action plans for the forest sector. The major components of this programme addressed:  National Forest Policy  Forest legislation In 2010, the Commission has undertaken revision of the National Forest Policy taking into consideration of new developments in the forest sector, changes in the legislation, and new and additional policy decisions. The updating exercise also considered the Commission’s performance against the 2001 draft National Forest Plan and its implementation of the National Forest Policy Statement drafted in 1997. The National Forest Plan provides the framework through which the National Forest Policy is implemented and therefore requires periodic update to complement changes in the policies governing the forest estate. The Plan comprises several programme areas which are executed through a number of activities, many of which are long-term and continuous, whilst some are more short term. All activities are subjected to continuous review. 1.1 Forest Policy The first National Forest Policy was prepared and finalised after two years of broad consultation with the industry and other sector interest groups. Cabinet formally approved the Policy in October 1997. The Policy recognised changes in Guyana’s economic, social and political environment over the nearly 50 years since the previous forest policy 1 was published. Increased attention was placed on environmental aspects and to the importance of forest management in national development. International initiatives including decisions taken at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 were recognised. The GFC coordinated the revision of the National Forest Policy Statement and the National Forest Plan in 2010, through a series of consultations involving wide stakeholder involvement including written submissions, community meetings and focus-group engagements. This revised Forest Plan therefore embodies ideals for enhanced development and wider opportunities for the management of Guyana’s forest estate. Programme areas of the Plan have expanded to address new dispensations such as the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), increased value added production, additional guidelines for sustainable forest management (including non-timber forest products), improvements in marketing strategies, meeting training and human resource capacity needs, ensuring community development are satisfied, and forest resources equitably shared; all of which are enshrined in the National Forest Policy Statement. Emphasis ranging from the development of the timber potential of the forests to management of the multiple goods and services (including ecosystem services) for the national benefit remain pivotal to the mandate of the GFC, whose work programme is driven by the Forest Plan for the fulfilment of the policies promulgated for the management of Guyana’s forest estate and the resources therein. 1 Forest Act 1953 2 The overall objective of the National Forest Policy is: the conservation, protection, management and utilisation of the nation’s forest resources, while ensuring that the productive capacity of the forests for both goods and services is maintained or enhanced. The specific objectives are: (a) to promote sustainable and efficient forest activities which utilise the broad range of forest resources and contribute to national development while allowing fair returns to local and foreign entrepreneurs and investors; (b) to achieve improved sustainable forest resource yields while ensuring the conservation of ecosystems, biodiversity, and the environment; (c) to ensure watershed protection and rehabilitation: prevent and arrest the erosion of soils and the deforestation and degradation of forests, grazing lands, soil and water; promote natural regeneration, afforestation and reforestation; and protect the forest against fire, pests and other hazards; (d) identify, quantify and assist in the marketing of environmental services to generate forest incentives for national development 1.2 Forest Legislation To support the implementation of the forest policy, the Guyana Forestry Commission has reviewed existing forestry legislation and prepared a new draft Forests Act. The purpose of the new Act is to reform the law relating to the management of forest resources, to provide for sustainable management and to consolidate provisions of predecessor legislation. The new legislation provides for: (a) the conservation of the forests of Guyana, including measures to conserve biodiversity, special species and habitats, soil and water resources, and to protect forests against pollution, fires, pests and diseases; (b) the participation of interested parties, including Amerindians, local communities, non-governmental organizations and persons engaged in the commercial utilization of forests, in the development and implementation of forest policies; (c) the sustainable use of Guyana's forest resources, in accordance with Guyana's development needs and level of socio-economic development, pursuant to national policies; (d) the integrated and comprehensive regulation of the multiple and complementary functions and uses of the forests of Guyana, including traditional uses; (e) the promotion and regulation of primary conversion, secondary and tertiary processing activities, including the use of environmentally sound technologies and the facilitation of market access for value-added forest products; and (f) the discharge of Guyana's responsibility to ensure that activities within its jurisdiction or control do not cause damage to the environment of other States or areas beyond the limits of national jurisdiction. Specifically, the (Forest Act 2009) provides for (a) sustainable forest management of State forests. 