The goal of FAO's work in forestry extension is to promote problem-solving, participatory and pluralistic approaches to sustainable forest management and land use. The objective is to facilitate the development of effective and efficient forestry extension programmes and systems at the local and national level through field activities, conceptual development and information sharing. The approach recognizes that extension takes place in a range of social and institutional settings and that while the principles of good extension are fairly well known, there is no single model or method that is universally applicable.
Intersectoral linkages are also important for effective forestry extension.
Regional focus Regional workshops, improved networking and training of trainers support the process of developing sustainable forestry extension systems. A study on how forest services can assist and advise small forest owners is under way and may lead to workshops, training programmes and other activities with a range of partners. A series of case studies is under development, and a workshop is planned for the near future. Southern Africa has similar needs. Within this group of countries there is a high level of commitment and understanding of the role of local people and communities in natural resource management.