The Contribution of Community Based Forest Management to Livelihood and Rural Economy: the Case of Hutan Nagari Sungai Buluh in Padang Pariaman

Based on Minister of Environment and Forests No. P.83 About Social Forestry, which is “to reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality management / utilization of forest areas, it is necessary Social Forestry activities through efforts to provide legal access to the local communities that aim for social welfare and forest resources”. Forests not only provide the advantage of conservation for the environment, but also forests can provide economic benefits to local communities. Not only wood, fruits, honey or the other forest products that can be utilized. However, forests can also be utilized in terms of its environmental services, namely as a carbon sink, hydrological function, as well as in terms of natural beauty (ecotourism). The research was conducted at the Forest Nagari Sungai Buluh, Padang Pariaman District, West Sumatra Province with aim to know economic and social impact of community based forest management. The method used is a combination of quantitative and qualitative approach using questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Based on research that has been done, it appears that the utilization of forest environmental services into eco-tourism provides economic contribution to communities living around the forest and to improve of rural economy. Society no longer perform encroachment, however people can still benefit from these forests are of ecotourism