3 (b) protection and conservation of forests, including measures to – (i) conserve biological diversity; (ii) protect specific trees and plants; (iii) conserve soil and water resources; and (iv) protect forests against degradation, fires, pests, and diseases, (c) the regulation of forest operations and activities relating to forest produce; and quality control of value-added forest produce 1.3 National Forest Plan Both the forest policy and the (draft) forest legislation outlines obligations of the Guyana Forestry Commission, other sector agencies and stakeholders, of ensuring the resources are properly managed and conserved, while the goods and services derived from these resources provide benefits to local and national development. The National Forest Plan provides the framework within which identified programmes and activities are implemented in a manner that ensures cohesion with the National Forest Policy, and compliance with the laws that govern the forest estate and its use. The National Forest Plan also identifies the Commission’s responsibilities for implementation and describes the mechanisms to be used for monitoring and providing feedback to update the policy and planning process. The National Forest Plan is divided into eleven programmes which follow the key areas of action identified in the National Forest Policy Statement. Policy issues are discussed in the following sections of this document which describes the programmatic areas, objectives, and activities for their execution. For each activity, indicators are defined to assess progress with implementation. Stakeholders with lead responsibility and key roles, who would contribute to and participate in implementation, are also identified. Four approaches to implementation will be used:  action by the GFC through implementation of legislated responsibilities;  institutional and inter-agency collaboration such as government agencies and NGOs;  collaborative partnerships and agreements with specific entities/groups/governments such as FPA, GMSA, NTC, international governments and agencies.;  broad participation by interest groups where multi-stakeholder involvement is encouraged. The Commissioner of Forests is responsible for overall co-ordination and oversight of the execution of the National Forest Plan. The Commission will monitor implementation of the Plan and facilitate updates and revisions as necessary. Monitoring reports and Plan updates shall be circulated to stakeholders. 4 2. National Planning and Co-ordination The National Forest Policy provides a broad framework for sustainable forest management that embraces the goods and services which may be derived from Guyana’s forests. The responsibility for management of these goods and services lies within a number of agencies due to the multiple uses and users of the resources. Hence, the Policy identifies the importance of co-ordination and collaboration amongst these agencies. The first section of the Forest Plan therefore, deals with national level planning and co-ordination regarding the Forestry Sector. The objective is to develop a sustainable and productive forest sector, fully and effectively integrated into the national economy, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders. NFP100 National forest programme The National Forest Programme comprises a process of establishing policy guidelines and objectives, implementing these through the National Forest Plan, and obtaining feedback to inform policy review and update as the sector develops or as information on the sector improves. A National Forest Policy has been approved by Cabinet and draft legislation prepared. The National Forest Plan (this document) identifies programmes and activities required for policy implementation and the contribution required from sector interest groups and organisations. The GFC will monitor implementation and regularly update the Plan. There will be periodic reviews of policy issues which may require amendments to the Policy Statement and Plan over time. NFP110 National Forest Policy The Commissioner of Forests leads the process of articulating policy that governs the state forest estate. This formulation process includes broad participation of a wide range of interest groups. The Commissioner is responsible for promoting the policy and for obtaining feedback on policy issues. The Commissioner will ensure that there is co-ordination and collaboration with other initiatives that impact on the sector through participation at national and international committees and meetings. The Commission has responsibility for monitoring policy implementation and for providing information for periodic reviews of policy issues. Proposed changes to forest policy are referred to Government through the GFC Board, and other established communication channels. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 111 Publication and distribution of the revised national forest policy to stakeholders and the wider public. Improved public awareness of forest sector issues and objectives. Public awareness activities 112 Participation in national meetings and events of relevance to the development of the sector. Improved collaboration and co-ordination among sectors, agencies and stakeholders based on greater awareness of the complexity of issues. Participant Lists Meeting Reports 5 NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators affecting the forest sector. 113 Participation in international meetings and events. Improved international reputation. Learning from experience of other countries and overall capacity building. Meeting Reports Presentations delivered by GFC, and other sector attendees. 114 Monitoring and review of policy issues and objectives. Policy remains current with updates available. Periodic review and revisions of Policy documents Revision reports NFP120 Forest Legislation The GFC is responsible for developing legislation and regulations and making recommendations to Government through the Board. The GFC will also promote interest and understanding of the law by providing information on the legislation and by and preparing training and field manuals for use by staff, the industry, students and the public. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 121 Implementation of revised forest legislation. GFC’s Workplan reflects new Legislative thrust. Workplan of GFC Copies of new legislation 122 Preparation of new forest regulations. New Regulations enacted. Draft Bills/Acts approved 123 Publication and dissemination of information on legislation to sector and public. Public awareness campaign, manual for GFC staff and training courses. Public documents on legislation Dissemination lists NFP130 National Forest Plan The National Forest Plan outlines a medium term (5 year) plan for the sector that addresses Forest Policy issues and identifies roles and responsibilities of interest groups and institutions. Implementation of the plan will be co-ordinated and facilitated by the GFC. The Commission will monitor implementation and produce progress reports for the GFC Board. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 131 Preparation of revised National Forest Plan. Documentation prepared in accordance with National Forest Policy. National Forest Plan 132 Completion and publication of National Forest Plan. National Forest Plan available to all interest groups. Document publicly available on GFC’s website. 