The loss of tropical moist forest (TMF) is recognized as a major environmental problem globally and particularly in the West Africa sub-region. The causes of TMF loss vary across the globe and regionally-specific processes of loss exist. The role of some causes of forest loss (e.g. cattle ranching or logging) have been widely studied, and are relatively clearly understood. However, the specific
... [Show full abstract] contribution of other causes, particularly the role of smallholder forest farmers, is less well known and has been a subject of controversy and confusion. This paper explores the contextual causes (at the household level) of TMF loss around the Cross River National Park in south-east Nigeria. Local agricultural practices and household decision-making are linked to the wider political economy to explain the observed patterns of forest loss in the study area. By focusing on the household and the dynamics of forest farming at a household level, this paper reinforces the need for an alternative perspective on the role of small farmers in TMF loss in West Africa to that revealed by existing extensive studies of the region.
