Land-use encroachment is the leading cause of new conversion. In addition fires, often set by shifting cultivators and other forest dwellers, are a major cause of forest degradation and impede regeneration of woody plants causing erosion and drought. Public fire prevention education in Cambodia address the main causes of careless fire starts, e.g. the use of fire underneath dipterocarp trees to stimulate resin yield, hunting, and cigarette smoking. Forest Fire in Cambodia Fire, though not widespread and considered not a serious threat to the forests of Cambodia, could become a threat if the degradation continues at the current rate creating favourable conditions for large-scale forest fire. Fires occur annually in the natural hardwood forests, pine forests, bamboo forests and forest plantations during summer months.
Fire occur frequently in the deciduous, pine and bamboo forests during the dry season.
In addition the leaf shed opens the ground surface to a greater sun exposure leading to condition conducive to a high degree of fire hazard. Posters displayed at local markets, in museums, trade fairs and along heavily travelled roads and trails are often effective ways to convey fire prevention messages to the public. Conclusions Forest and Land Fire in Cambodia are not a serious threat to the forest area, but it occurs every year and damages many hectares of forest area. Beside the lack of expertise, funding and equipment for assisting suppression fire it is a matter of fact that a lot of these fires could be prevented by an enhanced knowledge of the value of the forest by the local community. Eang Savet Forestry Officer Department of Forestry and Wildlife 40 Preah Norodom Blvd.