133 Monitoring of plan implementation and periodic review. Monitoring reports and updates of NFP available to interest groups. Reports of periodic NFP reviews 6 NFP200 Forest Classification The National Forest Policy identifies the need for the development of a National Land Use Policy and Plan and the importance of the National Land Use Committee as a forum for resolving land use conflicts, and the need for the forest sector to contribute information on resources, transactions, permits and applications. Moreover, the Policy recognises that the national land use planning is the mandate of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC). The GFC shall be responsible for providing information on forest types, forest classification and forest use; for conducting economic studies on the value of forest goods and services, and for preparing strategic plans for forest allocation and use. Forest management plans shall be used to assist co-ordination of the national land use planning process. NFP210 Forest Classification The Forest Resources Management Division of the Commission shall work on classification of forested areas in collaboration with the GL&SC and regional authorities. The outputs of this process will guide decisions on the allocation and use of resources and provide support to the drafting of a National Land Use Policy and Plan for Guyana by the GL&SC. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 211 Support classification of all forests by predominant and potential use for the National Land Use Policy and Plan. Classification of all forest areas and regular updates as information base improves. Archives of (pre and post) classification maps 212 Calculation of annual allowable harvests for concessions. Concession quota and Annual Allowable cuts determined and monitored. Methodology available for calculation. 213 Provision of information to the national land use committee to inform co ordination of land use planning. Information resources available and accessible. Documents/reports submitted to the national land use committee. 7 3. Forest Resource Management The National Forest Policy Statement establishes the principle that all forest resources must be managed in a sustainable manner and that social, economic and environmental benefits must be optimised. The Policy recognises the need for accurate and reliable information to inform planning, classification and allocation of forest resources. Allocation of forest resources for utilisation should be fair, transparent and competitive. The objective is to ensure that forest resources are sustainably managed to the highest practicable standards and that social, economic and environmental benefits are optimised. The needs and aspirations of all interest groups shall also be considered NFP300 Forest Resource Planning and Allocation Considerable information on forest resources, particularly the timber resource, is available from valuation and other surveys conducted by the Forestry Department since the 1920s. In the 1960s the FAO carried out detailed forest type mapping using aerial photographs and completed a low intensity field survey of forest areas. The GFC has used satellite imagery to identify forest types. More recently, a number of data sets have resulted from management level inventories and pre-harvest inventories which have been conducted on forest concessions. A national forest inventory combined with the use of geographic information systems (GIS) in mapping forest boundaries and determining area sizes is to be conducted. In addition, remote sensing technology will be employed to monitor forest areas in both the allocated and unallocated state forest estate. Information from these various sources needs to be compiled and data gap filled through a programme of field survey and inventory to update and refine the records. Special surveys will be required for non-timber forest resources and to identify non-extractive forest values including protection and conservation. Information will be used for more detailed planning of forest areas to determine and define appropriate forest operations and activities. Area plans will be prepared by the GFC in consultation with interest groups and forest management plans will be prepared by concession holders. All plans shall consider physical, social and economic factors and identify priorities for forest resource development and management in particular (and various) geographic areas. The Forest Policy requires that all commercial utilisation of State forests only occur under concessions or licences issued by the GFC and that allocation of the resource is made in a competitive, fair and transparent manner. Allocation must be based on the potential of the forest resource for sustainable use. All forms of agreements and the process through which concessions are allocated shall be reviewed periodically. NFP310 Forest Inventory The Forest Resources Management Division shall compile existing information on the resource and ensure it is accessible to the sector, and other interest groups and individuals. Priorities for further data collection shall be identified and pursued. 8 NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 311 Compilation and analysis of resource information. Definition and description of forest types. Resource information available to public 312 Mapping of forest types using various types of technology and methods. Extent and location of forest types defined. Updated forest type map 313 Implementation of a programme of field survey and inventory (to address data gaps). Refinement and update of forest type maps and descriptions. Forest Inventory used to inform forest resources planning NFP320 Concession Allocation The Forest Resources Management Division has responsibility for planning resource allocation and ensuring that areas are allocated for harvesting in accordance sustainable forest management guidelines regulated by the GFC. The Forest Resources Management Division and the Commissioner of Forests shall support these activities to ensure the allocation procedures match the national forest policy and that the process of allocation is transparent and acceptable to investors, and meets best practices. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 321 Review of concession and licence agreements in accordance with provisions of new Forest Act. Concession agreements reflecting policy and acceptable to investors. Publication of notices Standardized criteria established and upgraded 322 Continued implementation of procedures for allocation of licences (SFPs). License operations regulated in accordance with policy requirements. Public notices Evaluation and selection criteria 323 Continued implementation and Publication of concession allocation procedures. Public awareness and understanding of concession and license requirements. Public Notices Meeting reports NFP330 Forest Management Plans The GFC shall maintain and update a programme to bring all forest operations, including those on private and Amerindian lands, under forest management plans prepared in accordance with standard guidelines. The GFC shall provide technical support/guidance to assist the preparation of plans. Forest management planning for licenced areas (SFPs) shall be done by the GFC. The Forest Resources Management Division shall lead these activities which shall also include consultation with industry, communities and other interest groups. