This paper applies a spatial economic regression model to analyze the relation between deforestation in the period from 1989 to 1994 and access to roads and markets, ecological conditions, land tenure, and zoning policies in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. The data come from a Geographic Information System (GIS) data base compiled by the Natural Resources Department of the Santa Cruz Government. Locations closer to roads and the City of Santa Cruz and that have more fertile soils have a greater probability of being deforested. The same applies to colonization areas. National parks and forest concessions seem to protect forests. Areas with rainfall levels optimal for soybeans have higher deforestation than drier or wetter areas.
Publication year
2002
Authors
Kaimowitz, D.; Mendez, P.; Puntodewo, A.; Vanclay, J.K.
Language
English
Keywords
roads, spatial analysis, economic analysis, geographical information systems, deforestation, markets, tenure systems, policy
Geographic
Bolivia
