The Economic Value of Calliandra calothyrsus in Watershed Rehabilitation in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, Philippines

This study analyzed the economic value of Calliandra calothyrsus Meissn. as a pioneer species in watershed rehabilitation using benefit-cost analysis (BCA). A cashflow was developed and using the 15% discount rate, the net present value (NPV) and benefit cost ratio (BCR) were computed. Planting C. calothyrsus as pioneer species is financially feasible having a positive NPV of PhP202,090 ha-1 and a BCR of 14 at 12 years rotation. Following the natural order of succession, benefits derived from planting pioneer species, in this case C. calothyrsus, include reduced labor cost for weeding while attaining benefits like fuelwood, honey and fodder production and environmental services like carbon sequestration. C. calothyrsus was used to shade out grasses and weeds, diminish fire hazard, and facilitate colonization of the site by a wider range of species through planting of desired premium species like dipterocarps to accelerate rehabilitation. Rehabilitation of degraded landscapes could accelerate forest succession using pioneer species to create favorable environment for late successional species, and ensure survival with positive contribution to ecosystem services.