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 331 Continued implementation of guidelines for Forest Management Plans. Industry understanding and awareness of FMP purpose and requirements. Forest Management Plans that meet GFC’s requirements 9 NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 332 Support to implementation of relevant guidelines by concession holders and communities. Extension and advisory capability established within GFC. Meeting and field trip reports 333 Conduct relevant aspects of forest management planning for licenced areas. Licence operations in accordance with relevant FMP requirements. Public access to FMP guidelines Number of licenced operations 334 Continued implementation, and update systems to check and approve management plans. Administration of management plan process for all operations proceeding efficiently. Standardized criteria Review reports of evaluation criteria NFP400 Forest Operation Monitoring and Regulation The GFC has developed standards for timber harvesting operations and procedures for the monitoring of standards. These shall be refined as knowledge of forest ecology and dynamics improve. Standards shall be developed for the harvest and management of non-timber forest products. The GFC shall monitor forest operations to consider their environmental, ecological and social impacts. In the absence of standards and guidelines, the GFC shall apply precautionary principles to monitor and regulate forest operations. The Forest Policy provides for charges on the productive area of a concession and on the volume of forest produce harvested. The Policy also requires that revenue systems are based on an economic assessment of the costs and returns of forest management that ensures a fair return to both the investor and the State. The revenue system shall be periodically reviewed and improved so that it is simple to administer, while transparent and equitable to the investor and the State. NFP410 Codes of Practice The Forest Resources Management and Forest Monitoring Divisions shall lead activities to review and improve the current code of practice for timber harvesting and to develop codes for other forest operations. There will be consultation with industry and other sector interest groups. Compliance with Code provisions shall ultimately become a minimum requirement (and determinant) for certification of operations by the GFC. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 411 Implementation of prescriptions for sustainable management of forest types. SFM standards implemented and operational for all forest utilisation. Public access to standards GFC concession monitoring reports 412 Implementation of odes of practice for Harvesting operations and development of Codes for NTFPs and services to facilitate implementation of prescriptions. Public and industry awareness and implementation of operational standards. Public access to Codes Use of Codes by Operators 10 NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 413 Support national standards for certification based on codes of practice. Sector awareness of requirements for certification and international recognition of GoG initiatives. Consultation reports Access to standards NFP420 Monitoring of Forest Operations Procedures for monitoring of timber harvesting operations shall be implemented by concession holders and the GFC. Such procedures shall be upgraded to incorporate social criteria and indicators. Similar procedures will be developed for non-timber forest products. Monitoring activities shall be implemented by the Forest Monitoring Division with support from industry and government agencies based on regular and periodic schedules as sanctioned by the Commissioner of Forests. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 421 Implementation of concession monitoring and audit procedures. Industry compliance with Codes. Monitoring Reports Audit Reports 422 Monitoring and regulation of environmental, ecological and social impacts. Improved social and environmental awareness and performance. Monitoring Reports Stakeholder feedback 423 Monitoring operations to include small-scale operations. Small-scale operators comply with Codes. Monitoring reports 424 Development of a strategy to monitor and regulate commercial use of non-timber forest products. Code of Practice for commercial NTFP and services use implemented and enforced. Code of Practice Public access to documents NFP430 Forest Revenue The Forest Monitoring Division shall implement the Commission’s revenue system and shall develop systems to monitor and improve collection efficiency. The Planning and Development Division shall assist with continuous review and refinement of information on the economics of forest operations which shall inform periodic review of the revenue regime. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 431 Improvement of procedures for assessment and recording of forest produce. Accurate and timely information on forest utilisation available. Production reports Access to forest sector information 432 Studies to develop economic models for determining optimum revenue generation. Efficient use and allocation of forest resources. Revenue optimised for Govt. and investors. Study reports Evidence of application of studies in planning and revenue estimation 11 NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 433 Introduction of the new forest revenue system and ongoing review and refinement. Efficient and timely collection of forest revenue. Revised forest revenue documents Evidence of implementation of revised system 434 Monitoring of revenue system to ensure compliance and collection efficiency. Inefficiencies identified and corrected. Revenue targets achieved. Revenue collection reports Compliance monitoring reports 12 4. Forest Industry The Forest Policy emphasises the importance of a financially and economically viable forest industry and establishes the principle that the number and type of forest-based industries shall be consistent with the capacity of the forests for sustainable management. The Policy recommends measures, including market development and