• Ghimire, Pramod
• Basnet, Ritesh Bhushan
• Gautam, Jeetendra
• Shapkota, Jun

Abstract

<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>This study has explored the value chain of <jats:italic>Alnus nepalensis</jats:italic> (Utis) of Tehrathum district which has become an important timber product since last two decades. Two case studies were selected each from the 6 subdivision forest offices of Tehrathum district. Data were collected through combination of social survey methods and mixed method research involving participatory techniques, questionnaire surveys, and on- site observations. Participatory Rural Appraisal and questionnaire tools were used in data collection. The data were grouped as observational data and presentational data. The Focal Group Discussion and Key Informants Interviews were conducted following purposeful sampling. The data obtained were analyzed qualitatively and the breakdown of timber and its subsequent prices were done quantitatively. SWOT analysis was employed for the analysis of value chain. From this study it was found that the pricing of trees was affected by three variables: location, access, and distance to destination. Conversion of trees to logs required more investment than the price of trees itself, which amounted to around NRs 130 million. In a year between 2021 mid-April to 2022 mid-April, 37,912 <jats:italic>Alnus nepalensis</jats:italic> trees were sold to plywood and veneer industries with a volume of 15,37,686.95 cubic foot. Value Added Tax was NRs 49,974,826/- collected at Tehrathum district. Approximately NRs 240 million was injected to the rural economy by the <jats:italic>Alnus nepalensis</jats:italic> trade. Sincere efforts are needed towards strategic, tactical, operational, and structural overhaul in the ways private forests are being operated.</jats:p>

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