4. Proposed Improvements for National Forestry Statistics
The existing methods of data collection, processing and dissemination can be improved by instituting the following measures:
Licensing of sawmills and chainsaws
Keeping of records by sawmillers and licensees
Mandatory cut and removal permits for trees
Establishment of check points
Authority of forest officer to request information from sawmillers and licensees
Permit to transport chainsaws on forest reserves
Establishment of forest research trials
Upgrade of staff and equipment at the Forestry Department with increased budget
Have forestry related information readily available and/or published
Some of these measures will be implemented as part of the Government's new Forest Regulations. The Regulations will be enforced in the year 2001.
With a co-ordinated effort from foresters and forest wardens, environmental wardens from the NRCA, the police, environmental NGO’s, communities' local forestry management groups, and others related agencies, implementation of these measures can be achieved.