promotion, to encourage value added processing and to maximise national benefits from the use of forest resources. Non-timber forest produce and non-use forest values are to be expanded and promoted. The objective is to promote the growth of an efficient and competitive forest industry, optimising the benefits from sustainable harvesting of both timber and NTFPs and services, conversion and further processing of forest resources for national markets, and competing effectively in international markets. NFP500 Forest Industry Investment The Guyana Forestry Commission has a responsibility to assist the development of the forest industry and will support the private sector to conduct studies and develop schemes to broaden the range of species utilised, minimise waste and maximise the return from all produce harvested. The GFC has established a Planning and Development Division responsible for monitoring national and international trends in the sector and providing information as a service to the public. The Division work with the FPDMC in conducting conduct market and economic studies and make recommendations on policies and other initiatives to encourage investment in forest products processing. The Division will collaborate with the FPDMC in regard to market research, analysis and promotion. The Forest Policy requires planning for forest industry development to ensure that the scale of operations is consistent with the sustainable supply of products from the forest resource. Licences will only be issued which are appropriate for the type and quantity of resource available on a sustainable basis. Licences will be required by all investors who will be required to submit forest industry development plans as part of their application. Portable sawmills and chainsaw lumbering are important components of the forest industry in Guyana particularly in many hinterland communities. In order to maintain fair competition within the industry, the GFC will be responsible for regulating both types of operation and ensuring that acceptable working standards are maintained in the forest and during the conversion process. NFP510 Forest Industry Investment The Planning and Development Division will maintain and analyse information on the forest sector. The Division will work with the industry, FPDMC and GOINVEST, as well as other parties, to promote new investment in the sector. Operational standards and licensing of processing facilities will be the responsibility of the Forest Monitoring Division. NFP Activities Expected Outcome Indicators 511 Monitoring of national and international economic trends in the sector. Enhanced information access on key areas. Information on the sector available to all interest groups 512 Promotion of investment with emphasis on improved technology and Increased investment opportunities. Promotional material and advisory services available for 13 NFP Activities Expected Outcome Indicators exports. potential investors 513 Studies and recommendations on fiscal and other initiatives to encourage value added processing. Support provided to forest industry on forest incentives. Govt. policies encouraging appropriate sector investment 514 Development of standards and regulations for primary processing facilities including portable mills. Enhanced efficiency and quality of forest products. More efficient resource utilisation and improved quality and safety standards 515 Implementation of procedures for licensing of industry operations. Consistently applied operational standards for licensing. Improved operational standards NFP600 Forest Products Marketing Focus has been placed on improved marketing of Guyana’s forest products internationally as it is essential to support a viable forest industry. To this end, the Guyana Forestry Commission in association with the Forest Products Association, Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association and others, is promoting the export trade and supporting this through research and development aimed at both processing and marketing, and offering training and extension programmes. Forest Products Marketing is being promoted through the Forest Products development and Marketing Council (FPDMC). The Council focuses on providing market advisories and industry development services for the forest sector and addresses among other areas, the provision of market intelligence, international reporting, and the facilitation of marketing linkages for the industry. Improving and maintaining good product quality are key elements of a market development strategy. Standards for forest products are being defined and upgraded to levels that are attainable by the forest industry and are of value to buyers. The GFC shall maintain its responsibility for developing and promoting standards and grading rules for forest products. The FPDMC shall to provide technical and promotional material, undertake market research and promotion and provide advice to producers. A marketing strategy will include product research and promotion, market research and the identification and development of niche markets for specialist products. NFP610 Grading Rules for Timber and Non-Timber Forest Products The Commission will work with industry and with the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) to develop and introduce appropriate product standards and specifications. Grading rules would also be enhanced to ensure acceptability both domestically and internationally. 14 NFP Activities Expected Outcome Indicators 611 Use of standard nomenclature, sizes and specifications for forest products. Uniform reporting of forest statistics to international standards. Industry and public awareness of standards and specifications 612 Review and development of domestic and international timber grading rules. Consistency of local grading standard to international practice. Revised Grading Standards 613 Implementation of grading rules and standards through training and publicity. Enhanced knowledge and effective implementation of new grading rules. Monitoring Reports and Grading Inspection Reports NFP620 Marketing strategy for timber and non-timber products The FPDMC shall co-ordinate the development and implementation of a marketing strategy in collaboration with the PDD, and will contract specialist inputs as required. The industry will be consulted as they are the major end users of outputs of the strategy. NFP Activities Expected Outcome Indicators 621 International and domestic market surveys and studies. Enhanced public access to information. Baseline data on markets available to sector 622 Product research and market promotion activities. Market promotion efforts further developed. Technical