Rediscovering Our Minor Forest Products

WHEN WE TALK about forests, it is most certain that timber and wood products would come into our minds.

- Julio P. Yap, Jr.

 

Maybe, some of us would not even consider that over-exploitation and conversion of our forests to other purposes have already resulted in the rapid depletion of the country’s forest resources, including non-timber forest products (NTFPs) like rattan, bamboo, bark, nipa, flowering plants, ferns, orchids, vines and many other forest growth.

Unfortunately, NTFPs are often classified and referred to as “minor forest products” which are most likely neglected or forgotten.

Among the non-timber forest products that is getting lesser and lesser attention are the different kinds of forest vines.

But forest vines are among the best sources of raw materials for the production of handicraft and other hand-made novelty items.

These lowly vines are also important sources of materials for the construction of low-cost housing, preparation of food and beverage products, clothing materials, medicine, and other goods, particularly in the rural areas.

The gathering and utilization of forest vines can also provide an additional income for the marginal farmers and those living in the upland areas.

With its long yet flexible stems, forest vines are very suitable for the production of handicrafts and other hand-made items.

These herbaceous or woody plants have roots anchored to the ground and the rest of its body can climb without support on the branches of trees.

Forest vines usually cling to trees and other plants for mechanical support and position themselves to capture light.

Forest vines are considerably abundant in the forests, making our country the second largest world producer of handicrafts.