Evaluation of the production and collection of plum (Prunus divaricata Ledeb.) fruit and its role on forest dwellers income (Case study: Rudsar, Gilan province)

Non-wood forest products (NWFPs) play a main role in rural household’s economy directly and indirectly. In developing countries, livelihood of 600 million people depends on these products. NWFPs are important in increasing income and improving the economic situation of rural areas with high forest density. The aim of this research was to estimate the amount of production, collection, role of plum fruit in household’s income at Rudsar county of Guilan province. In order to estimating of fruit production, inventory was done systematically- randomly with 30 sample plots of one hectare (with dimensions of 100 by 100 meters) each. To estimate the collection and contribution of NWFPs in total household income, 120 households was censed at three villages by the semi-structured interviews and direct observations in summer 2015. The correlation analysis between tree traits and fruit production showed that diameter at breast height (DBH) had a high and significant correlation (0.64) with fruit production. The mean fruit production was about 8.5 kg per tree. Average tree density was 13 tree per ha. Total fruit collection and annual average collection by households was 3500 kg and 29 kg, respectively. Net annual household income from fruit harvested varied from 500 to 2600 thousand Rials. The fruit collection creates employment for 11 person’s day per year. We conclude that income of fruit collection is not much and we can increase it by much processing and market expansion.