information and promotional material available on forest products 623 Research into niche markets including markets for relatively abundant lesser known species. Expanded niche markets access and expanded lesser use species utilization. Market opportunities for new forest products 15 5. Research and information The National Forest Policy Statement promotes appropriate research into all aspects of forestry and forestry related activities including physical, biological, ecological, economic, social and cultural aspects. The Policy establishes the Guyana Forestry Commission as the national institution responsible for facilitating, co-ordinating and promoting the conduct of forest research locally, and for disseminating knowledge and information on all aspects of forestry. The Policy also recognises the importance of working in partnership/collaborating with a number of research partners and research intuitions to fulfil the research mandate of the Commission. The objective is to produce and disseminate essential information and technology related to the forest and its social, economic and biological environment that is needed to implement the national forest policy. NFP700 Forest Research The National Forest Policy requires the promotion of appropriate research on all aspects of forestry. It acknowledges that a range of research partners and research institutions should be involved in the conduct of research, with the Guyana Forestry Commission providing a focal point to guide and co ordinate research and undertake collaborative activities. Dissemination of research findings, along with information on all aspects of forestry is the responsibility of the Guyana Forestry Commission. Research activities shall encompass social, economic and environmental research as well as more traditional silviculture and ecology, and will cover plantations and agro-forestry as well as natural forest. Research that targets the needs of Guyana’s LCDS and REDD+ and ES shall be promoted. NFP710 Forest Research The GFC will co-ordinate preparation of a forest research plan by review and analysis of past research activities and through a process of consultation. The plan shall identify national research priorities and will be used to co-ordinate inputs from research organisations and the private sector. The Forest Resources Management Division shall be the focal point for the GFC for coordinating research initiatives with relevant partners.. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 711 Preparation of a forest research plan. Priorities for forest research identified. Forest research plan available to public 712 Coordination of research initiatives with relevant partners. Improved coordination among GFC and relevant research partners. GFC and relevant partners Coordinating mechanism developed 713 Coordinate the functions of a central repository of research conducted in the forest sector. Library on forest research expanded. Forestry research available to the public 714 Execute the function as the official disseminator and source of forest related research materials for Guyana. Information sharing and dissemination conducted locally, regionally and internationally. Forestry research available to the public 16 NFP800 Forest Sector Information There are considerable information resources within the GFC and with industry and other sector agencies. Resources will be compiled and updated and systems developed to improve access by stakeholders and interest groups. Information will be disseminated, training material will be developed and publicity and public relations programmes developed. NFP810 Forest Sector Information The Human Resources and Administration Division has responsibility for the library which will be the focal point for information resources and services. The Planning and Development, and Finance and MIS Divisions will provide support including the development in relevant areas. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 811 Continued co ordination of library facilities. Comprehensive collection of literature and other media. Library usage as recorded by number of visitors/readers 812 Development and co-ordination of information resources including databases, maps etc. GFC information systems established with procedures for providing access to information and services. Information available and report on numbers accessing 813 Information and publicity programmes. Improved public awareness and understanding of forest sector issues. Number of schools visited, and events attended 17 6. Education and Training The National Forest Policy emphasises the importance of education and training in forestry and forestry-related disciplines at all levels and identifies the need for a co-ordinated and integrated programme of training at all levels, including skills and operator training. The Policy also recognises the work of the Forestry Training Centre Inc. (FTCI), which is an autonomous arm of the GFC that provides critical theoretical and practical exposure to stakeholders on reduced impact logging (RIL), road building, forestry inventory and other key components of sustainable forest management. Opportunities shall be provided for personnel working in the sector to upgrade skills by providing short courses, training modules and lectures at all levels. Education and training activities shall provide equality of opportunity for all groups. Foreign funded projects and programmes in the sector shall be encouraged to include a training component. In-service training for personnel currently working in the sector is a priority. The objective is to satisfy sector requirements for properly skilled, trained and educated forestry personnel by providing high quality courses and programmes at all levels. NFP900 Forest Sector Education and Training The Guyana School of Agriculture, the University of Guyana, and the FTCI are responsible for addressing sector needs for formal education and training at the certificate, diploma, degree and vocational levels. The GFC shall play a lead role in addressing vocational training needs through the FTCI. The Human Resources and Management Division shall take responsibility for promoting training within the industry and for extension activities. