Logging and sawing of timber using conventional tools by unskilled workers causes enormous damage to the valuable timber, residual stand, regeneration, and forest soil in Nepal. The purpose of this study was to find out the volume reduction factor and identify major strategies to reduce timber losses in the tree harvesting process in the Terai Shorea robusta forest of Nepal. Field measurements and product flow analysis of 51 felled trees from felling coupes and randomly selected 167 sawed logs were examined to study harvesting losses. Responses from 116 forest experts were analyzed to explore strategies for reducing harvesting and processing losses. The results showed that timber losses in the felling and bucking stage with and without stem rot were 23% and 22%, respectively. Similarly, timber losses in the sawing stage with and without stem rot were 31% and 30%, respectively. Paired t-test at 5% level of significance revealed that there was significant loss in both tree felling and log sawing stages with present harvesting practice. The most leading factor contributing to timber loss in all of the three stages was the use of inappropriate equipment during tree harvesting. Use of synthetic ropes for directional felling and skidding as well as flexible and portable sawing machine with size adjustment options during sawing were mainly recommended as strategies to reduce timber losses. This study serves as a baseline study to identify and quantify timber losses in different stages of tree conversion and also formulate their reduction strategies in Nepal.

Global forests, valued at over USD 150 trillion and supporting the livelihoods of 25% of the world’s population, are threatened by degradation and deforestation, particularly in developing nations. Several forest management systems are in practice, but leasehold forestry (LF) is considered the best for achieving the dual goals of preventing degradation and alleviating poverty. Nepal is a pioneer in LF, prioritizing it since 1978. It is now practiced in 39 districts, covering 43,994 hectares of forests. Using DFID’s sustainable livelihood assessment guidelines (a framework never before applied to LF) and incorporating seven additional indicators identified through extensive literature review and expert consultation, as well as semi-structured interviews with key informants (n = 14) and LF users (n = 228), this study quantifies the contribution of LF in Nepal to 5 core assets and 21 livelihood indicators across three categories: “successful”, “moderately successful”, and “not successful”. The results reveal that LF significantly contributes to natural and financial capital, with a lesser impact on social and physical capital. Among the key indicators, LF has the greatest influence on savings and investment, but the least on infrastructure. This study offers targeted lessons and recommendations for less successful LF initiatives, which can help improve their outcomes. These insights are also valuable for policymakers and stakeholders to refine policies and programs and to optimize livelihood and restoration benefits from LF. Additionally, the baseline data provided will serve as a reference for monitoring and evaluating LF initiatives.