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 911 Promotion of training and capacity building for the forest industry. Improved number of trained Guyanese within the forest sector. Promotion and support provided to industry training 912 Provision of vocational training courses for the sector. Courses meeting sector requirements. Report on courses offered and numbers of trainees 913 Development of training opportunities for hinterland communities in collaboration with relevant partners. Training needs identified and courses developed. Number of courses developed and offered 914 Support the development of national standards for forestry education and training. Improved quality of training and recognition of graduates. Collaborative activities and standards for training and development 915 Support the provision of formal training at certificate, diploma and degree levels. Courses meeting sector requirements. Number of courses and participants 18 7. Social Development The Forest Policy recognises the important social benefits that derive from forests, and requires that the GFC manages the forest resource to maximise benefits for all Guyanese. A diagnostic study carried out for the GFC in 2000, identified social issues and outlined an approach to social development for the forest sector. The study recognised that any social development programme could not be the exclusive undertaking of the GFC, and recommended that the Commission should serve as a contributor and facilitator for a multi-disciplinary and inter-agency collaborative approach. The GFC’s Community Forestry Programme which fosters community development has been a key success area for the Commission’s work over the past ten years. Fifty four (54) community forestry associations currently function in close collaboration with the GFC and collectively have been issued eighty-one (81) State Forest Permissions across the forest estate. In some cases, these are additional to titled Amerindian lands already held by some communities. The GFC provides support to small and mid-sized entities through the community forestry programme in areas of governance, financial management, organization support, sustainable forest management, academic vocational training, and also in the provision/access to resources and other capacity-building support. A National Steering Committee of Community Forestry Organisations was established in 2011 as the broad representative group for all small and medium scale forest associations nationwide. The objective of the Social Development Programme is to contribute to the effective realisation of social responsibilities, satisfaction of social needs and attainment of social benefits by stakeholders in the forestry sector. NFP1000 Social Development Programme The Community Liaison Committee which comprises membership from Government ministries and departments responsible for Amerindian Affairs, labour, health, social services and local government, conducts outreach visits to communities to identify and address specific social issues and problems in forest-dependent communities. The GFC shall maintain a lead role in facilitating the activities of the Committee and will provide support to further develop its operations and capabilities The Community Liaison Committee shall work with the National Steering Committee of Community Forestry Organisations and other partners to participate and take the lead on specific community based projects such as enhancing the resource capacity of communities to implement SFM of resources and to provide opportunities for community development. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 1011 Establishment of national liaison committee with key agencies. Committee effectively co-ordinating programme of community based activities addressing identified social issues and problems. Committee reports Social problems addressed 1012 Outreach and monitoring visits to communities. Monitoring programme developed and being implemented with full participation of committee members. Monitoring reports Participant lists 1013 Outreach programme to forest based communities. Outreach programme developed and being implemented with full participation of committee members. Outreach reports 19 8. Linkages The National Forest Policy promotes collaboration between the GFC and a number of the organisations that have legislation, regulations, guidelines which are complimentary to the mandate of the Commission. Among the entities with which GFC shall collaborate are the Office of Climate Change, Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency. The Policy recognises the Commission’s role in the implementation (partial or whole) of:  the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of Guyana and the Kingdom of Norway signed on November 9, 2009;  Guyana’s Readiness Preparation Proposal (R-PP);  The National Biodiversity Action Plan II (NBAP II);and  Mangrove Management Action Plan. NFP Activities Expected Outcomes Indicators 1101 Implementation of MOU between the Government of Guyana and the Kingdom of Norway. Continued partnership between Guyana and Norway on issues of climate change, biodiversity and sustainable, low carbon development. Progress Reports Technical Reports 1102 Implementation of the R-PP. REDD-plus readiness package for Guyana including: a Reference Scenario; a Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) system; a number of REDD-plus strategies to be implemented; a conducive strategic/ policy framework; and a continued Consultation/Participation Plan. Technical reports 1103 Support implementation of NBAP II. Development of planning and operational guidelines for synergistic utilisation of natural resources in the State Forests. Operational guidelines for synergistic utilisation of natural resources in the State Forests 1104 Support implementation of Mangrove Management Action Plan. Mapping and inventory of the mangrove forest Improved number of GFC personnel trained in monitoring and reporting on mangrove activities along the sea defence. Map and inventory of mangrove forest Number of trained GFC personnel in monitoring and reporting on mangrove activities 20 Summary of Programmes NFP100 National forest programme Implementation of forest policy, legislation and sector plans, monitoring and evaluation of implementation and feedback to inform reviews and updates. NFP200 Forest classification Preparation of forest resource information and development of procedures to ensure that forest allocation and use is integrated and co-ordinated with national land use planning and land use conflicts are managed or resolved. NFP300 Forest resource planning and allocation Continued implementation of fair and transparent procedures for the allocation of forest resources and preparation of forest resource management plans using the best information available on resource capabilities and potential. NFP400 Forest operation monitoring and regulation Establishment, monitoring and enforcement of working standards and guidelines which allow appropriate returns to operators whilst maintaining the ecological functions, ecosystem integrity and sustainability of the resource. NFP500 Forest industry investment Continued implementation of guidelines and provision of support to attract investment in the forest sector that is consistent with the capacity of the forest resource base. NFP600 Forest products marketing Promotion of improved marketing through research, provision of market information and expertise and the development of quality standards for forest products. NFP700 Forest research Effective utilisation of human and other resources to coordinate priority forest research activities and critical problem areas. NFP800 Forest sector information Promotion of awareness, understanding and appreciation of forestry issues and forest values by dissemination of knowledge and information. NFP900 Forest sector education and training Development of training capacity and improvement of delivery to provide forest sector personnel skilled, trained and educated to nationally recognised standards. NFP1000 Social development programme Development of partnerships to deliver social services to communities and to monitor and regulate the social impacts of forest operations. 21 Summary of Activities NFP 110 National Forest Policy 111 Publication and distribution of the revised national forest policy to stakeholders and the wider public. 112 Participation in national meetings and events of relevance to the development of the sector. 113 Participation in international meetings and events. 114 Monitoring and review of policy issues and objectives. NFP 120 Forest legislation 121 Submission of revised forest legislation. 122 Preparation of new forest regulations. 123 Publication and dissemination of information on legislation to sector and public. NFP 130 National Forest Plan 131 Preparation of revised National Forest Plan. 132 Completion and publication of National Forest Plan. 133 Monitoring of plan implementation and periodic review. NFP 210 Forest classification 211 Support classification of all forests by predominant and potential use for the National Land Use Policy and Plan. 212 Calculation of annual allowable harvests for concessions. 213 Provision of information to the national land use committee to inform co-ordination of land use planning. NFP 310 Forest inventory 311 Compilation and analysis of resource information. 312 Mapping of forest types using various types of technology and methods. 313 Implementation of a programme of field survey and inventory (to address data gaps). NFP 320 Concession allocation 321 Review of concession and licence agreements in accordance with provisions of new Forest Act. 322 Continued implementation of procedures for allocation of licences (SFPs). 323 Continued implementation and Publication of concession allocation procedures. NFP 330 Forest Management Plans 331 Continued implementation of guidelines for Forest Management Plans. 332 Support to implementation of relevant guidelines by concession holders and communities. 333 Conduct relevant aspects of forest management planning for licenced areas. 22 Summary of Activities 334 Continued implementation, and update systems to check and approve management plans. NFP 410 Codes of Practice 411 Implementation of prescriptions for sustainable management of forest types. 412 Implementation of odes of practice for Harvesting operations and development of Codes for NTFPs and services to facilitate implementation of prescriptions. 413 Support national standards for certification based on codes of practice. NFP 420 Monitoring of forest operations 421 Implementation of concession monitoring and audit procedures. 422 Monitoring and regulation of environmental, ecological and social impacts. 423 Monitoring operations to include small-scale operations. 424 Development of a strategy to monitor and regulate commercial use of non-timber forest products. NFP 430 Forest revenue 431 Improvement of procedures for assessment and recording of forest produce. 432 Studies to develop economic models for determining optimum revenue generation. 433 Introduction of the new forest revenue system and ongoing review and refinement. 434 Monitoring of revenue system to ensure compliance and collection efficiency. NFP 510 Forest industry investment 511 Monitoring of national and international economic trends in the sector. 512 Promotion of investment with emphasis on improved technology and exports. 513 Studies and recommendations on fiscal and other initiatives to encourage value added processing. 514 Development of standards and regulations for primary processing facilities including portable mills. 515 Implementation of procedures for licensing of industry operations. NFP 610 Grading rules for timber and non-timber products 611 Use of standard nomenclature, sizes and specifications for forest products. 612 Review and development of domestic and international timber grading rules. 613 Implementation of grading rules and standards through training and publicity. NFP 620 Marketing strategy for timber and non-timber products 621 International and domestic market surveys and studies. 622 Product research and market promotion activities. 623 Research into niche markets including markets for relatively abundant lesser known species. 23 Summary of Activities NFP 710 Forest research 711 Preparation of a forest research plan. 712 Coordination of research initiatives with relevant parties. 712 Coordinate the functions of a central repository of research conducted in the forest sector. 713 Execute the function as the official disseminator and source of forest related research materials for Guyana. NFP 810 Forest sector information 811 Continued co-ordination of library facilities. 812 Development and co-ordination of information resources including databases and maps. 813 Information and publicity programmes. NFP 910 Forest sector education and training 911 Promotion of training and capacity building by the forest industry. 912 Provision of vocational training courses for the sector. 913 Development of training opportunities for hinterland communities in collaboration with relevant partners. 914 Support the development of national standards for forestry education and training. 915 Support the provision of formal training at certificate, diploma and degree levels. NFP 1010 Social development programme 1011 Establishment of a national liaison committee with key agencies. 1012 Outreach and monitoring visits to communities. 1013 Outreach programme to forest based communities. NFP 1100 Linkages 1101 Implementation of MOU between the Government of Guyana and the Kingdom of Norway. 1102 Implementation of the R-PP. 1103 Support implementation of NBAP II. 1104 Support implementation of Mangrove Management Action Plan.